3 Curious Back Alley Projects
There’s something clandestine about back alleys, as if they provide an opportunity to peel back the streetfront facade to reveal the real city underneath. Back alleys aren’t just unswept pavement and places for deliveries and garbage pick-up. Here are three cities that have turned their back alleys into attractions instead of places to avoid.
Lethbridge, Alberta
The Lethbridge Historical Society undertook a project to name Lethbridge’s downtown back alleys. With Lethbridge’s streets named for businessmen and investors, it was decided that the back alleys should be named after everyday people: shopkeepers, secretaries, and even prostitutes.
Kamloops, BC
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The back alleys of Kamloops are filled with colour as local artists have created a back alley art gallery featuring more than 30 murals.
Montreal, Quebec
In Montreal, ruelles vertes or green alleyways, are filled with greenery, art, and places for people to sit and gather. More than 100 alleyways can be found around the city, offering opportunities for residents to listen to music, meet their neighbours, and enjoy murals.
