The construction of the three-metre security fence for this week’s G20 summit meetings is essentially complete.
After overnight intersection closures on Sunday, 95% of the fence is standing, according to Sergent Tim Burrows of the Toronto police traffic services unit.
Monday marks the first day of checkpoints around the fence. Drivers should expect traffic delays, especially in areas where the fence is actually on the road, such as Wellington St. and Bay St., to be comparable to what they have already been experiencing, said Sgt. Burrows.
The remaining 5% of fencing will close roadways during the planned lock-down this Friday. Traffic services will be updating the public as changes occur.
Police are urging people to use public transportation and avoid downtown Toronto altogether if possible this weekend.
“If you have to drive, we suggest that you plan a route that goes well around the security perimeter,” said Sgt. Burrows. “The closer you are to that perimeter, the more traffic impact you’re going to experience.”
One additional bit of bad news for drivers — parking downtown will be off-limits except for those who have monthly permits.
Construction of the security fence for the June 26 – 27 summit has been ongoing since June 7.
It won’t take another two weeks to disappear.
“They always come down faster than they come up,” said Sgt. Burrows.
Comments
Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.