Local MPP invites residents to ‘yarn bomb’ scaffolding on Queen Street East in the Beach to help promote local businesses
By ABBY RUSSCHEN
Situated on Queen Street East between Hammersmith and Wineva avenues, a large scaffolding structure stands in front of several local shops, blocking windows, signage and disrupting foot traffic during the most pivotal season. Thanks to a creative yarn bombing initiative, its grey pipes are now wrapped in bright colours.
On Tuesday, July 15, Beaches-East York MPP Mary-Margaret McMahon and her team set out to beautify the construction zone by bringing life back to the area via wrapping colourful yarn around the structure.
Community members walking by were encouraged to help yarn bomb the framework to remind patrons that the hidden businesses are still open.
“We just wanted to bring some colour and life to this ugly scaffolding,” said McMahon.
She hopes the display will draw more foot traffic to the area, with the colourful yarn catching people’s attention, leading them to discover the hidden gems beyond the grey frame.
The project came after McMahon’s effort to push back against the scaffolding’s installation, but the framework proved necessary, which led to her Plan B of making it pretty.
The scaffolding is due to construction at The Hammersmith Condos, which is above the businesses, where flood repairs and exterior brickwork are taking place. While there is no exact timeline for the construction, the work is expected to continue into the fall.
“Unfortunately, it’s necessary,” said Ken Cade, president of The Hammersmith condo board. “We’re just trying to do it as mindfully as possible.”
Local clothing store Boa Boutique is among the businesses hidden behind the structure. They noted that not only is the scaffolding distracting, but it’s dangerous.
“A lot of customers come in and they go to get on the streetcar in a hurry and they bump their heads,” said an employee of Boa, Holly Struys. Something which the colourful initiative will hopefully ease.
She said the piping also blocks the store’s sign and front window display, which negatively impacts their marketing and customer flow.
Local businesses donated yarn in support of the beautification project, including The Pegasus Shoppe on Kingston Road, The Wool Mill on Danforth Avenue, and The Yarn Guy on Gower Street in East York.
The project doesn’t end here. McMahon is calling on the community to keep it going by coming out on your own and contributing to the beautification of the scaffolding in support of local businesses.
“Grab a ball of yarn, help us yarn bomb and beautify the area,” said McMahon.
I hope wild birds and wildlife have been taken into consideration and wont get caught in the yarn like so often times happens in nets!!!
Mar