A petition with more than 400 names is being circulated online by some residents to Save the Van Dusen Pedestrian Bridge.

Irate residents of the Norseman Heights, Sunnylea, Kingsway and Thompson Orchard areas say they regularly use the popular pedestrian bridge that crosses Mimico Creek at Van Dusen, which has been closed indefinitely.

“This bridge is always very, very busy with pedestrians and cyclists at all times of the year,” the residents say in a petition to Mayor John Tory and Councillor Mark Grimes. “This bridge connects our community and gives an alternative to walking or biking along busy Bloor Road bridge or Royal York bridge.”

Residents say there has been no communication from the City or Grimes. They were told by a local parent group that the bridge ‘has been condemned and maybe closed for a year or two.’
“We have heard nothing from the city nor has any signage been erected,” they claim.

They say the bridge should be a part of ActiveTO, which was developed as part of the pandemic response.

The residents are seeking that the City notify the community about the repair and when it will be completed, for the repair to be expedited and proper maintenance to ensure the bridge remains in order.

The closure also impacts cyclists, pedestrians and families during this time of social distancing, and increase walks by children to their local schools.

An official at Grimes’ office says the Councillor had a call scheduled with the staff responsible for the bridge closure, during which he will request measures be taken to inform the community about the bridge.

“We have been in constant contact with staff since the closure and, like the community, have been eagerly awaiting details,” Grimes office said.

“This bridge is a main artery for our neighborhood,” Michelle wrote on social media. “There is no indication or information as to why the bridge was closed and two years is an insane time to get this done.”

Diana says ‘the bridge has been a main focal point of getting to the shops at Royal York Rd. and Bloor St. W.’

The petition is accessible on you.leadnow.ca