The leader's debate taking place this afternoon will mean traffic disruption downtown as some streets will be closed to traffic.
Parking lots and public transit will also be affected.
The Northern Leaders Debate is hosted by the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) and Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA).
The following streets have been closed to both motorists and public transit:
- McIntyre Street East from Ferguson Street to Wyld Street
- Main Street East from Ferguson Street to Wyld Street
- Wyld Street from Main Street to McIntyre Street
- Ferguson Street from Main Street to McIntyre Street
Roads will reopen by 6 p.m. today
The Public Parking Lot #3 behind the Capitol Centre is also closed.
Available public parking lots are:
- Lot #11 located on McIntyre Street across from City Hall
- Lot #2 on Oak Street West
- Lot #7 on Worthington Street East across from the Post Office
- The parking garage on the 100 block of McIntyre Street West
Pedestrian traffic on McIntyre Street from Ferguson Street to Wyld Street is also banned with the exception of ticket holders to the debate. If you have a debate ticket, you can enter at the intersection of Wyld at McIntyre Streets, as well as Ferguson at McIntyre Streets by presenting the ticket or pass.
There will be demonstrations in the area.
"NBPS respects the rights of Canadians to exercise their freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. We also recognize the rights of the general public, all road users, local residents and businesses to a safe environment," says a police news release.
The role of the NBPS is to ensure public safety. We ask everyone to be patient and respectful.
