The controversial King Street pilot project will continue well into 2019 after city council voted on Thursday to approve its extension.

By a vote of 19 to three, councillors approved the continuation of the project for another seven months — until July 31.

Councillors Mike Ford, Stephen Holyday and Jim Karygiannis voted against the motion.

City staff had recommended council vote in favour of the extension. Last month, on the one year anniversary of its launch, a study found the project has meant a much improved experience for transit riders, cyclists and pedestrians.

A vote will take place next year to decide if the project will become permanent.

The pilot project, which started in November 2017, restricts vehicle traffic to driving the length of one block on King Street both ways from Jarvis Street to Bathurst Street.