What would ordinary life look like in our city if a foot of snow fell overnight? Would your city remain a hospitable, economically productive and safe place to live?
Passing the winter test requires addressing key factors: land use, public spaces, and transit. Winter-ready cities embrace density and mixed-use building patterns, fostering small businesses within walking distance of residential areas. This not only enhances winter resilience but also optimizes land use economically.
These cities create mixed-use public spaces with weather-appropriate attractions, offering alternatives to staying indoors during inclement weather. Additionally, they prioritize mixed-modal transit, enabling citizens to navigate safely without relying on cars.
Past blizzards expose the vulnerability of a city that is unprepared for winter. Without local businesses, inviting public spaces, or safe transit, residents are left stranded, freezing, and anxious about essential supplies.
The winter test serves as a framework to evaluate and improve our cities' resilience, guiding us towards proven practices for a more adaptable future.
nuSarnia is a passionate group of social entrepreneurs committed to making Sarnia the best it can be – a vibrant, lively city where people are excited to live, work, play and learn. We are committed to raising awareness, sharing knowledge, acquiring wisdom, fostering collaboration and attentively listing to create a more connected, active and healthy community.
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