A citizen-led initiative to close James Street North to traffic for the remainder of the coronavirus pandemic has received heavy pushback from Hamilton city councillors.
Residents who have put their signature to the 140-name petition say the temporary closure would open up the street to walkers and cyclists and support their physical-distancing efforts.
Many elected officials, however, believe the impact would be the exact opposite by creating a gathering or destination place. [ Sign up for our Health IQ newsletter for the latest coronavirus updates ] Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger says setting up space for more activity would draw “more rollerbladers, skateboarders, cyclists and walkers that are going to congregate to that location, which