Item - 2026.TE31.41

The Acting Director, Street Permits, Transportation Services recommends that:   

1. City Council authorize the General Manager of Transportation Services to temporarily close Market Street to vehicular traffic between The Esplanade and Front Street East from May 10, 2026, to January 9, 2027.

This staff report is about a matter that Community Council does not have delegated authority from City Council to make a final decision.

Transportation Services is requesting approval to temporarily close Market Street to vehicular traffic between The Esplanade and Front Street East from May 10, 2026, to January 9, 2027. This temporary closure is required to facilitate the Market Street Closure hosted by the Old Town Toronto BIA.

Given that Transportation Services does not have the authority to close a road for longer than four (4) days, approval from City Council is required in accordance with Section 937-3 of Municipal Code Chapter 937, Temporary Closing of Highways.

There is no financial impact to the City associated with the recommendation in this report.

The permit costs for the 2026 Temporary Market Street Closure are approximately $8,064.81 if the road closure is maintained for the full duration being requested (May 10, 2026 to January 9, 2027). The event organizers will be responsible for all costs associated with the 2026 'I Heart Market Street' / 'Winter Market' on Market Street.

Any financial impacts associated with the removal of the pay-and-display parking are expected to be resolved between the event organizers and the Toronto Parking Authority.