The Globe and Mail reported today that Levels of raw sewage increasing in waterways. It is based on a report by  Ecojustice (formerly the Sierra Legal Defense Fund) just published on municipal sewage overflows in Ontario, called Flushing Out the Truth. According to the report, in 2006 Toronto released over 284 MILLION litres of raw sewage into the lake. Ecojustice also created a report, called Green Cities, Great Lakes, which recommends green infrastructure to prevent Combine Sewage Overflows. Among its recommendations is street trees to soak up rain flow; ie: a Living Sidewalk!

That's exactly what we have been pushing for: a living sidewalks along Roncesvalles. And that takes more than returning the street to a state of good repair. New construction techniques and materials allow for sidewalks to be built in such a way that trees can develop into a mature canopy with a healthy root system. The roots are integrated with the municipal stormwater system, dramatically reducing stormwater run-off. It’s an approach that harnesses nature to create a sustainable and green infrastructure. 

Building a sidewalk that allows for proper planting of trees is initially more expensive than the current approach to sidewalk construction. However, the investment upfront is recovered by much lower maintenance costs to the sidewalk and the infrastructure below the sidewalk, along with a host of environmental benefits, ranging from reduced stormwater overflows, reduced CO2 emissions, better air quality, more shade and cooler temperatures in the summer and a dramatically more beautiful streetscape.

A living sidewalk for Roncesvalles could be used as a demonstration model for other communities that want to green their mainstreets during scheduled reconstruction. It's a prime time for our three levels of government to contribute to this endeavour, which fits in with the stated priorities of the city, province and feds. Now is the time to show your support for this. Join the discussion and contact our representatives.