News

Toronto considers pilot project to allow alcohol consumption in 20 parks

image.jpg-1.17774757 FILE -- Park visitors soak up the sun in Toronto on Saturday, May 23, 2020. Warm weather and a reduction in COVID-19 restrictions has many looking to the outdoors for relief. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn (FILE -- Park visitors soak up the sun in Toronto on Saturday, May 23, 2020. Warm weather and a reduction in COVID-19 restrictions has many looking to the outdoors for relief. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn)

Published: 

Toronto residents could be allowed to consume alcohol in 20 parks in the coming months if city council approves a proposed pilot program

Toronto residents could be allowed to consume alcohol in 20 parks in the coming months if city council approves a proposed pilot program.

Next week, a city committee will be considering the program proposed by municipal staff, with recommendations then going to city council for consideration next month.

If approved, the pilot program would allow those 19 and older to drink alcohol between Aug. 2 and Oct. 9 in the 20 selected parks.

The city says parks were selected in consultation with local city councillors.

They include Queen's Park, Trinity Bellwoods Park and Corktown Common in downtown Toronto, along with Milliken Park and Neilson Park in the east-end area of Scarborough, as well as Riverdale Park East, Eglinton Park and Dufferin Grove Park.

City officials say the proposed program is based on "public health guidance, public safety and operational considerations and the experiences of other Canadian cities."