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an extra loo or two

Seasonal public washroom opens May 1 in downtown Red Deer

Apr 30, 2023 | 4:00 PM

A seasonal washroom will open in downtown Red Deer May 1.

This will be the washroom’s third and final year of a pilot project which started in 2021.

It is to be located at 4900 49 Street (parking lot P4).

The washroom offers two stalls, including one which is accessible and available for anyone. The facility is to be cleaned at least once a day, be supervised by a dedicated attendant, and is managed by the Downtown Business Association.

“Providing people in the downtown core with access to a safe, clean, and closely monitored public washroom supports several strategic priorities for The City of Red Deer, including the Social Policy Framework, the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, and the Downtown Activation Playbook’s Streams of Action,” said Bobby-Jo Stannard, Community Development Superintendent.

“We’re pleased with the results of the temporary public washroom and look forward to continuing this pilot project in partnership with the Downtown Business Association.”

The washroom operates Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with extended hours during special events, including the Downtown Market and Ross Street Patio performances. The facility will remain operational through October 10, 2023.

The City notes a survey was conducted in 2022 to evaluate the use of the facility and the success of the project, and to determine future needs.

Feedback indicated the washroom is valued by a diverse range of users as well as business owners, The City says. The Downtown Business Association noted a significant reduction in complaints regarding human waste while the washroom was operating. A similar survey will be completed in 2023.