Regional police and the City of Waterloo are stepping up efforts to prevent unsanctioned St. Patrick’s Day parties this weekend. As part of the city’s annual preparations, fencing has been installed along Ezra Street and nearby areas to deter large gatherings.
According to the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS), the fencing extends beyond the University District to include the Northdale and MacGregor neighbourhoods, the southern part of the Sugarbush community, much of Uptown Waterloo, and even around Waterloo Park.
Earlier this week, WRPS and city officials announced that the Ontario Superior Court of Justice has granted an Injunction Order effective from midnight on Friday, March 12, until 11:59 p.m. on March 17. Under this injunction, anyone participating in disruptive, unsanctioned celebrations could face arrest, detention, or charges for breaching a court order.
The City of Waterloo has also declared a “Community Safety Event” during this period, alongside a parking ban covering areas included in the injunction. Traffic and parking bylaws will be strictly enforced throughout the weekend.
These measures are part of Waterloo’s Post-Secondary District Safety Initiative, a collaborative effort involving WRPS, Wilfrid Laurier University, University of Waterloo, Conestoga College, and Region of Waterloo Paramedic Services. The initiative aims to maintain public safety and minimize disruptions in neighbourhoods often impacted by large student gatherings.
