The Bentway, with partners Gehl and researchers from the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, released a report that revealed the essential role public spaces play in fostering mental health and social connections.

The report, called Rx For Social Connection, is centred around learnings from The Bentway’s 2024 Softer City program of art and social events, and draws on perspectives and onsite observations from public space operators, urban strategists, public health practitioners, artists, and designers.

In a previous report, Toronto was named the loneliest city in Canada, with 43 per cent of Toronto residents reporting that they never see their neighbours and 37 per cent feeling lonely at least three times a week.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared loneliness to be a global health threat. A lack of social connection is as detrimental for one’s health as smoking, and is worse than factors such as alcohol, and air pollution. Lonely people are also at higher risk for dementia, heart attacks, and strokes.

“Our new research reveals that thoughtfully designed public spaces, like The Bentway, are unsung heroes in the work of building healthier communities. These vibrant hubs aren’t just places to gather—they’re powerful public health tools that can help reverse troubling health trends,” said Dr. Kate Mulligan of the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health. “The work shows cities and health professionals worldwide that great urban design can be a prescription for better well-being.”