University Avenue Gateway

The City of Waterloo, in partnership with the Region of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, the University of Waterloo, and Conestoga College, is undertaking a study to develop a vision and design plan for University Avenue.

University Avenue is the primary gateway and access to the city’s and region’s learning, innovation, discovery and entrepreneurial centre. The avenue is home to the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University and Conestoga College. An opportunity exists to celebrate the distinct landmarks, businesses and institutions located along and adjacent to the corridor.

Thanks to everyone who provided input during consultations throughout 2018 and 2019. What we heard from you:

• there is limited placemaking along the corridor
• landmarks along the streetscape are not prominent
• the avenue is like a highway for cars and trucks and uncomfortable for pedestrians
• there's a lack of greenery and street trees
• inadequate cycling lanes
• there is little connection and overall cohesion in the street today
• good design should be used to increase balance in the street
• we need to prioritize safety, signage and wayfinding around institutions
• the street is perceived as an unwelcoming environment
• need to focus on making the street safe, enjoyable and efficient for people

Based on research and what we've heard, study recommendations are as follows:

• more green space and more street trees
• traffic needs to be slowed down and made safer for pedestrians
• wider sidewalks along most of the corridor
• more patios and urban plazas for people to rest, enjoy and to animate the streetscape
• wider and enhanced crosswalks to make it safer and easier to cross the street
• make cyclists and pedestrians the priority along this corridor

Thank you!

Thank you to all who have provided comments following the October open house. The project team has collected all the comments for input when finalizing the University Avenue Gateway report. Stay tuned for future updates early in 2020.