A lack of proper illumination and visual interest makes laneways inhospitable at night. Introducing lighting, murals, and plantings can extend the community utility of laneways into the evening, by creating a sense of safety and a welcoming place for socialization and circulation.

Light Up the Laneways was a multi-phase demonstration project to establish a best-practice precedent for the planning and implementation of laneway revitalizations in Toronto. The project took what we’ve learned from Torontonians about the essential ingredients for a vibrant, living laneway and put it into action — starting with pedestrian-friendly lighting, and boosting it with street art, urban greening and furniture to create safe, vibrant welcoming shared spaces.

The project improved two laneways in the Ossington and Bloordale neighbourhoods, in collaboration with the Ossington BIA, Ossington Community Association, Bloordale BIA and Bloordale Community Improvement Association. Over the course of 2019, we installed new planters, murals and lighting fixtures to transform the two pilot sites into beautiful, illuminated pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly spaces for neighbours and visitors to enjoy day and night.