The city's newest 24-hour washroom facility opened its doors to the public on Whyte Avenue Friday night.
The facility, located at the northeast corner of Whyte Avenue and Gateway Boulevard, is equipped with three stalls for women, one men’s stall, a change area, and two indoor and two outdoor urinals.
It’s part of a half million dollar investment by the city to increase the number of safe and publicly accessible restrooms and to help keep Whyte Avenue clean.
“There’s a 24/7 need for this facility because Whyte Avenue is such a vibrant part of our city,” Angela Turner with Responsible Hospitality Edmonton told CTV News.
“It’s going to provide public washroom facilities for the public and our millions of guests with washroom facilities as well as vulnerable people in the area and we have an active nightlife so it works for that,” said Murray Davison with the Old Strathcona Business Association.
“We hope it leads to a cleaner street.”
The association had been pushing for the permanent facility for years.
But its Friday debut was met with mixed emotions by some Whyte Avenue visitors.
“I didn’t realize it was going to be so see through,” said Shalisa Liesch.
“It’s very awkward. I’ll probably go to a bar to use their washroom.”
DJ Parkham thinks the glass walls are good for security.
“I’m not going to get attacked, get mugged or anything like that," he said.
“On the other hand I’m not sure I would be comfortable peeing in front of everyone.”
Jesse Mulder is pleased with the concept.
“I think it’s a great idea,” Mulder said. “They’re very well-designed. ”
The facility was designed using Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles. The city says it was deliberately placed next to a high vehicle and pedestrian traffic area with full glass walls to ensure visibility and security for patrons.
The 24/7 public washroom will replace temporary urinals and portable toilets that have been used in the area since 2007.
There’s no charge to use the facility.
