Toronto mayoral candidate Brad Bradford proposes renaming Sankofa Square to "Toronto Square" and increasing security at the downtown intersection [1].
The proposal addresses growing concerns over public safety and sanitation at one of the city's most prominent landmarks. By rebranding and intensifying maintenance, Bradford aims to revitalize a central hub that he argues has deteriorated.
Bradford, who also serves as a city councillor, announced the plan on Monday, June 24 [1]. He said the current state of the public space at the intersection of Yonge Street and Dundas Street is "dirty and unsafe" [1]. The candidate said the area has become "a bit of a wasteland that needs to be restored" [2].
Under the proposed plan, the city would implement a steady and permanent police presence to deter crime and improve public order [3]. This security increase would be paired with a comprehensive cleanup effort to remove debris, and grime from the square [1].
Bradford said the restoration of the site is necessary for the public. He said the current environment discourages visitors and residents from utilizing the space effectively [2].
If elected in the October 2026 municipal election, Bradford said he will implement these changes [1]. The proposal suggests that a name change to "Toronto Square" would help reset the identity of the location and signal a new chapter for the downtown core [1].
"We need a steady and permanent police presence," Bradford said [3].
“"It's dirty and unsafe."”
This proposal highlights a campaign focus on 'broken windows' policing and urban renewal. By linking a name change with increased surveillance and sanitation, Bradford is positioning public order and civic pride as central pillars of his mayoral platform ahead of the October election.
