Park Benches - Repair / New Install
I wrote to Parks, Forestry & Recreation requesting a picnic table be reinstated. Staff confirmed it was replaced - a simple request with a real outcome.
What is Writing to City Staff?
Sometimes 311 fails, a request is delayed, or an issue isn’t covered. Don’t give up. Use the City of Toronto Staff Directory to find the best division and write to a specific person - one at a time. In my experience, this yields replies very consistently.
30+
letters sent to City staff
90%
received a response
What I did
Bike Lanes - Traffic Signal Made Functional
I emailed Transportation Services about a bike signal that had been installed but left inactive for months, creating safety risks on a school route. After my follow-ups, staff escalated it through the weekly signal operations review, and the signal was later made functional.
Transit Shelter Safety - Routed to Repairs
I reported a broken glass barrier at a streetcar stop. TTC confirmed the request was forwarded to the team responsible for streetcar tracks and shelters, and the glass was later installed.
Short Bicycle Signal - Safety Concern
I flagged bike–traffic conflicts caused by short signal timing and requested a longer green bicycle phase; the City later extended it.
Sidewalk Encroachment - Accessibility
I reported an outdoor installation taking up most of the sidewalk and flagged accessibility impacts for wheelchairs, mobility devices, and strollers. The City followed up with an accessibility compliance review.
EV Charging Machines on Sidewalks - Safety
I reported loose EV charging station cables posing a tripping risk on the sidewalk and followed up; a cable spooling mechanism was later installed.
How you can do it too
- Find the right staff contact using the City directory.
- Write a short, factual, respectful message with photos if helpful.
- Track responses and thank teams when issues are resolved.