Montreal is abuzz with two major international cycling events this month, but local businesses along the race routes are feeling the pinch of extended road closures. Streets in the Plateau–Mont-Royal and Ville-Marie boroughs have been shut down or are set to close for the Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal and the UCI Road World Championships.
Marika Moshonas, owner of a kitchen supply store on Park Avenue, expressed concern over the impact of the closures on her business. While some nearby eateries view the cycling events as an opportunity to attract more customers, Moshonas is uncertain about the effects on her commercial and retail clientele.
With Park Avenue already closed for the recent Grand Prix tournament and street parking set to be banned for the upcoming UCI World Cycling Championships, Moshonas fears losing clients due to restrictions. Despite efforts to maintain accessibility, such as available parking lots, the prolonged closures raise worries for businesses and residents alike.
The cycling championships are expected to draw 1,000 cyclists and half a million spectators, leading to extensive road closures in downtown and Plateau neighborhoods. Concerns have been raised by advocates for individuals with disabilities, highlighting the challenges faced by those reliant on home care services during the traffic disruptions.
While emergency services have not reported a surge in calls, Urgences-santé urges Montrealers to limit unnecessary travel to reduce congestion. Real-time information tools like Quebec 511 and the cycling championship’s website offer updates and interactive maps to help navigate the affected areas.
