A Walkable Community
MOVE TO THE VILLAGE AND ENJOY DAILY STROLLS THROUGH OUR BEAUTIFUL STREETS
Ben Jonson was not necessarily referring to streets when he penned, “in small proportions we just beauties see,” but the observation certainly suits The Village and the careful design of its streets.
Inspired by the inviting tree-lined streets of the Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake, the streets in The Village are narrow with gentle curves and include sidewalks on both sides. This crucial combination has the wonderful result of calming traffic to a more civilized pace, providing a safe pedestrian environment.
Unlike suburbia where excessively wide and straight streets encourage speeding, The Village streets are smaller, designed as equitable passages for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. This creates an overall safer environment for families with children.
To improve the walkability of the neighbourhood, a series of public pathways have been constructed throughout The Village. These “secondary” sidewalks meander between houses, into The Village Centre and along the ravine. Affectionately named for renowned architect Leon Krier, who designed them for Seaside in Florida, “Krier Walks” are public spaces for everyone to enjoy.
The unique design and feel of the streets in The Village reflects a return to the era when cars didn’t control the design of our towns, when communities were built closely enough together that people – especially children and elderly people – could walk to most places in safety, and when places to work, learn, and play were all within walking distance.
In The Village, you can leave your car at home. Whether you’re on your way to see a friend or visit The Village Centre, you’ll need nothing more than a bike or your own two feet to get where you need to go.