6-month pedestrian access on Victoria Row a success says business owner

Businesses on Victoria Row in Charlottetown say they've been getting more customers this year with the block shut down to traffic for an extra two months.

The seasonal closure started in May this year, a month earlier than usual. It will continue to be closed for an extra month, until the end of October.

Some business owners were pushing for the extension, to accommodate shoulder season tourists, including cruise ship passengers.

Bill Watters, owner of Northern Watters Knitwear, said in addition to the increase in foot traffic there is a question of safety to be considered.

"People were walking in the street and cars were dodging the people because it's supposed to be a pedway, according to all advertising," said Watters.

"I saw several people almost get hit. This is what I've pointed it out to the city: it's dangerous."

Watters said he'd like to see the block closed off to traffic all year round.

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