Comments –
Other measurements of activity using algorithms from cell phone locations confirm that more people are choosing to return to the downtown. SRRA’s Index measuring the return of office workers specifically indicates that commuters are reaching their maximum use of the car. Parking lots are filling up, traffic is nearing pre-COVID levels and the delivery of goods and services continues to escalate.
The trend toward a Tuesday to Thursday hybrid model will present problems for transit operators, retailers and cultural businesses who rely on a more complete work week. That said the return is still in its early stages with much to learn over the next few months.
The links below highlight the difficulties for employers organizing a hybrid model.
Links to Articles of Interest
Take the time to read the articles, not just the headlines!
Take newspaper headlines with a pinch of salt! Important to read the actual report to which ‘experts’ are reacting. (And check against SRRA’s robust data on office occupancy trends if still unconvinced.)
Myths and misunderstandings about the perils of taking transit during the pandemic need to be countered by research – scientists in London finding no traces of virus on system so far
New York shopping streets in neighbourhoods faring better than major retail corridors – less office worker foot traffic to blame say analysts
Ernst & Young survey suggests that large companies may downplay role of head office as impact of hybrid sees few companies laying down specifics about WFH
Residential developers clean up in U.S. suburban metros as pandemic spurs unprecedented demand from empty nesters and young professionals leaving the core. Is this indicative of the Toronto region’s experience?
Corporate remote working policies and desire for flexibility an issue of concern for U.S. office workers – PwC survey. Employees still in the driver’s seat? Depends on the size and type of business