When all is said and done, the total cost of a project to extend the sidewalks in select areas of St. John’s will cost the city over $22,000

At today’s council meeting the future of that project will be discussed.

The project was initially implemented to encourage social distancing in response to COVID-19.

Essentially, it is a series of markers placed out on the roadways temporarily to extend the sidewalk so pedestrians have enough space to pass each other.

The city conducted a data analysis of pedestrian traffic in the areas for three days before the implementation of the project and three days after.

The study found that usage remained stable both before and after, meaning the project did not result in increased usage. The city further notes that even on the busiest street the possibility of interactions was quite low and the demand for such as space is low as well.

The city says the need for the project was based on public health needs and that the outlook on COVID-19 since implementation has improved significantly.

Council will be tasked with deciding whether to maintain, make changes to, or end the project.