Students at the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, and those studying out of town are preparing for another year of St. Patrick’s Day street parties, whether they plan on participating or not.
Fencing has been installed along Ezra Avenue, a feature that is meant to deter foot traffic during illegal street partying, but which also causes a disruption for people just trying to get to class.
“I can’t park my car here anymore, I can’t really walk easily, it’s ugly, I feel like I’m in jail,” said Victoria, a science student at Laurier.
The fencing and the community safety event put in place by the City of Waterloo are in response to costly illegal street parties in recent years, as droves of students have caused noise, property damage, and disruptions on Ezra Avenue and Marshall Street.
“I get it, I drink, I go out. I remember the first year, I think in 2023, someone got up on a truck and then proceeded to smash the truck with a golf club, which is horrible, but this cannot be the answer, like this is so absurd,” said Nadia, a business student, about the fencing on Ezra Avenue.
Fences are being set up on Ezra Avenue in Waterloo ahead of St. Patrick’s Day. (Mark Douglas/ CityNews)
The community safety event, which includes an on-street parking ban, goes into effect in the University District on Saturday morning from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. and again on Tuesday.
“I understand them taking the precautions and trying to prevent students from doing the crazy stuff that they do, but at the end of the day, kids are going to do what they want to do, especially students,” said Leia, a biology student at Laurier. “They feel that maybe this year is going to be the last year to be as crazy as they want and do whatever they want.”
Tickets are set to be issued by bylaw officers as well as regional police for noise violations, roofing, littering, public urination, as well as garbage and property standards before, during, and after the events.
“The city is cracking down. It’s fun though, just coming out, seeing a bunch of people. Someone does something funny, like climbing a tree or going on a roof. That’s what it’s all about: drunk people doing fun stuff,” said Shervin, a data science student at Laurier.
The cost of those tickets is set at up-to $1,200.