Waterfront Toronto





news from our new blue edge

Public Notice

Gardiner East Draft Environmental Assessment Report
Have Your Say! View the Draft Report and send in your comments by September 6, 2016




The Gardiner East Environmental Assessment (EA) project team has prepared a Draft EA Report for the reconfiguration of the Gardiner Expressway and Lake Shore Boulevard East, from just west of Jarvis Street to approximately Leslie Street. The Draft EA Report summarizes the Gardiner East EA study process since it was initiated in 2009 to the present, and will be submitted to the Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) for approval in the near future.

Before the submission to MOECC, stakeholders and the public are invited to review the Draft EA Report as part of a 45-day voluntary review period, beginning July 21, 2016 and ending on September 6, 2016, and provide comments to the project team via the Facilitator’s Office.

An electronic copy of the Draft EA Report is available on the project website.

Alternatively, a hard copy of the Draft EA Report can be viewed at Toronto City Hall Library (100 Queen Street West, main floor), Waterfront Toronto (20 Bay Street, Suite 1310), and the Facilitator’s Office (505 Consumers Road, Suite 1005), during regular business hours.

Comments may be submitted via one of the following options:
  1. An online feedback form;
  2. Email to info@gardinereast.ca; or
  3. Mail to the Facilitator’s Office at:

    Gardiner East EA Facilitator’s Office
    505 Consumers Road, Suite 1005
    Toronto, ON  M2J 4V8
     
The Draft EA Report will subsequently be revised as needed to address comments received during the voluntary review period. The final Draft EA Report will then be submitted to MOECC for approval. A second, mandatory public and government review of the Final EA document will then be coordinated through the MOECC. The public will have seven (7) weeks to provide comment to the MOECC on the Final EA Report. The Final EA Report is anticipated to be submitted to the MOECC in fall 2016 and will be made available through the project website.

Sincerely,
Gardiner East EA Facilitator's Office
news from our new blue edge

WATERFRONT TORONTO ANNOUNCES FREE ARTS AND CULTURAL EVENTS IN TORONTO’S EAST BAYFRONT AND WEST DON LANDS NEIGHBOURHOODS

Waterfront Toronto is proud to announce a new program of free arts and cultural events in Toronto’s waterfront neighbourhoods. These events celebrate new public spaces in the West Don Lands and East Bayfront, inviting Torontonians and visitors alike to discover and enjoy our reimagined and revitalized waterfront.

The summer 2016 program includes a range of events for all ages, ranging across dance, music, theatre, visual arts, performance, and community-engaged artwork. Many of the selected programs also take on important themes like building community, placemaking, civic engagement, education, health and wellness, and the environmental.

Many of these events are funded through Waterfront Toronto’s Animating Our Waterfrontpilot program that facilitates individuals, organizations, collectives and groups who wish to present free arts and cultural programming in selected parks and public spaces in our city’s waterfront neighbourhoods.

All the events are free, open to the public and suitable for all ages.

STREET PROJECTS

Where: Corktown Common’s paths and trails around the marsh
When: Installed from July through September

Street Projects by Open Field Collective

Open Field Collective has installed five tiny art galleries along the trails and paths that encircle the marsh at Corktown Common. These brightly coloured “art boxes” are mounted on posts at the trail’s edge and their contents are curated with rotating exhibitions of work by contemporary artists. In July, discover works by Jason van HorneErika JamesLisa GoldbergMarcia Huyer, and Shane Tyler Adams and NIXO.

Open Field Collective was founded in 2014 by Toronto-based artists Scott McDermid andErika James. They bring contemporary art into outdoor spaces where art and community can interact. Discover more of their work online: openfieldcollective.wordpress.com











WEST AFRICAN DANCE WITH MISS COCO

Where: Lawren Harris Square
When: Saturday, July 16 and Sunday July 17 from 10am to 11:30am
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1737004489875205/

West African Dance with Miss Coco

Miss Coco leads a live drumming performance and community dance workshop that will introduce people of all ages to the basic movements of West African Dance. The demonstration and performances will be led by Miss Coco, her drummers and participants.

Registration is free on-site on the day of the event.

Miss Coco Murray is a dancer, researcher, dance instructor and choreographer educating children/youth & adults about African-Caribbean culture and indigenous knowledge. Find her online at www.misscocomurray.com and follow her on Facebook.

VERSA

Where: Sherbourne Common
When: Friday, July 29 from 9pm to 10pm
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1594425420855577/

VersaVersa

Versa is a unique audio/visual performance that will dazzle your eyes and ears. Music created on a bass guitar is rendered visible as low-frequency sound traveling through water. Through the use of a custom-built speaker box, with tactile bass transducers, the physical patterns produced through the interaction of sound waves and water create psychedelic patterns and shapes that are projected onto the walls of Sherbourne Common’s zinc-clad pavilion. Guests will enjoy the chance to sprawl out on the park’s spacious lawn and take in a visual and auditory treat.

Versa is an audio/visual collaboration between process-based artist Monika Hauck and musician Alex Ricci. Learn more online at www.versavisuals.com and follow Versa onFacebook and Twitter.

UKE CAN SING

Where: Corktown Common
When: Saturdays: August 6, 13, 20 and Sunday: August 21 from 2pm to 3:30pm
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1000958483306289/

Uke Can Sing

Uke Can Sing is a series of fun and educational workshops – free and open to the public – that gather people outdoors in Corktown Common. Workshop leaders K Funk and Lady Reeteach participants how to sing and play the ukulele. These are the infamous singing ukulele ladies of the TTC Subway Musicians program – join them for a whimsical and educational jam session. Borrow a ukulele from K Funk and Lady Ree (limit of 30, first-come-first-serve) or bring your own!

K Funk and Lady Ree are professional musicians, performing artists and certified teachers in Toronto with more than ten years of experience teaching and performing. Follow them onFacebookTwitter, Instagram and YouTube.

OPEN NETWORK

Where: West Don Lands - Mill Street & Rolling Mills Road
When: Installed throughout August and September with community events to be announced.

Open Network

-Open Network asks the question, “How is community created in the Information Age?” This collaboration between installation artist Sean Martindale and programming coordinator Leia Gore will create a large-scale land art Wi-Fi symbol with a sculptural text-art stage in Toronto’s new West Don Lands neighbrouhood. The title refers both to Wi-Fi networks that connect people to the Internet, and to the idea of “network” in a more traditional sense, as a germinative point for community. Open Network adapts Martindale’s 2009 public interventionPARK to create a stage—the centerpiece of a series of community events that will take place August through September. More details to come – follow Waterfront Toronto on Facebook andTwitter for updates.

Sean Martindale is an internationally recognized public installation artist. He has created numerous text-based public artworks, as well as installations using sod and earth as primary materials. Martindale is particularly lauded for his interventions and community projects. Learn more about Sean Martindale online: www.seanmartindale.com

Leia Gore has been programming public exhibitions and managing art-related events in both public and private spaces since 2008. Her interest and participation in environmentalism, socially engaged artwork, and health and wellness date back to 2002.

SHADOWLAND THEATRE’S COMMUNITY CELEBRATION

Where: Corktown Common and Front Street Promenade
When: Sunday, August 7 from 1pm to 6pm



Shadowland Theatre will provide a full afternoon residency of family-friendly workshops and lessons that will allow community participants to create and rehearse all the elements for a parade – from costumes to flag waving and simple choreography. This community event will celebrate local waterfront imagery, such as historical and nautical figures, birds, fish and boats. The culminating parade will combine Shadowland’s artists and participants, accompanied by local residents, visitors and passers-by. Small vignettes will occur at stops so participants can showcase their skills and form the narrative journey.

Shadowland Theatre was founded in 1983 on Toronto Island by a collective of visual and theatre artists. Shadowland is now based in a studio in the Parkdale neighbourhood of Toronto working in collaboration with local organizations and community members, travelling throughout the GTA and across Ontario. Learn more online at www.shadowlandtheatre.ca and follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

THE GATA: WATER CEREMONY

Where: Sherbourne Common
When: Thursday, August 18 from 4:30pm to 10pm



Irene Cortes’ The Gata: Water Ceremony is a 5+ hour performance that will move through the many spaces and landscapes of Sherbourne Common. Using voice, dance, live music and innovative, non-invasive staging approaches that incorporate the land, this performance will transform Sherbourne Common into an opera house. Drawing from a wide array of wisdom traditions, particularly those of First Nations and Indigenous Peoples from across the globe, The Gata: Water Ceremony will perform rituals for purifying water and creating healing environmental energies. While we may not be consciously aware of these energies, we are certainly in dynamic relationship with them. We are in concert with our land and particularly our water. This will be a celebration and acknowledgement of Lake Ontario as the provider of our most precious resource on Earth: Water.

Irene Cortes is a multi-disciplinary Buddhist artist based in Toronto. Her books have been distributed in Asia and her plays have been produced in theaters across South Korea, China, and Thailand. Her films and performances have been exhibited in venues such as Spin Gallery (Toronto), Fundació Suñol (Barcelona), RufXXX (Seoul), Platoon Kunsthalle (Berlin), Dieselverkstaden (Sweden) and The Aga Khan Museum (Toronto). Her sculptures are in the permanent land art collection at the Centre for Contemporary Art in Sustainability (Spain). Her current work reassembles film and opera productions using these to build vernacular architecture and renewable energy infrastructures in developing communities. Follow The Gata on Facebook.

SINGING RIVER

Where: Corktown Common & Bala Underpass
When: Saturday, September 24 from 1pm to 5pm




Singing River consists of two complementary programming strands: Stream of Storiesfocuses on tales of river creatures while A River's Journey presents live music, audio installation and dance inspired by water.

Stream of Stories
Storytellers Cathy ElliottSharada Eswar and Diana Tso share tales from Indigenous Canada and around the world, inviting us to renew our relationship with our city's rivers. Stories of river creatures include Chinese river dragons; the Mi'kmaq horned serpent; and Kaliya, the multi-headed snake from Hindu mythology. Supernatural creatures which wield power through flooding and natural disaster can be appeased by our respectful relationships with rivers, lakes and streams.

A River's Journey
Dance, music and audio art inspired by rivers and our watery bodies. Performance highlights include:

-  Julia Aplin's dancing Nomads roaming the park with their canoe, in search of the river and adventure.
-  Vocal chameleon Christine Duncan and the Burble Choir give voice to the struggles and pleasures of an urban river.
-  The soulful Alex Samaras and GREX sing of the intertwined lives of humans and trees: we are all “rooted in the same ground.”
-  Nova Bhattacharya's evocative Bird waits and watches as time and the river pass — with dancer Lucy Rupert and percussionist Germaine Liu.
-  Julia Aplin's River Spirit is immersive dance at its most powerful: an exercise in trust and flow, dancing with the river.
-  Undercurrents sets the Bala underpass reverberating with an original song to the Wonscotonach/Don River, sung in Ojibway by Marie Gaudet.

Singing River is a production by Urbanvessel. At the intersection of multiple disciplines and cultures, Urbanvessel forges new connections, reflects contemporary life, and subverts social assumptions. Centred in the power of the human voice, Urbanvessel‘s creative works aim to alter our audience’s perspective on their world. Learn more about their work online:urbanvessel.wordpress.com and follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

news from our new blue edge

April 2016

The Next Phase of the West Don Lands is Coming to Life!


A view of the West Don Lands looking west towards downtown Toronto. 

Waterfront Toronto was established to deliver high-quality, sustainable, inclusive communities that are connected to adjacent areas and to the rest of the city. Earlier this month, the very first of these new communities – the West Don Lands – opened for the public to explore and discover.

Last summer, a portion of the West Don Lands temporarily served as the home-away-from-home for 10,000 athletes and officials during the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games. With the conversion of the former athletes’ village to its legacy purpose now complete and the fences removed, the next phase of the West Don Lands is coming to life.

Residents already living in the River City and Toronto Community Housing developments are being joined by those moving into the Canary District and the Fred Victor and Wigwamen affordable housing developments. The Cooper-Koo Family YMCA will open next month, retailers will open throughout the spring and this fall the first ever George Brown College Student Residence will open its doors and also call the West Don Lands home.

To learn more about this exciting new neighbourhood and what makes it unique, check out our recent blog post.

F

Four Ways to Get Involved with Project: Under Gardiner



Want to learn more about this project that is reclaiming 1.75 kilometres of public space beneath the elevated Gardiner Expressway? There are four easy ways to get involved right now - both in-person and online.

Join a walking workshop
Park People, Waterfront Toronto, and PUBLIC WORK are hosting a series of walking workshops where you can learn more about the project and share your feedback with the team. Each walk is approximately 2 hours. The next walk will be on Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 8, 2016) as part of Jane’s Walk.

REGISTER NOW to book your spot.

Share your feedback online
The project team has posted a series of short videos that help to explain the project’s different components. Alongside those videos are materials from the public meeting held earlier this month. To watch the videos, download materials and provide your comments, please visit: www.undergardiner.com/participate.html

Attend an upcoming public meeting
Save the date for our next public meeting scheduled for May 31, 2016. At this meeting, we’ll report back on the public feedback the project has received and present an update on the design process. If you’d like to receive more details about the meeting as it gets closer,sign up for email updates.

Vote for your favourite name
The people of Toronto submitted over 800 names to be considered for this new type of public space. Earlier this month, we convened a jury of local community builders, cultural leaders, volunteers and engaged citizens who met to shortlist the top names. Now, it’s time for you to vote for your favourites. The #ReclaimTheName polls opened today.

Rally behind the name you love the most. Voting will be open for only ten days – and you can cast your vote once each day. Check back daily to see if your name is leading.

Visit www.undergardiner.com/name.html to cast your vote.











Bringing Arts and Culture to Our New Waterfront Neighbourhoods


Building on the success of Nuit Blanche 2015 and our recent Sugar Beach Sugar Shack event, we’re doing even more to help Torontonians revisit and reimagine their waterfront. (Image: Christof Migone’s Hit installed on Queens Quay. Photo by Connie Tsang.) 

Waterfront Toronto has lead the revitalization of our city’s waterfront with high-quality parks and signature public realm. That’s why places like Canada’s Sugar Beach (one of the city’s most requested parks for event permits) and Corktown Common (only a few years old and already a favourite in Toronto’s east end) were in place before residents began to move in to our new neighbourhoods. Now, with the West Don Lands reopened and new residents moving in, our thoughts are increasingly turning to how programming these spaces can really bring them to life. 

This summer, we’ll build on these efforts with Waterfront Toronto's new Animating Our Waterfront program. It’s a pilot project that will award up to $5,000 to artists or arts organizations who want to present arts and cultural programming in waterfront public spaces.

Our goal is to host arts and cultural programming that celebrates the new public spaces and invites Torontonians and visitors alike to enjoy them. We’re looking forward to a summer of dance, music, theatre, visual arts, performance, literary and media arts, and maybe some combinations of any of the above.

Do you know an artist or arts organization who would like to participate in this program? Share this blog post or download the program application guidelines.



DOWNLOAD PROGRAM GUIDELINES [PDF] – 900KB











Join

 Join Waterfront Toronto at Jane's Walk

able border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="546">

The Water Guardians, by Jennifer Marman and Daniel Borins with James Khamsi.

Every year, Jane's Walk is held during the first weekend in May to coincide with the birthday of urban activist and writer Jane Jacobs. This year, the Jane's Walk festival is taking place from May 6-8 and Waterfront Toronto is leading tours through the West Don Lands and East Bayfront neighbourhoods.

West Don Lands Public Art Collection
The West Don Lands is Toronto’s next great neighbourhood – people focused, family friendly, environmentally sustainable and designed for living. Modeled by Waterfront Toronto’s award-winning Precinct Plan, the creation of this community has seen the transformation of post-industrial flood lands into a lively, sustainable neighbourhood.

Waterfront Toronto considers an inspiring public art program to be an essential component of a successful public realm and, as the neighbourhood was designed, public art was considered from the start. Rebecca Carbin, our public art program manager, is leading a Jane's Walk tour through the West Don Lands, a neighbourhood framed by its collection of public art. While looking at the vibrant composition of the neighbourhood as a whole, the tour will engage participants in a discussion about the role of art in the city, the challenges of public commissioning, and benefits of a community-wide art collection.

When:
Friday, May 6 at 10:30 a.m
Saturday, May 7 at 10:30 a.m.

REGISTER NOW to book your spot.

East Bayfront
Explore the developing East Bayfront neighbourhood with representatives from Waterfront Toronto, Artscape, and Daniels Waterfront - City of the Arts. Learn about the industrial heritage of this area and its future as a diverse, mixed-use community, tied together by a public art master plan.

We’ll look at existing parks and public spaces and art installations, and explain how they’re part of a bigger vision for the East Bayfront neighbourhood, which includes new homes for artists.

When:
Saturday, May 7 at 12:30 p.m.
Meet at the Daniels Presentation Centre (162 Queens Quay East)

More details will be made available next week at www.janeswalk.org/canada/toronto

In brief

Sugar High 
This March, Sugar Beach came alive with music and maple at the first-ever Sugar Beach Sugar Shack, which attracted more than 10,000 people to the waterfront. We were thrilled with the level of interest in this new community event, and excited to introduce Sugar Beach to some visitors who had yet to visit this revitalized space. Check out this short video recap of the sugar-filled weekend here.

The West Don Lands recognized with CSLA National Award
Each year, the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects recognizes preeminent examples of Canadian landscape architecture in the National Awards of Excellence. This year, the West Don Lands was one of two award recipients in the Public Landscapes Designed by a Landscape Architect category. Award-winning projects illustrate how landscape architects are helping to reshape our communities - defining the places we want to live, work and play. See the full list of winners here.

Queens Quay Revitalization wins Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) Award of Merit 
This April, CEO recognized 14 engineering firms whose projects contributed to improving Ontario’s social, economic and environmental well-being. Selected by a panel of five independent judges, the Queens Quay Revitalization was awarded for its stunning transformation from a neglected road into an iconic boulevard. Learn more about the win here.

Activate & Elevate Under the Gardiner

A think tank hosted by Lord Cultural Resources

Friday, April 29 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Join Lord Cultural Resources and members of theProject: Under Gardiner team for an insightful discussion with a group of international thought leaders, planners and designers. The Under Gardiner “Think Tank” is being convened to discuss the programs, activities and events that will define, shape, transform and energize the nearly 2-kilometre stretch of this once forgotten urban space.

International Thought Leaders In-Attendance

ALEX GILLIAM, Founding Director, Public Workshop
ALI HOSSAINI, Artist & CEO, CAN: Cinema Arts Network (UK)
CHARLES LANDRY, Urbanist
GERALD MCMASTER, OCAD Professor
HELEN MARRIAGE, Director, Artichoke Festival
KENNETH MONTAGUE, Art Collector/Curator

Register for this event on Eventbrite.
Image
Project: Under Gardiner is transforming a 1.75-kilometre stretch of public realm beneath the Gardiner Expressway from Strachan Avenue to Spadina Avenue. This new space will be home to a variety of cultural and recreational activities for Torontonians and visitors alike.

Manulife Paddle the Don

This Sunday, May 1, people of all ages will flock to the Don River for the annual Manulife Paddle the Don event. This environmental event celebrates and raises community awareness about the importance of healthy rivers in Toronto and the surrounding regions. It also brings community spirit around the river to encourage everyone to protect and regenerate the Don.
Although registration is full, you can still sign up for the waiting list or pledge a paddler

Proceeds from Manulife Paddle the Don will be used to support TRCA in the ongoing effort to protect, conserve, and enhance the Don River watershed.
\S

Save the date: Doors Open

The 17th annual Doors Open Toronto returns on Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29. The event will offer free and rare access to more than 130 architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant buildings in Toronto.

Waterfront Toronto will be hosting a tour of the West Don Lands Public Art Collection. Visitwww.toronto.ca/doorsopen in May for full details.
Site Specific by Scott Eunson is one of eight public art installations in the recently opened West Don Lands. 

Artfest Toronto 2016

This upcoming Victoria Day weekend, Artfest Torontowill host its annual outdoor arts and crafts show amongst the cobblestone lanes of the Distillery Historic District.

Come explore a wide-range of one-of-a-kind, world-class artwork at this exhibition in the heart of the old city. Admission is free!

May 21 – 23, 2016
11am – 6pm Daily

Don Dialogues: Accidental Parkland Film Screening

On May 10th, Evergreen Brick works is hosting a film screening of the documentary Accidental Parkland: The bounty and the burden of Toronto's Ravines.

Come explore Toronto’s vast ravine system and the role it plays in the new Don River Valley Park, followed by a panel discussion including the filmmaker Dan Berman. Register here to save your spot. 

7:00pm–9:00pm
Admission is free

Heritage Streetcars Return to Queens Quay 

The TTC will again operate is heritage Presidents' Conference Committee (PCC) streetcar on Sunday afternoons this summer. Beginning Victoria Day, the heritage streetcar will run on the 509 Harbourfront route until Labour Day weekend.

Catch a ride along Queens Quay on one of the "red rockets" that were once the workhorse of the TTC's streetcar fleet. 

PCC operation is subject to vehicle availability

Project update: East Bayfront


Looking east towards ongoing construction at Bayside. 


Queens Quay East
Construction crews working at Hines-Tridel’s Bayside development are now accessing this site intermittently via a driveway just east of Bonnycastle Street. When this access point is in use, a flagman will be stationed at the entrance to direct construction vehicles. Signs have been installed alerting cyclists and pedestrians to watch for turning vehicles.

East Bayfront Essential External Servicing Infrastructure
Work on the new Sanitary Pumping Station, located at the foot of Cherry Street at Lake Shore Boulevard East, continues. The concrete structure is complete, and mechanical and electrical work is ongoing.

The installation of the storm sewer on Queens Quay from Bonnycastle to Parliament Street is complete, and the road has been repaved and reopened to the public.

Construction of the two storm forcemains on the east side of Parliament Street from Lake Shore Boulevard to Small Street is nearing completion. Currently, cyclists travelling east or west on the trail are being diverted onto the sidewalk on the east side of Parliament Street. Cyclists must temporarily dismount and share the sidewalk with pedestrians. Please refer to this graphic, which shows the construction zone and diversion:https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=zyokRsRr3mQc.ktfvqSqL7AkA. This detour will be removed within the next two weeks.

Project update: West Don Lands



Yoga enthusiasts got their morning #HealthyHour stretch at Corktown Common on April 16 during a free yoga in the park event hosted by the Cooper Koo Cherry St. YMCA. Photo/Saad Javed; YMCA of Greater Toronto

Cooper Koo Family YMCA
You may have seen Cooper Koo Family Cherry Street YMCA staff and volunteers around the neigbourhood recently. They’ve been bringing the inside outside by holding weekly programming, like Yoga in the Park, in the community.

Before the doors officially open May 30, you’ll get a chance to experience what the YMCA has to offer. Tours of this new state-of-the-art, 82,000 square foot Centre of Community officially begin on May 15. A slew of classes will also be offered throughout the day, and then starting May 16 the community at large can swing by the building and participate in classes like Pilates, bootcamp, or a kettlebell workout.

This fun and excitement all leads to the Grand Opening celebration weekend and Open House taking place May 28 and 29. Throughout the weekend, visitors can tour the new YMCA, speak with Y staff, sample foods from local restaurants, or participate in an open swim, a table tennis match, or enjoy a piece of cake in celebration of the Grand Opening.

Once the doors open, the new Y will offer an array of programs including Health & Fitness, Day Camps, Community Programs, and a 30,000 square foot green roof – with an amazing view of the city.

Be sure to stay in touch, or get involved as a volunteer by emailingCooperKooCherrySt@ymcagta.org

To stay on top of it all, sign up for updates at www.CooperKooYMCA.org

Cherry Street Streetcar Testing and Commissioning
On April 20, the TTC began testing and commissioning of the new streetcar tracks on Cherry Street. Over the next few weeks, crews will continue making final touches, including installing new streetcar stops at the Distillery Loop and Front Street. Additional testing may be required with minor traffic impacts at intersections along the route. We thank you for your patience and understanding as the TTC brings this new piece of transit infrastructure into operation.

Service on the new 514 Cherry streetcar route will officially begin on Sunday, June 19, 2016. The route will operate between Distillery Loop to Dufferin Gates Loop via King Street. New low-floor accessible streetcars will be operated on this route as they become available through the summer and fall.

New TTC Bus Service
Alongside the 514 Cherry streetcar route, a new bus service will also be introduced to waterfront communities starting June 19. The new 72B Pape bus route will operate between Union Station and Pape Station along Queens Quay East and Commissioners Street. The existing 172 Cherry Street bus will be replaced with a new and expanded 121 Fort York-Esplanade bus route, operating between Fort York and the Distillery District via Union Station. Between May and September, this route will be extended to Cherry Beach. Both bus routes will operate all day, every day. Visit www.ttc.ca for full details. 
news from our new blue edge

REMINDER: Public Notice

Project: Under Gardiner Public Meeting
 




You are invited to attend the first public meeting for Project: Under Gardiner and the related Municipal Class Environmental Assessment. This public meeting will tell you more about the project and its objectives. A series of early designs will be presented for public comment and feedback.

The Project
Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto are developing 4 hectares (10 acres) of new public space on underused land under the Gardiner Expressway. The space will connect seven neighbourhoods with a new 1.75-kilometre multi-use trail and spaces for cultural programming between west of Strachan Avenue and Spadina Avenue.

The Environmental Assessment
Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto have initiated a Schedule ‘C’ Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) to study the municipal infrastructure required for a new pedestrian crossing at Fort York Boulevard, a component of the larger project. The study will follow the requirements of Phase 1 through Phase 5 of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment to examine the need for the infrastructure and evaluate alternative solutions and alternative design concepts.

How to Participate
You can attend the upcoming public meeting. The presentation and display boards will also be made available online for viewing and public comment the week of April 11, 2016. Subscribe to the mailing list to receive updates on when and where these materials will be available: www.undergardiner.com/connect.html
Public Meeting Details

Date: Thursday April 7, 2016
Time: Open House at 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; Presentation from 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Harbourfront Community Centre Gymnasium, 627 Queens Quay West, Toronto, ON M5V 3G3 The nearest major intersection is Queens Quay West and Bathurst Street.
Map: Click here.
Transit: Take the 511 Bathurst streetcar south to Fleet Street. Walk south to Queens Quay and east to the main entrance of the community centre. OR: take the 509 Harbourfront streetcar from Union Station to Queens Quay West at Dan Leckie Way West Side. Cross to the south side of Queens Quay and then walk west to the main entrance of the community centre. Please use the TTC trip planner for additional options.
Accessibility: Barrier-free access to the community centre is through the main entrance at the northwest corner of the building.

To learn more about the project please visit:
http://www.undergardiner.com/

For more information, please contact: 
Christopher McKinnon, Waterfront Toronto
20 Bay Street, Suite 1310, Toronto, ON M5J 2N8
Tel: 416-214-1344 ext.219 Fax: 416-214-4591
Email: info@waterfrontoronto.ca
Website: www.waterfrontoronto.ca
news from our new blue edge

January-February 2016

The waterfront is getting sweeter



We’re throwing a winter party at Canada’s Sugar Beach – and you’re all invited!
This March, Canada’s Sugar Beach is being transformed into a Québec-style cabane à sucre, complete with maple taffy and traditional French Canadian music and food.

This is a free event for families, visitors, and anyone who loves maple syrup. Enjoy live performances, including a special sing-along led by Choir! Choir! Choir! and a traditional French Canadian folk dance led by local ensemble Mur Du Son. All weekend long food trucks will also be serving Quebecois favourites like tourtière and poutine.

WHEN
Saturday, March 12, 12pm to 10pm
Sunday, March 13, 11am to 5pm

WHERE
Canada’s Sugar Beach – Jarvis and Queens Quay

The full schedule of activities and performances, and information on getting to the event will be available soon at SugarShackTO.ca

Public Feedback on Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and Harbour Square Park Master Plan


Artist rendering of children playing in Harbour Square Park. 

On January 26, nearly 300 community members participated in the first public meeting for the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and Harbour Square Park Master Plan. The project team presented the master plan and concept for phase 1 of the project and asked the public for their thoughts and feedback.

If you couldn’t make it out to the public consultation, you can see the full presentationhere. For an overview of the process to date and what’s changed about the master plan since it was first presented, read the handout we circulated at the meeting.

We've also extended the deadline to submit feedback on the revised master plan and the concept for phase 1. Simply fill out this online questionnaire by Wednesday, March 2, 2016.











NuitUpcoming: Public Consultation on Project Under Gardiner
 


Wintertime at Project: Under Gardiner near Fort York Visitor Centre

Last month, the project team for Project: Under Gardiner convened a Stakeholder Advisory Committee composed of residents, local business, landowners, advocacy groups (including for cycling, walking, environment, accessibility, and arts and culture), and five members of the community-at-large. The committee was provided an introduction to the project, an overview of the schedule and public consultation plan and had an opportunity to ask questions of the project team.

We also recently announced the Notice of Study Commencement for the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment for Project: Under Gardiner. Click here for more information.

In the coming weeks we’ll announce the details of an online consultation and public naming campaign, future public meeting dates, and a host of other important details about this exciting project.

Subscribe for Project: Under Gardiner updates here: http://eepurl.com/bHsVFH











Why the Port Lands are Vital to Toronto's Future


Don River looking west towards downtown Toronto

Once the largest natural wetland in Lake Ontario, the Port Lands is an underutilized brownfield site that is a reminder of Toronto's industrial past. As one of the last significant undeveloped spaces near the downtown core, the Port Lands offers immense potential for jobs, investment and growth, reducing urban sprawl, and for demonstrating global leadership in sustainable city building. The trouble is that much of the area is at risk of flooding and its potential cannot be reached until this risk is addressed.

Waterfront Toronto and its partners have a plan to flood protect this area and make the most of this opportunity. You may have heard a lot of talk about the Port Lands recently, perhaps in relation to the federal government’s plan for infrastructure investment, or Toronto’s possible bid to host Expo 2025 and so we thought that this would be a good time to describe this complex project in a way that’s easy to understand.
Read more and watch a short video here.











In brief

Luminato announces its 2016 programming
This June, Luminato will celebrate its 10th anniversary by temporarily transforming one of the waterfront’s most iconic buildings – The Hearn Generating Station. From June 10-26, the global multi-arts festival will #takeoverthehearn with a free and ticketed program of local and international artists including three exclusive North American engagements: The National Theatre of Scotland’s 5-star epic trilogy The James PlaysSituation Rooms – a multiplayer video installation; and the return of the two-day rave Unsound Toronto. For more information about Luminato 2016, visit the website.

Creating and Restoring Natural Habitat Along Our Waterfront
Creating and restoring aquatic and terrestrial habitat is an important part of waterfront revitalization. In our recent blog post, we take a look at Waterfront Toronto’s commitment to improving the health and diversity of natural systems and species, and restoring the quality of our lake’s water and shoreline. Learn more here.

Bringing Toronto’s Waterfront to Life with Arts and Culture
Last October, Toronto’s all-night celebration of contemporary art, Nuit Blanche, took over our city’s waterfront for the first time with thirteen temporary art installations spanning Parliament Street to Harbourfront Centre on Queens Quay. As we look towards the reopening of the West Don Lands later this spring, our thoughts increasingly turn to how events like this can bring our waterfront parks and public spaces to life. Check out our recent blog. 

Update to our homepage
When you visit our website, you will now find an easy link to the Board of Directors and Board Committee Meeting Materials on our homepage. This will make it easier to find important Board related information directly from our homepage and allows you to expand a full list to all documents. It also acts as a reminder of the various ways you can access materials – through our online calendar, document library, on the Board of Director’s web page and through our site’s search function. You can also download an at-a-glance 2016 Board and Committees Meeting Calendar.

Winter Exhibition at Power Plant

For the winter 2016 season, The Power Plant has launched four new exhibitions for you to explore.

Located steps away from the water’s edge, these exhibitions incorporate film, photography, moving image and installations and will be on display until May 15th. Learn more about the exhibition here.

Admission is free.
\

Leslieville Flea Market at Distillery District

Every third Sunday of the month, the Leslieville Flea Market will be taking over the Fermenting Cellar in the historic Distillery District.

Head to the whimsical market to find vintage and handcrafted goods, furniture, antiques, collectables and more in the heart of one of Toronto’s most beloved neighbourhoods.

Open from 10 am to 4 pm

Winter Stations Exhibition

The annual public art competition Winter Stations is back again this year, transforming seven Toronto lifeguard stations into winter-friendly art installations.

Unveiled to the public last week, the winning designs will on display along Toronto’s Balmy, Kew and Ashbridges Bay beaches until March 20.

 


In the Belly of a Bear is one of seven installations created under the theme offreeze/thaw.

A New Archaeology for the Leslie Street Spit

Toronto’s largest constructed breakwater, the Leslie Street Spit, is literally built of rubble from the demolished walls of its lost architectural heritage. Come rediscover Toronto’s urban history through its rubble with new work by artist & landscape architect Ben-Watt Meyer in collaboration with Friends of the Spit.

Check out this Myseum of Toronto exhibition at the Enoch Turner Schoolhouse, March 3-13. More details here.

Exhibition hours of operation: Thursday-Sunday 12:00pm - 6:00pm

Project update: East Bayfront


Looking east towards ongoing construction at Bayside. 


Bayside Toronto
Work is complete on the storm system in East Bayfront. Once additional testing is done, water lines will be connected to Queens Quay East. 
Queens Quay East
Bonnycastle 
Ongoing work at the Parkside development requires that the northbound lane on Bonnycastle Street remain closed. Access from Queens Quay is currently limited due to ongoing underground work. When that work is completed, northbound cars will be able to travel more easily along Bonnycastle from Queens Quay.

East Bayfront Essential External Servicing Infrastructure
Work on the new Sanitary Pumping Station, located at the foot of Cherry Street at Lake Shore Boulevard East, continues. The concrete structure is complete, and mechanical and electrical work is underway.

Work on the deep sanitary trunk sewer on Queens Quay East from Bonnycastle Street to Small Street is complete. The installation of the storm sewer from Bonnycastle to 100 metres east of Bonnycastle is also complete. Excavation is now underway for the remaining section of storm sewer east to Small Street.

The final piece of work at this location involves installing two stormwater forcemains from Bonnycastle Street to Parliament Street. Crews have been unable to start this work due to the condition of an existing watermain on the site. This watermain broke in January, causing a significant delay. To expedite the completion of this work and remove the lane restrictions on Queens Quay, installation of these two stormwater forcemains will be deferred. This work will be included as part of the future development of Queens Quay, at which time the existing watermain will be relocated.

Over the next several weeks, crews will also be completing minor work at the Bonnycastle and Queens Quay intersection.

The storm forcemains will ultimately extend further east to Cherry Street, but for the most part are located outside of the roadway along the east side of Parliament to Lake Shore, and within the south boulevard of Lake Shore East from Parliament to Cherry Street.

On February 17, the northbound lane of Cherry Street from Lake Shore Boulevard to just north of the Lake Shore East Rail Corridor closed to complete the connection of the sanitary forcemain to the existing sanitary sewer just north of the rail corridor. The work is expected to be completed by March 4.

Project update: West Don Lands



Corktown Common – New Northern Entrance
The next time you’re in the neighbourhood you’ll notice these new signs at certain locations around the northern entrance to Corktown Common (beginning at the intersection of River Street and King Street and running along the eastern bank between River City and Bayview Avenue). The signs help explain that while the park looks complete, the wide variety of prairie seed that has been spread needs to be protected while it takes root and grows. The fences are scheduled to come down in June 2016. By then, the prairie will be established and you will be able to enjoy this new part of your neighbourhood park. In the meantime, we appreciate your patience and ask that you kindly refrain from moving the fences and entering the area.
Pan Am Athletes’ Village / Canary District Conversion
The conversion work is progressing quickly in preparation for occupancy this spring.

George Brown College Student Residence
All finishes including carpet, corridor wallpaper, kitchen flooring and suite closets are complete. The installation of terrazzo flooring on the ground level is nearing completion and the final painting is underway.  

Cooper-Koo YMCA
The common area millwork is complete and deficiencies are being corrected.

Fred Victor and Wigwamen
Interior work is substantially complete with minor deficiencies being corrected. Occupancy permits have been received for both buildings in preparation for completion.

Canary District and Canary Park Condominiums
The legacy suites are taking shape with framing and boarding of the wall partitions and related mechanical and electrical rough-in work well underway. In the kitchens, countertops, backsplashes and wood flooring are being installed and new appliances are being received. Line painting and stall numbering has been completed in the parking garage and lockers are being completed. Crews are also working on door surrounds and corridor baseboards. The first residents will begin to move in on April 11, 2016.

In anticipation of the opening this spring, Dundee Kilmer Developments have announced the first group of retailers, including Dark Horse Espresso Bar, Fuel Plus, OpusGlow Concept Spa, Pizza e Pazzi, Tabule, Running Room, Think Fitness and Gears. For more details visit www.canarydistrict.com/retail.

For more information on the award winning Canary District or to view the live construction feed visit their website at www.canarydistrict.com or the presentation centre and four model suites located at 398 Front Street (parking available off Trinity Street).

Cooper Koo Family YMCA

This May, the YMCA of Greater Toronto will open its newest Centre of Community, the Cooper Koo Family Cherry Street YMCA. With developers in the final stages of converting the buildings that served as the Pan / Parapan Am Games Athletes’ Village into their legacy use, eyes are focused on the Cooper Koo Family YMCA as it puts the final touches on the 82,000 square foot facility. The state-of-the-art space will offer an array of programs to the community including Health & Fitness, Day Camps, Community Programs, and a 30,000 square foot green roof.

The West Don Lands, including the Canary District, and other neighbourhoods around the new YMCA, will have the opportunity to experience free programming leading up to the Y’s Community Celebration and Open House taking place May 28 and 29. During this celebration visitors will have an opportunity to tour the new Centre of Community, speak with Y staff, and take part in fun activities and programming.

In the meantime, as the days draw ever closer, be sure to stay in touch, read the YMCAblog, consider contacting them to get involved as a volunteer by emailingCooperKoo.CherrySt@ymcagta.org, and take part in the program schedule survey.

To stay on top of it all, sign up for updates at ymcagta.org/torontocherry

Cherry Street Sanitary Forcemain
On February 17, the northbound lane of Cherry Street from Lake Shore Boulevard to just north of the Lake Shore East Rail Corridor closed to complete the connection of the sanitary forcemain to the existing sanitary sewer just north of the rail corridor. The work is expected to be completed by March 4.

Cherry Street Transit
The TTC is reviewing customer feedback to the initial proposal for route changes in the Pape/Carlaw-to-downtown corridor and is finalizing its recommendations for TTC Board approval at its meeting in March 2016. Streetcar service on Cherry Street is currently planned to begin on June 19, 2016. In the interim, 172 Cherry Street service will be extended to Cherry Beach starting May 8, 2016 in the evenings, Monday to Friday, and all day Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.



news from our new blue edge

Public Notice

Jack Layton Ferry Terminal Public Meeting



Rendering of the winning design by KPMB Architects, West 8, and Greenberg Consultants 

We invite you to attend a public meeting to provide feedback on the master plan for the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and Harbour Square Park.

Waterfront Toronto launched an innovative design competition in partnership with the City of Toronto in November 2014. In addition to a master plan, the scope of work for this competition included a phasing plan which would allow City agencies to develop appropriate strategies for funding the work.

We have held one public meeting to date, during the innovative design competition. At the upcoming public meeting, we will be providing an update on the refined master plan and an overview of the phased approach to delivering this master plan, focusing on the proposed phase 1 design.

The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and Harbour Square Park occupy prime waterfront space at the end of two of Toronto’s most important streets: Bay Street and Yonge Street. This site has the potential to be a signature public space: more functional, more accessible, more beautiful, and more connected to Toronto’s downtown, both physically and visually. This new master plan will deliver an iconic Ferry Terminal with a more efficient queuing area connected to an enhanced Harbour Square Park. The site will promote continuous waterfront access and will provide universal access for people of all ages and abilities.

Your participation and ideas are important and will help shape the future of the Ferry Terminal site.
Public Meeting Details

Date: Tuesday January 26, 2016
Time: Presentation and Facilitated Discussions 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8 at Brigantine Room at Harbourfront Centre (major intersection is Queens Quay West and Lower Simcoe Street)
Map: Click here.
Transit: Closest TTC subway station is Union Station. Take the 509 Harbourfront streetcar or the 510 Spadina streetcar to Harbourfront Centre. Walk west on the south side of Queens Quay to Harbourfront Centre at Lower Simcoe Street. Please use the TTC trip planner for additional options.
Parking: Paid parking is available underground at Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay West) and above-ground one block west on Queens Quay West at Rees Street.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessibility is at the main entrance.

To learn more about the project please visit:
http://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/ferry_terminal_design_competition

For more information, or to be added to the project mailing list, please contact: 
Mira Shenker, Waterfront Toronto
20 Bay Street, Suite 1310, Toronto, ON M5J 2N8
Tel: 416-214-1344 ext.264 Fax: 416-214-4591
Email: info@waterfrontoronto.ca
Website: www.waterfrontoronto.ca
news from our new blue edge

Public Notice

Help decide the future of the Gardiner Expressway East



The study area for the EA is displayed on the map above.

We invite you to join us at an upcoming public meeting where you can comment on the results on the evaluation of the alternative designs for the Hybrid option for the future of the Gardiner Expressway East.

The Study
Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto are jointly carrying out the Gardiner Expressway / Lake Shore Boulevard Reconfiguration Environmental Assessment (EA) and Integrated Urban Design Study. The EA will determine the future of the Gardiner Expressway East and Lake Shore Boulevard East, from approximately Jarvis Street to approximately Leslie Street. The study area for the EA is displayed on the map above.

The Hybrid option was endorsed by Toronto City Council as the preferred alternative for the Gardiner Expressway East on June 11, 2015. The upcoming public meeting will present the results on the evaluation of the alternative designs for the Hybrid option, as well as urban design concepts for the study area.

How to Participate
You can attend the upcoming public meeting or participate online. If you are unable to attend the meeting in person, you can watch a live webcast of the meeting at www.gardinereast.ca and submit your feedback online.

Gardiner Expressway East Public Meeting Details

Date: Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Time: 6:30p.m. – 9:00p.m., Open house begins at 6:30p.m.; presentations at 7:00p.m.
Location: The Bram & Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street, Toronto (Bloor Street subway station)
Parking: Paid - parking lots on Cumberland Avenue, Asquith Ave and Church Street.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessibility is at the main entrance.
Please register at: http://gardinerexpresswayeastpublicmeeting5.eventbrite.ca

For more information or to be added to the project mailing list, contact
info@gardinereast.ca, or call (416) 479-0662.

To learn more about the project please visit www.gardinereast.ca or follow us on Twitter @GardinerEast


news from our new blue edge

November-December 2015

Our Founding CEO John Campbell Retires


John Campbell gets a little help at the June 2015 opening of the new Queens Quay. Toronto’s biggest ribbon cutting ever included all project stakeholders and government partners, and over 1,000 community members.


This December, our founding CEO John Campbell will retire. Reflecting on his 13 years at the helm of Waterfront Toronto, John has stressed that revitalization work is far from done. The revitalization of our waterfront is a long-term project that reached a tipping point with the opening of the new Queens Quay. The revitalized main waterfront street delivers a vibrant, accessible, and welcoming public space at the water’s edge.
John told CBC’s Matt Galloway that the accomplishment he’s most proud of is what you don’t see: “We have helped build a city-building capacity in the public. Public engagement helps us build the waterfront – people don’t see that, but it’s one of the biggest legacies we leave.”

John’s leadership has enabled great design on the waterfront. At the December 9 meeting of our Design Review Panel, John thanked our expert panelists for helping us create quality of life through superior design. He told the panel that he’s merely the conductor to a talented orchestra of designers and planners. To this, panel member Peter Busby replied, “Have you ever heard an orchestra without a conductor? It’s not so great.”

When John retires, he will be passing the conductor’s baton to Will Fleissig. Will was announced as Waterfront Toronto’s new CEO on December 14. Will, from San Francisco, has a long career in development, planning and urban design, and will lead Waterfront Toronto into its second phase of waterfront revitalization. “John has set a high bar and I will look to continue at that level,” said Will at this week’s announcement.

An architect, urban planner and policy advisor, Will understands the planning and design process and is considered an authority on community engagement and transit-oriented development. For Will, this role is the culmination of his thirty years’ experience in real estate development, urban design and planning, public finance and environmental stewardship. “This is not just another redevelopment project,” he said. “This is truly one of the most amazing opportunities worldwide to change the way we do development and planning.”

Read more about this announcement here

How You Can Get Involved in Project: Under Gardiner


This new public space initiative will transform the space under the Gardiner Expressway. 

Last month, Waterfront Toronto along with the City of Toronto and the Matthews Foundation announced an exciting new initiative, temporarily named Project: Under Gardiner. A generous philanthropic gift from Judy and Wil Matthews will fund the transformation of a 1.75-kilometre stretch of underused land beneath the Gardiner Expressway, from Strachan Avenue to Spadina Avenue, into a completely re-imagined place for people. Watch a trailer for the project here.

It’s an exciting new project and there are opportunities coming up that will allow everyone to get involved. Read this blog post to find three ways you can get involved right now.











Nuit Port Lands Public Consultation 


Community members gathered at George Brown College's Waterfront Campus for the Port Lands Public Consultation Open House.

Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto continue to work on a series of plans that will guide the evolution of the Port Lands. Located just east of Toronto’s downtown, the Port Lands represent a major opportunity for waterfront revitalization. Roughly the same size as downtown Toronto, our plan is to transform this underutilized industrial area into complete and vibrant communities. Creating a mix of residential and commercial buildings – amidst the bustle of the film industry and an active port – and strengthening connections to the city core, will turn the Port Lands into Toronto’s newest destination.

On Saturday, November 14, Waterfront Toronto, the City and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority hosted an open house at which key findings, emerging directions and preferred solutions were presented. Public input and comment was then sought at two evening workshop meetings. More than 130 people attended the open house and a variety of information sessions and engaged in individual conversations with project team members at the display boards. Over 100 people joined the two workshops. The period for feedback closed on November 27, however, all of the public consultation materials remain available. Read more here.

You can also check out this short video, which helps explain some of the challenges and opportunities presented by the Port Lands.











Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Report



On December 7, we published the first update to our Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Report. The report provides important information on waterfront revitalization by examining our vision for sustainability and reviewing our performance. Progress is quantified using a triple bottom line approach – measuring achievements not by economics alone, but also through measurable environmental and social improvements.

The following are just a few of the results that we are particularly proud to include:
  • Four LEED® Gold buildings completed and several more under design and construction or under review by the Canada Green Building Council;
  • Over 3,600 trees planted;
  • 108,920 square metres of aquatic habitat created;
  • An average 90 per cent waste diversion rate for construction and demolition debris;
  • 25 new or improved parks and public spaces;
  • 496 affordable housing units built and another 80 units under construction;
  • Seven public art installations completed;
  • Attracting private sector investment, including 1,405 residential market units built and another 1,500 units under construction, and approximately 1 million square feet of commercial space;
  • More than 28 kilometres of critical infrastructure constructed, including new watermains, sanitary and stormwater sewers; and
  • Generating $3.2 billion in economic output for the Canadian economy, $622 million in government revenues and 16,200 full-time person years of employment. 

For a better understanding of why this type of reporting is important you can read thisblog.











In brief

How to make the most of winter on the waterfront
Winter has officially arrived and there are still lots of exciting things to do and see along the water’s edge. Whether you’re searching for some family-friendly activities or would rather unwind outdoors, the waterfront has something for everyone. Here’s how to make the most of winter on Toronto’s waterfront.

Public Meeting on the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal project: January 26
In March 2015, we unveiled five design concepts for the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and Harbour Square Park. We received lots of feedback on the proposals during the design competition. A Stakeholder Advisory Committee was also formed to generate a report for the competition jury with feedback on all five designs. In April 2015, the winning team was announced and work began to refine the master plan for this site. In addition to refining the master plan based on stakeholder and public feedback, the winning design team of West 8, KPMB and Greenberg Consultants is now working to define phase 1. The master plan, along with plans for phase 1, will be presented at a public meeting on January 26, 2016. Visit our event calendar for more information.

Check out this blog post showing how much the Central Waterfront and Ferry Terminal have changed over the years.

East Bayfront Public Art Master Plan Approved by Toronto City Council 
This December, Toronto City Council approved our Public Art Master Plan for the East Bayfront precinct. The master plan applies the key principles of the waterfront public art program and builds on the success of the West Don Lands Public Art Strategy to forge new partnerships and funding. The plan sets out a three-part program that uses art as a magnet to draw people down to the waterfront, attach the identity of the lake to neighborhood, attach the neighbourhood to the downtown and knit together the different blocks in East Bayfront. The first component of the Public Art Program for East Bayfront is Light Showers, completed in 2011 and installed in Sherbourne Common. In 2016, we will announce a new artwork concept for Bayside’s Aitken Place Park. 

Read the full East Bayfront Public Art Strategy here.

The Evergreen Winter Market

Throughout the month of December, Evergreen Brick Works is celebrating the holiday season with the Evergreen Winter Market. Come enjoy delicious foods, holiday drinks, live music and theatre, a unique selection of handmade gifts, and lots of outdoor activities for all ages. Bonus: admission is free!


Check out the full schedule for the Evergreen Winter Market.
\

New exhibition at the Museum of Inuit Art

The Museum of Inuit Art has announced a special new exhibit on the Toronto waterfront this winter.

Since opening in November, Beyond Aurora Borealis: Abraham Anghik Ruben has captivated visitors with 24 spectacular works by the contemporary Inuk artist, including new works specially commissioned for the Museum of Inuit Art show.

 

Don’t miss the chance to see this exciting new exhibit this winter.

The Toronto Christmas Market

The beloved Toronto Christmas Market has returned again for its sixth year in the heart of the Historic Distillery District. On now until December 20th, this event recreates the magic of traditional European Christmas markets and offers family-friendly entertainment, delicious seasonal food and drinks, and a 50-foot Christmas tree at the centre of the square. 

 


Admission to the Toronto Christmas Market is free Tuesday-Friday, and $5 on Saturdays and Sundays.

Public Meeting: Help Decide the Future of the Gardiner Expressway East

We invite you to join us at an upcoming public meeting where you can comment on the results of the evaluation of alternative designs for the Hybrid option for the future Gardiner Expressway East.

If you are unable to attend, you can watch a live webcast of the meeting at www.gardinereast.ca and submit your feedback online.  

Public Meeting Details
Date: Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Time: 6:30pm to 9:00pm
Location: The Bram and Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library
789 Yonge Street, Toronto

Project update: East Bayfront


Looking east towards ongoing construction at Bayside. 


Bayside Toronto
Work is complete on the storm system. Once additional testing is done, water lines will be connected to Queens Quay East. 
Queens Quay East
Bonnycastle 
Ongoing work at the Parkside development requires that the northbound lane on Bonnycastle Street remain closed. Access from Queens Quay is currently limited due to ongoing underground work. When that work is completed, northbound cars will be able to travel more easily along Bonnycastle from Queens Quay.

East Bayfront Essential External Servicing Infrastructure
Work on the new Sanitary Pumping Station, located at the foot of Cherry Street at Lake Shore Boulevard East, continues. The concrete structure is complete, and mechanical and electrical work is underway.

Work on the sanitary trunk sewer from Bonnycastle Street and Queens Quay East to the sewage pumping station is temporarily halted. This work involves rebuilding the existing storm sewer from Bonnycastle to Small Street and installing twin storm forcemains from Bonnycastle to Parliament Street. Dewatering has been completed and crews will begin more extensive work upon receipt of final approvals. This work will continue into early 2016. While this work is being completed, westbound lanes on the north side of Queens Quay between Small and Bonnycastle Streets will remain closed. East-west traffic will flow along the south side of Queens Quay. Special construction notices will be circulated to local residents and businesses as new information becomes available.

The storm forcemains will extend further east to Cherry Street, but for the most part are located outside of the roadway along the east side of Parliament to Lake Shore, and within the south boulevard of Lake Shore East from Parliament to Cherry Street.

Now that final approvals from various agencies have been received, work has begun on the sanitary forcemain from the sanitary pumping station, north on Cherry Street to just north of the Lake Shore East rail corridor. This work requires the closure of a short section of the northbound lane of Cherry Street, from Lakeshore to just north of the rail corridor. Work is anticipated to be complete by year end. For more details about this closure, please refer to this construction notice (PDF).

Project update: West Don Lands


Fall colours at Corktown Common next to the Canary District in the West Don Lands.


Corktown Common
Landscaping has been completed at the northern entrance to Corktown Common (located at the intersection of River Street and King Street) and a pathway has been created under the bridge and along the eastern bank behind River City that will offer another connection to the park. While the area may look complete, the fencing remains in place while the City of Toronto prepares to assume this part of the park and to allow ample time for the variety of prairie seed that has been spread to establish. The friction caused by moving the fencing, pets ‘answering nature’s call’ and people walking on the seeded areas can damage the grass and other plantings. So, tempting as it may be to move or squeeze between the fencing to take a stroll, we ask for patience while the park grows.
Canary District
The conversion of the former Athletes’ Village to the Canary District is progressing quickly in anticipation of the Spring 2016 occupancy.

George Brown College Student Residence
Temporary walls are being removed, flooring and kitchen millwork is being installed, and painting is underway after which the carpeting will be installed.  

Cooper-Koo YMCA
Partial demolition of walls and ceilings has been completed and the construction of the new walls is underway as well as painting.

Fred Victor and Wigwamen
Temporary partitions and bathrooms are being removed and permanent walls and doorways are being constructed with painting taking place concurrently. Electrical work is also being roughed-in and work has begun installing the wood floors and kitchens.

Canary District and Canary Park Condominiums
Demolition of the temporary partitions is well underway. Once complete, framing and boarding for the permanent walls will begin. Mechanical and electrical rough-in, and kitchen and wood flooring installation are progressing. The installation of level storage lockers in the parking garage is also underway.

In anticipation of the Canary District opening in the Spring of 2016, Dundee Kilmer Developments have announced the first group of retailers in this neighbourhood, which includes Dark Horse Espresso Bar, Fuel Plus, OpusGlow Concept Spa, Pizza e Pazzi, Tabule, Running Room, Think Fitness and Gears. For more information please visitwww.canarydistrict.com/retail.

For more information on the award winning Canary District or to view the live construction feed visit www.canarydistrict.com or the presentation centre and model suites located at 398 Front Street (parking available off Trinity Street).

Cherry Street
Now that final approvals from various agencies have been received, work has begun on the sanitary forcemain from the sanitary pumping station, north on Cherry Street to just north of the Lake Shore East rail corridor. This work requires the closure of a short section of the northbound lane of Cherry Street, from Lakeshore to just north of the rail corridor. Work is anticipated to be complete by year end. For more details about this closure, please refer to this construction notice (PDF).

Cherry Street Transit
The TTC recently conducted an online survey about proposed changes to the 72 Pape and 172 Cherry Street routes, as well as the pending Cherry Street streetcar service. In early 2014, the 72 Pape route was split in the Port Lands due to major construction activity around Union Station. Now that construction is complete, the TTC is reviewing these services as a whole, in conjunction with new streetcar service on Cherry Street and continued development in East Bayfront. The proposed changes detailed in the survey include:
  • Reinstating direct service between Pape Avenue/Carlaw Avenue and downtown;
  • Supplementing existing service to George Brown College Waterfront Campus;
  • Introducing new service to East Bayfront on Queens Quay East and to CityPlace, west of Spadina Avenue.

The survey closed on December 14 and received over 1,000 responses. The TTC will be integrating the feedback into their route analysis in the new year and is aiming for implementation in May 2016.

news from our new blue edge

Public Notice




The City of Toronto and Waterfront Toronto are nearing the completion of a series of plans that will guide the transformation of the Port Lands and better connect the Port Lands and South of Eastern areas. Public input has played a key role in shaping the plans to date. We are again inviting your participation to help to refine and shape the final plans. A final public consultation meeting is being held to present findings from three concurrent
studies – the Port Lands Planning Framework, Villiers Island Precinct Plan and the Port Lands and South of Eastern Transportation and Servicing Master Plan Environmental Assessment (EA).

Open House: Presentations and Information Sessions 
November 14, 2015
George Brown College, Waterfront Campus, 51 Dockside Drive
Session 1: 9:00am to 12:00pm
Session 2: 1:00pm to 4:00pm

Workshop: Placemaking in the Port Lands
November 17, 2015
Morse Street Junior Public School, 180 Carlaw Avenue
6:30pm - 9:00pm

Workshop: Connecting the Port Lands + South of Eastern Areas
November 18, 2015
Toronto Fire Academy - EMS Training Centre, 895 Eastern Avenue
6:30pm - 9:00pm

Given the amount and complexity of information, this consultation will be a
two-step process. Key findings, emerging directions and preferred solutions will be presented at an open house running throughout the day on November 14, 2015, with presentations and information sessions recurring in the morning and afternoon. Public input and comment will then be sought at two evening workshop meetings on November 17, 2015 and November 18, 2015.

If you are unable to attend the meetings in person, you can participate online at
portlandsconsultation.ca. If you have specific accommodation requirements, please
email info@waterfrontoronto.ca or call 416-214-1344 ext. 248.

After the open house, the presentations and information, including video recordings, will be
made available on portlandsconsultation.ca and feedback can be provided by completing an online discussion guide. If you wish to receive further information on the plans or be added to a mailing list, please contact:

Cassidy Ritz, City of Toronto
Project Manager, City Planning Division
Tel: 416-397-4487
Email: portlands@toronto.ca
Amanda Santo, Waterfront Toronto
Director, Development Approvals
Tel: 416-214-1344 ext. 292
Email: asanto@waterfrontoronto.ca

During the planning process for the above studies, the City of Toronto and Waterfront Toronto will be collecting comments and information from the public under the authority of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, s. 136© and the Planning Act, 1990. Personal information collected will be maintained in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Privacy Protection Act and may be used to provide updates on this file. Questions about the collection of this information can be directed to the City Planning Division, City of Toronto.

Issue Date: November 2, 2015
Please click here for a printable version of this notice.



news from our new blue edge

July 2015

 

One Step Closer to Unlocking the Port Lands


Overhead view of Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project.

On July 14, at a park overlooking Toronto’s harbour and city skyline, Waterfront Toronto and its government partners announced $5 million in funding to complete due diligence work on the proposal to naturalize the mouth of the Don River. Returning the mouth of the Don to a more natural state offers many benefits – providing critical flood protection to the area and unlocking significant economic development potential in the Port Lands including the former Unilever site, where developer First Gulf is proposing a major new mixed-use development. While two key studies have already been completed (the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project Environmental Assessment and the Lower Don Lands Environmental Assessment), the due diligence work being undertaken by Waterfront Toronto will provide greater certainty on the costs and risks associated with the project thereby allowing our government partners to confirm funding decisions for this transformational plan. Learn more about what this proposal means...














 




Opening Your New Queens Quay



On June 19th we were joined by thousands of Toronto residents and visitors for the grand opening of the revitalized Queens Quay.

Last month we celebrated the official opening of the revitalized Queens Quay with our government partners, media and over 1,000 community members, project partners and stakeholders. People from all over the city came together for this unique ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the waterfront’s new boulevard. Together they created a 650-metre blue wave by supporting a blue ribbon that stretched from York Street to HTO Park – almost the entire length of the revitalized Queens Quay. Read more about the grand opening…














 




A Virtual Tour of New Public Art in the West Don Lands

Check out the new public art that has been installed in Toronto's West Don Lands neighbourhood!

Our art program is attracting some serious talent. Commissions by high-calibre Canadian and international artists are drawing attention and showcasing the benefit of big-picture art planning. Today, the artworks comprising Phase 1 of the ambitious West Don Lands Public Art Strategy are complete (or very near completion). While the public may not be able to encounter most of them in person until the site reopens to the public in spring 2016, we couldn’t resist showing them to you now. There are currently six new artworks in the neighbourhood, with another one on the way. Get introduced to your new neighbours...
 

 












 




What We’re Doing to Improve Queens Quay


The new pedestrian promenade and Martin Goodman Trail have become well used public amenities since the official opening last month.

People have been out enjoying the summer – and the new Queens Quay. We’ve heard lots of positive feedback on the new street. We’ve also received constructive feedback about how the new Queens Quay can be even better. We’re taking that feedback seriously and are also observing the street ourselves every day.

Based on what we’re hearing and seeing, it seems that some drivers, pedestrians and cyclists aren’t heeding the standard signs, signals and line painting that are there to guide them through the street’s new intersections and driveways. So, we’re working on a few small changes to make these cues even more clear and to make the street as safe as possible.

All of the new intersections, signals and signage have been designed collaboratively with the City of Toronto and TTC, and are in line with the Ministry of Transportation’s rules and guidelines. What we’re doing now is looking at ways to reinforce existing regulatory signs and signals to make sure no driver, pedestrian or cyclist is confused about the rules. Read here for a list of changes we’re implementing on Queens Quay.














 




In brief

Ontario Place Urban Park and Trail
The Province of Ontario has unveiled plans for a new urban park and waterfront trail on the eastern edge of Ontario Place. The trail was dedicated in the name of William G. Davis who was Premier when Ontario Place first opened in 1971. Waterfront Toronto led the public consultation and managed the design processes on behalf of the Province. Site demolition is already underway and the park will be completed by fall 2016. Read more about it and see the before and after pictures...

Exchanging Ideas on Planning and Design in a Changing Climate
On May 28 to 29, we co-hosted the Canadian – Netherlands Resilient Cities Summit together with the Dutch Consulate. Experts from both countries shared ideas and discussed topics including urban flood protection, the management and re-use of soil and sediment, how to achieve more community resilience, and the importance of a regional resilience strategy. Read more...

Underpass Park Murals Unveiled
Murals on 18 interior pillars of Underpass Park were unveiled last week, created as part of the StreetART Underpass Project at the Live Art Festival. The project was led by Mural Routes and was also part of the Pan Am Path Art Relay. Read more about the project and see stunning images...

Waterfront T-Shirts Now Available
Last month, we announced the winning designs of our t-shirt design competition, held in partnership with Spacing Magazine. The winning designs were selected from over 75 submissions by Canadian illustrators and designers. A portion of the proceeds from the sales will go to support local charity Park People, which advocates for community engagement and stewardship of parks and public spaces. The shirts are now available at Spacing’s retail store located at 401 Richmond Street West and online...

See the Latest Designs for Aitken Place Park
At a community update meeting  this month, we updated members of the public on the design for Aitken Place Park, East Bayfront’s newest park, located in the Bayside Development. The park’s design evolved after we received feedback from the public earlier this spring. If you couldn't make it to the meeting, you can view the presentation...






Pan Am Games: Ontario’s Celebration Zone

Come celebrate the Pam Am Games at the water’s edge with Ontario’s Celebration Zone at Toronto's Harbourfront Centre. Featuring 38 days of the best of Ontario, with over 500 free events and activities, visitors can experience diverse cultural, culinary, arts and sport programming.

Highlights include: nightly concerts, theatre and dance productions, celebrity chef demonstrations and a weekly farmers' market, Latino-Hispanic and Caribbean events, performances featuring artists with disabilities, First Nations and Francophone showcases, water-based sport demonstrations, an accessible 400-foot zip line and more than 100 family-friendly activities and shows. See the list of full programming.



Image
With a spectacular waterfront destination at Canada Square, Ontario's Celebration Zone offers unique and interactive experiences for all to enjoy from July 10 to August 15.




Sail-in Cinema™ Returns to the Water’s Edge

The waterfront’s only movie theatre on a barge is back at Sugar Beach this year for both land-lovers and boaters to enjoy. From August 20 to 22 watch 80s classics on the world’s first two-sided floating movie screen under the open skies. Register for your free Landlubber tickets before they’re gone and don't forget to bring a chair, a cushion or a picnic blanket. If you’re using your sea legs come by boat and simply drop anchor. Learn more and get your free tickets here.



Image
Sail-In Cinema™ is now a permanent fixture on Toronto’s summer calendar. (Image courtesy of Toronto Port Authority’s Sail-In Cinema and image credits Oneword Photography).




Construction update: Queens Quay Revitalization


This new street only works if drivers, cyclists and pedestrians obey the rules. Pedestrians, cyclists and drivers should be cautious when using an unfamiliar street. Everyone on the street should be observing signs and pavement markings and driving, walking or cycling with caution and courtesy. This slideshow puts some basic traffic rules in the context of the new Queens Quay.

Construction is complete and we’re now in a period of commissioning and adjustment. Crews will be on the new Queens Quay this summer making minor repairs, including tweaking the new signalization system, making minor modifications to intersections and/or signage, and perfecting granite and landscaping.

Martin Goodman Trail West
This section of the Martin Goodman Trail between Bathurst Street and Stadium Road is complete. Crews have been making some minor adjustments. More details can be found in this list of changes we’re implementing on Queens Quay.

Queens Quay Webcams
Keep an eye on your new Queens Quay this summer from your computer or mobile device using our Queens Quay Webcams.

Sign up to receive notices about Queens Quay on the Queens Quay West webpage. If you have questions about this project, send an email to info@waterfrontoronto.ca or call 416-214-9990. 
 





Construction update: East Bayfront


Looking east at the water’s edge. Crews are making steady progress at Bayside.


Bayside Toronto
Bayside municipal services are already completed below the new local street (Merchants’ Wharf) including a temporary water connection on Queens Quay. Now, all paving is nearing completion. The area surrounding the stormwater holding tank will be finished by the end of July. Granite mosaic pavement, tree planting and installation of street furniture and street lighting along the Water’s Edge Promenade were completed last month. Sequence programming for the operation of the storm system is in progress and final commissioning is targeted for completion in August.  
Temporary Fencing at Sherbourne Common: The temporary fencing that was erected on the north side of Sherbourne Common, partially closing off the west side of the water feature, has now been removed. Crews were replacing pavement in that area. 

Queens Quay East: Interim Improvements
Work at the Merchants' Wharf/Queens Quay intersection is slated to be complete by the end of July, at which point the sidewalk and Martin Goodman Trail will be clear. Line painting for the Martin Goodman Trail between Lower Jarvis and Parliament is scheduled to begin as soon as that intersection is clear.

East Bayfront Essential External Servicing Infrastructure
Work continues on the new Sanitary Pumping Station, located at the foot of Cherry Street at Lake Shore Boulevard East. The concrete structure is complete, the installation of hatches and ladders is underway, and mechanical and electrical work is expected to start in the next four to six weeks. Construction of the sanitary trunk sewer from Bonnycastle Street and Queens Quay to the sewage pumping station is now 90 per cent complete. The sanitary forcemain from the sanitary pumping station, north on Cherry Street to just north of the Lake Shore East rail corridor, will be built after the Pan Am and Parapan Am Games.






Construction update: West Don Lands

Pan Am Athletes’ Village/Canary District
With the Pan Am Games underway and the athletes in residence, there’s little in the way of our typical construction update that can be provided. So, we’re taking a different approach to the update this month. Before the athletes arrived, media were invited to tour the village. Following are few links to pieces that we though you may find interesting.


Ribbon cutting including representatives from Waterfront Toronto, the City of Toronto, the federal and provincial governments and featuring residents. (Photo credit: Toronto Community Housing)

Toronto Community Housing
On June 29, Waterfront Toronto helped celebrate the official opening of the three building Toronto Community Housing complex in the West Don Lands. The complex offers 243 new affordable rental homes for seniors and families at the corner of King Street and River Street. Representatives from the Governments of Canada and Ontario and the City of Toronto, were on hand together with invited guests and residents to mark the occasion with speeches and an official ribbon-cutting. Check out the Facebook photo album.

River City
As Phase 2 of River City continues to progress, this complex has been garnering an increasing amount of attention. This article by Urban Toronto provides a great description with images of Phases I and II and also offers a glimpse of Phase III (currently in pre-sales but not yet broken ground).

Woonerfs
Completion of the woonerfs (also known as Trolley Crescent) is expected early in the autumn once the exterior construction of River City is done. The remaining work includes soft landscaping, boulevard trees, irrigation, bike rings, benches and traffic signage. We are working with River City and Toronto Community Housing to introduce parking rules and an enforcement program for the woonerfs that will help to minimize the amount and duration of parking and further facilitate the installation of the final finishes.





 









news from our new blue edge

Public Notice

 

Help decide the future of the Gardiner Expressway East


The study area for the EA is displayed on the map above.

We invite you to join us at two upcoming public meetings where you can comment on the current phase of the Environmental Assessment on the future of the Gardiner Expressway East.

The Study
Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto are jointly carrying out the Gardiner Expressway / Lake Shore Boulevard Reconfiguration Environmental Assessment (EA) and Integrated Urban Design Study. The EA will determine the future of the Gardiner Expressway East and Lake Shore Boulevard East, from approximately Jarvis Street to approximately Leslie Street.

The four alternative solutions that have been considered to date are:
  • Maintain the elevated expressway;
  • Improve the urban fabric while maintaining the existing expressway;
  • Replace with a new above-or-below grade expressway; and,
  • Remove the elevated expressway and build a new boulevard.

In the last phase of the EA, the evaluation of the alternative solutions concluded that the remove option best met the evaluation criteria. Following direction from the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee of Toronto City Council, the upcoming public meeting will share the results of the following work:
  1. Review the remove option under the EA process to mitigate concerns about traffic congestion
  2. Prepare an additional hybrid option that combines the maintain and replace components to preserve expressway linkage and functionality between the Gardiner Expressway and the Don Valley Parkway, and evaluates it against the EA criteria and the following:
  • Transportation functionality;
  • Impacts on key economic sectors;
  • Cost benefit;
  • Future land use considerations;
  • Public transit components;
  • Environmental impact; and
  • Neighbourhood growth and compatibility.

Get Involved
Interested persons are invited to participate through two upcoming public meetings, one of which will be webcast, and online opportunities. If you can’t attend in person, you can participate and watch the meeting online – and at any time afterwards – at www.gardinereast.ca.

Gardiner Expressway East Public Meeting (Downtown)
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Bram & Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library 789 Yonge Street, Toronto (Bloor Street subway station)
Open house begins at 6:30 p.m.; presentations at 7:00 p.m.
Please register at: gardinereapublicmeetingdowntownapril15.eventbrite.ca

Gardiner Expressway East Public Meeting (Scarborough)
Monday, April 20, 2015
6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Blessed Cardinal Newman H.S. Cafeteria 100 Brimley Rd S, Toronto
Open house begins at 6:30 p.m.; presentations at 7:00 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE THIS MEETING WILL NOT BE WEBCAST
Please register at: gardinereapublicmeetingscarboroughapril20.eventbrite.ca

For more information or to be added to the project mailing list, contact info@gardinereast.ca, or call (416) 479-0662. To learn about the project or contribute your insights and views please visit www.gardinereast.ca.

Information will be collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.
 













 




This notice issued on April 14, 2015


Waterfront Toronto

  Toronto







news from our new blue edge

March 2015

 

Waterfront Toronto to hold Town Hall event April 1


We'll be answering your questions about waterfront revitalization at our Town Hall Meeting this evening at the Toronto Reference Library, starting at 7:00 p.m.

A lot has changed on the waterfront since Waterfront Toronto was formed in 2001. We are at the half way point of our mandate and we’re looking towards the next phase of waterfront revitalization. So we’d like to take this opportunity to present a report on what we’ve accomplished, and give you – the community, our stakeholders and the people who are affected by the changes taking place on our waterfront – the opportunity to share your thoughts.

We’re holding a public town hall tonight, April 1 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Toronto Reference Library. Our President and CEO John Campbell will present a report of what has been achieved to date. For those who can’t join us in person, we’ll be hosting a live webcast where you can watch and interact online. To participate on the live webcast visit livemedia.biz/waterfronttorontotownhall.html.

We’ll open up the floor and give you the opportunity to ask questions, share your views and raise any concerns to Mr. Campbell and members of our senior management team. For more details...

 













 




Innovative Design Competition receives overwhelming public feedback on the five designs


Community members view and discuss the five design proposals that were on display at City Hall during the public exhibition.

In January, five design teams were selected to compete in the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and Harbour Square Park Innovative Design Competition. Since then, the teams have gone through an intensive eight-week design exercise to develop their proposals for the ferry terminal, park and surrounding areas. The goal of the competition was to create an inspiring vision for the long-term transformation of the Ferry Terminal and Harbour Square Park. That vision will be articulated in a master plan for the area that can be phased in over time, as funding and budget become available.

Last month, all five proposals were on exhibition in the Rotunda at Toronto’s City Hall and online from March 16 to 20 and public presentations were given by each team on their design on March 16. There were over 250 people who attended the presentations and we received almost 1,200 responses from members of the public who either filled out comments cards at City Hall or completed our online survey.

All the public comments received have been summarized in a report that will be delivered to the competition jury for consideration, alongside reports from the competition's Stakeholder Advisory Committee and Technical Advisory Committee. Thank you to everyone who provided their feedback! The jury recommendation for the design competition will be announced early April. You can still check out the designs online...

 













 




Help decide the future of the Gardiner Expressway East


The study area for the EA is displayed on the map above.

We invite you to join us at two upcoming public meetings where you can comment on the current phase of the Environmental Assessment on the future of the Gardiner Expressway East.

The Study
Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto are jointly carrying out the Gardiner Expressway / Lake Shore Boulevard Reconfiguration Environmental Assessment (EA) and Integrated Urban Design Study. The EA will determine the future of the Gardiner Expressway East and Lake Shore Boulevard East, from approximately Jarvis Street to approximately Leslie Street.

The four alternative solutions that have been considered to date are:
  • Maintain the elevated expressway;
  • Improve the urban fabric while maintaining the existing expressway;
  • Replace with a new above-or-below grade expressway; and,
  • Remove the elevated expressway and build a new boulevard.

In the last phase of the EA, the evaluation of the alternative solutions concluded that the remove option best met the evaluation criteria. Following direction from the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee of Toronto City Council, the upcoming public meeting will share the results of the following work:
  1. Review the remove option under the EA process to mitigate concerns about traffic congestion
  2. Prepare an additional hybrid option that combines the maintain and replace components to preserve expressway linkage and functionality between the Gardiner Expressway and the Don Valley Parkway, and evaluates it against the EA criteria and the following:
  • Transportation functionality;
  • Impacts on key economic sectors;
  • Cost benefit;
  • Future land use considerations;
  • Public transit components;
  • Environmental impact; and
  • Neighbourhood growth and compatibility.

Get Involved
Interested persons are invited to participate through two upcoming public meetings, one of which will be webcast, and online opportunities. If you can’t attend in person, you can participate and watch the meeting online – and at any time afterwards – at www.gardinereast.ca.

Gardiner Expressway East Public Meeting (Downtown)
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Bram & Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library 789 Yonge Street, Toronto (Bloor Street subway station)
Open house begins at 6:30 p.m.; presentations at 7:00 p.m.
Please register at: gardinereapublicmeetingdowntownapril15.eventbrite.ca

Gardiner Expressway East Public Meeting (Scarborough)
Monday, April 20, 2015
6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Blessed Cardinal Newman H.S. Cafeteria 100 Brimley Rd S, Toronto
Open house begins at 6:30 p.m.; presentations at 7:00 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE THIS MEETING WILL NOT BE WEBCAST
Please register at: gardinereapublicmeetingscarboroughapril20.eventbrite.ca

For more information or to be added to the project mailing list, contact info@gardinereast.ca, or call (416) 479-0662. To learn about the project or contribute your insights and views please visit www.gardinereast.ca.

 













 




Construction update: Queens Quay Revitalization






Over the last month, crews have continued to make progress across the 1.7 km Queens Quay revitalization site. Tents with heating are still in place in several areas so granite installation can continue despite the cold temperatures in anticipation for the June 19 opening festivities.

This month we completed the granite sidewalks on the north side of Queens Quay all the way from RBC Waterpark Place to the Rees Street parking lot. Crews are now working on some additional granite work to the private portion of the sidewalks east of Rees Street. Granite work is also underway between the Rees Street parking lot and Spadina Avenue. The south side granite promenade is mostly completed between Bay and York Streets and is well underway between York and Robertson Crescent.

A significant amount of work is already underway to complete the rebuild of both the Bay Street and York Street intersections. The second phase of the Bay Street intersection work will commence starting April 18 and will require some traffic diversions. More information on this work will be available in our weekly Construction Notice and a special construction notice will be issued.

Toronto Hydro has substantially completed their civil engineering work on Queens Quay. Crews have demobilized but will return to the site after the Pan Am/Parapan Am Games to begin the installation of the new electrical cabling that will service the Queens Quay community.

Martin Goodman Trail West
Work has begun on the Martin Goodman Trail connection west of Yo Yo Ma Lane. In March, a precondition survey was conducted to existing structures and traffic controls have been put in place. Pedestrian access on the north sidewalk of Queens Quay and on the waterfront trail from Dan Leckie to Spadina is being maintained. Starting April 6, there will be some eastbound lane closures during the daytime hours in order to accommodate TTC buffer zone works. Details on this work will be included in our weekly Queens Quay construction notice. Sign-up for notices here.
 



UEE
Image
Queens Quay webcams
Keep an eye on construction from your computer or mobile device using our Queens Quay Webcams.

Need more information?
Thank you for your patience during construction. If you have questions send an email to info@waterfrontoronto.ca or call 416-214-9990.

Sign up for weekly notices
You can sign up for the Queens Quay construction notice on the Queens Quay construction webpage.


Rendering of the new Martin Goodman Trail extension.




Construction update: East Bayfront


An aerial views of the work being done on the new Bayside Toronto community.

Bayside Toronto
Crews continue to work on the infrastructure and public realm required to support the new Bayside Toronto community. Recently the contractor completed the new storm and sanitary sewers, hydrants and water infrastructure within Bayside as well as the new 12-metre diameter concrete structure for the storm water management shaft. Installation of the mechanical equipment, electrical power, and control wiring for the system is ongoing and is targeted for completion in June.

The majority of landscaping has also been completed including installation of street and sidewalk pavers along Merchant's Wharf, wooden street light poles and tree planting. The remaining landscape work next to the new storm water shaft will resume in warmer weather and be completed by summer.

Temporary Fencing at Sherbourne Common: The temporary fencing around the channel south of the Pavilion is expected to be removed later this spring as crews close the electrical conduit trench required for the storm water management construction in Bayside.

Queens Quay East: Interim Improvements
Construction is nearly complete on the installation of a new Martin Goodman Trail and sidewalk between Lower Jarvis and Parliament Streets on the south side of Queens Quay. Over the winter we reconstructed the concrete lids in the south sidewalk at Queens Quay East and Lower Jarvis to address the tripping hazard. The work for the remaining sections of the sidewalk and Martin Goodman Trail east of Lower Sherbourne should resume later this spring.

Bayside Toronto
Work on the sanitary pumping station is progressing well. Steel sheet piles and caissons have been installed and excavation is now complete. Forming and pouring of the concrete structure has begun. Construction of the sanitary trunk sewer to be constructed by micro-tunneling methodology has commenced. Seven of the eight temporary concrete shafts required to launch and receive the micro-tunneling boring machine are complete, and installation of the 900 mm sanitary trunk sewer from the sanitary pumping station is underway.

Construction of the sanitary forcemain from the sanitary pumping station, north on Cherry Street to just north of the Lakeshore East rail corridor, is expected to commence in the next few weeks subject to final City permits. This will require the closure of the northbound lane on Cherry Street from Lake Shore Boulevard East to just north of the rail corridor, for several weeks. More information about this work will be posted on our website, once we have schedule confirmation.
 





Construction update: Pan Am Athletes’ Village/Canary District


View of the Pan Am Athletes' Village/Canary District at dusk.

Last month, we celebrated a major milestone in the West Don Lands  – the completion of construction of the Pan Am/Parapan Am Athletes’ Village. In an official ceremony with our government and private sector partners the revitalization of this beautiful, sustainable new community is one step closer. Utilizing Waterfront Toronto’s West Don Lands Precinct Plan for the Athletes’ Village has proven to be way to create a legacy from hosting the Games. During the Games, the Athletes’ Village will first be home for 10,000 athletes and officials from 41 countries. After the games it will convert into what is was always planned to be, a lively mixed-use neighborhood that offers a range of housing for people at all stages of life and income levels. Click here to learn more about Toronto’s next great neighbourhood.
 





 

Construction update: Toronto Community Housing


A view of the newly opened Tim Hortons.

Toronto Community Housing’s three-building, 243-unit development located at 589 King Street East in the West Don Lands continues to progress, with approximately 90 per cent of all three buildings occupied. The only remaining work is the King Street streetscaping, which is scheduled to resume later this Spring. Work continues on the Medical/Pharmacy space.





 

In brief

Daniels Waterfront - City of the Arts coming to East Bayfront
Last week, our CEO, John Campbell participated in the ground breaking of a new $700 million arts-focused complex that fits our vision for East Bayfront and will bring great value to the entire community. This development leverages the work that we have done in making the area appealing to this type of private sector investment and will use the waterfront-wide ultra-high speed broadband network that is attracting jobs and investment to the waterfront. Read more...

Toronto’s next generation stormwater infrastructure
A new stormwater management system will serve the new neighbourhoods in East Bayfront, the West Don Lands and future communities north of the Keating Channel. This blog post explains the importance of stormwater management and describes the innovative features of the new system. Read more…

Answering your questions about the woonerfs in the West Don Lands
In a recent post on Spacing’s blog, Dylan Reid raises questions about the design of the woonerfs (collectively named ‘Trolley Crescent’) in the West Don Lands. Andrew Tenyenhuis, one of our project managers, addresses those questions and offers some more context and information concerning this new-to-Toronto street design. Read more…

Street art and the politics of public space
In this three-part blog post, we’ve asked "What does it take to make a great street?" and explored a number of factors that contribute to creating a lively, animated street life. Part one explores “The Role of Urban Design,” part two explores “Breathing Life Into Our Streets,” and this third and final part explores “Street Art and the Politics of Public Space.” Read more…
 





World Stage at Harbourfront Centre

As Canada’s most diverse season of international performance, World Stage at Harbourfront Centre brings a bold curatorial vision to Toronto’s performing arts landscape, assembling and presenting performance leaders from around the world. With more than nine international productions running now until June, there is something for family members of all ages to enjoy.



Image
For more information please visit harbourfrontcentre.com/worldstage (photo courtesy of Harbourfront Centre).




Follow Waterfront Toronto on:

Facebook
Twitter
Youtube
Flickr
RSS Feed



waterfrontheader

The next phase of waterfront revitalization

In the first half of our mandate, Waterfront Toronto made significant strides to make our city’s waterfront dream a reality. Remarkable new places to live, work, learn and play are delivering lasting economic and social benefits for the people of Toronto, Ontario and Canada. And, there is still much more to do.
As we move forward on the next phase of revitalization, we want to hear from you. Please join us for a public town hall on Wednesday, April 1, 2015 at the Toronto Reference Library.
Waterfront Toronto’s President and CEO John Campbell will present a review of what has been achieved to date and provide an exciting look ahead to the future of our waterfront. Following the presentation, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and share your views with Mr. Campbell and members of the Waterfront Toronto senior management team.


When: Wednesday, April 1, 2015, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: Bram and Bluma Appel Salon at the Toronto Reference Library [map]
789 Yonge Street
Closest major intersection: Yonge Street and Bloor Street. Located one block north of Bloor Street on the east side of Yonge Street.
Public Transit: TTC subway station Yonge-Bloor. Walk to library north on Yonge Street.
Parking: Paid parking lots on Cumberland Avenue, Asquith Ave and Church Street.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessibility at the main entrance.
If you have specific accommodation requirements, please email info@waterfrontoronto.ca or call 416-214-1344 Extension 276.

Can’t join us in person?
Participate on the live webcast at: www.livemedia.biz/waterfronttorontotownhall.html

For more information, please contact info@waterfrontoronto.ca or 416-214-1344 ext. 276
waterfrontlogo
Header Image


All five design proposals are now on exhibit in the Rotunda at Toronto City Hall until March 20 at 5pm. Join us tonight at City Hall to hear the five shortlisted teams present their innovative ideas for the site.

Members of the public are invited to fill out comment cards to provide their feedback on the five proposals. The proposals are also being exhibited online and feedback is being collected through an online survey. This is your opportunity to review the designs and provide your thoughts and feedback. All the public comments will be summarized in a report that will be delivered to the competition jury for their consideration, alongside reports from the competition's Stakeholder Advisory Committee and Technical Advisory Committee.

How to Provide Your Feedback

Visit the Exhibition at Toronto City Hall
The exhibition is open to the public during City Hall’s open hours, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The exhibition closes at 5pm on Friday, March 20, 2015. When you visit the exhibition, complete a comment card to provide your feedback on the five design proposals. For more details, click here.

View the Proposals Online & Complete an Online Survey
The five proposals are also posted on Waterfront Toronto’s blog, along with an online survey that you can complete to provide your feedback. The deadline for submitting comments online is 12am on the morning of Saturday, March 21, 2015. To view the proposals online, click here.
 
The Public Exhibition: Presentations from the five shortlisted design teams
Date: Monday, March 16, 2015
Time:  6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Toronto City Hall, Rotunda
Location: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5H 2N2
Map:  Click here
Transit: You can take the Yonge Subway Line to Queen or Dundas station or the University/Spadina Subway Line to St. Patrick or Osgoode station. You can also take the #6 Bay bus to Queen Street West, #501 or #502 Queen streetcar to Bay Street, or the #505 Dundas streetcar to Bay Street.
Parking:  Paid parking is available at City Hall. You can enter the parking garage at Bay Street, just north of Queen on the west side or at Queen Street, just west of Bay Street on the north side.
Accessible entrances and ramps: The primary accessible entrance to Toronto City Hall is the Hagerman Street entrance (north entrance). There is a fully accessible ramp and the entry hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you are arriving outside these hours please use the intercom to contact the Security Desk for access. See map for location. The alternative accessible entrance is through the City Hall main centre doors from 7:30a.m. to 9:30 p.m. There are also two fully accessible ramps located along Bay Street to access Nathan Phillips Square. See map for location.
Wheel-Trans:  The Hagerman Street entrance (north entrance) is the Wheel-Trans pick-up and drop-off location.

Want a recap? Watch this short video for an introduction to the design competition and the five design teams charged with the important task of creating innovative ideas that will transform the unique and important area around the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal
 

Image

www.waterfronttoronto.ca



TorontoOntarioCanada




news from our new blue edge

Notice of Filing of Addendum and Completion of Environmental Study Report

 

2014 Lower Don Lands Environmental Assessment Master Plan Addendum and Environmental Study Report


Waterfront Toronto, the City of Toronto and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) have completed the 2014 Lower Don Lands Environmental Assessment Master Plan Addendum and Environmental Study Report (2014 LDL EAMP Addendum and ESR) in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (June 2000, as amended in 2007 & 2011). The 2014 LDL EAMP Addendum and ESR  updates and amends the May 2010 Lower Don Lands Environmental Assessment Master Plan to align with the outcomes of the Port Lands Acceleration Initiative (PLAI) and the amended and finalized March 2014 Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project Environmental Assessment (2014 DMNP EA). The study area for the 2014 LDL EAMP Addendum and ESR extends from the Rail Berm in the north to the Ship Channel in the south, and from the Inner Harbour in the west to The Don Roadway in the east.



The 2014 LDL EAMP Addendum and ESR addresses water, wastewater, stormwater and transportation (including transit) infrastructure servicing requirements necessary to support the proposed land uses, including new and improved public spaces that are proposed as part of the revitalization of the Lower Don Lands area. It updates Phases 1 and 2 of the 2010 LDL EAMP to reflect the results of the PLAI and amended 2014 DMNP EA, and therefore completes the Schedule ‘B’ Class EA requirements for all of the water and wastewater works and most of the major stormwater works. The 2014 LDL EAMP Addendum and ESR also fulfills Phases 3 and 4 of the Class EA planning process for the following Schedule ‘C’ projects within the Lower Don Lands Study Area:
  • Cherry Street (including transit) to the Ship Channel;
  • Commissioners Street (including transit) based on the previous alignment for Villiers Street in the 2010 LDL EAMP Addendum and ESR
  • Villiers Street which will be maintained as a local street across the study area;
  • Basin Street from Cherry Street to the Don Roadway; and
  • Mechanical stormwater control facilities.

By this Notice, the 2014 LDL EAMP Addendum and ESR is being placed on the public record for a 30-calendar day review period, commencing September 4, 2014 and ending on October 3, 2014. The 2014 LDL EAMP Addendum and ESR is available for review at the following locations, and can also be found online at waterfrontoronto.ca

Waterfront Toronto
20 Bay Street, Suite 1310
Toronto, ON  M5J 2N8
Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

Toronto Public Library
St. Lawrence Branch
171 Front Street East
Toronto, ON  M5A 4H3
Mon-Sat: Hours vary

Office of the City Clerk
Toronto City Hall, 12th Floor, West
100 Queen Street West
Toronto, ON  M5H 2N2
Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

If you wish to comment on the report or request further information, please contact Waterfront Toronto in writing within the 30 day review period at the following address:

Waterfront Toronto, 20 Bay Street, Suite 1310, Toronto, ON  M5J 2N8
Attention: Brenda Webster, Project Manager
Email: info@waterfrontoronto.ca  Fax: 416-214-4591

If concerns regarding the 2014 LDL EAMP and ESR cannot be resolved through discussion with Waterfront Toronto during the 30 day review period, you may request a Part II Order from the Minister of Environment and Climate Change. Requests must be submitted directly to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, 77 Wellesley St West, 11th Floor, Toronto, Ontario, M7A 2T5 by October 3, 2014. A copy of the request must also be sent to Waterfront Toronto. If no request is received by October 3, 2014, Waterfront Toronto will proceed with the project as outlined in the 2014 LDL EAMP and ESR.  This notice issued on September 4, 2014.

All information will be maintained on file for use during the project, and may be included in project documentation. With the exception of personal information, all information will become part of the public record. If you have any accessibility requirements in order to participate in this project please contact the Project Manager noted above.

Public notice information.


Waterfront Toronto
Toronto Transit Comission
Toronto














 












news from our new blue edge

Project Update Notice

 

Lower Yonge Precinct


Over the past year, Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto have completed two studies which create the foundation for the Lower Yonge Precinct Plan: an Urban Design Report: Principles and Recommendations and a Transportation Master Plan Environmental Assessment (Phases 1 and 2). These studies – which were guided by comments from stakeholders and members of the public – set out a structure for the revitalization of the Lower Yonge precinct.

On August 12, Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto will provide an update on the Lower Yonge Precinct Plan to Toronto East York Community Council. Please take a few minutes to review Lower Yonge Update: Planning a New Waterfront Precinct which includes new artist’s renderings for the neighbourhood and provides links to the full Urban Design Report and the Transportation Master Plan.

If you wish to submit written comments about this project to Toronto East York Community Council, please forward them to the City Clerk, attention: Rosalind Dyers, Administrator, Toronto and East York Community Council, 100 Quessent Street West, 2 WT, Toronto, ON M5H 2N2, or by e-mail to teycc@toronto.ca
Waterfront Toronto

Toronto




 








news from our new blue edge

July 2014

 

Transparency and accountability on the waterfront


Honesty, openness, integrity and accountability are essential components of our approach to revitalizing Toronto's waterfront.

Since its inception, Waterfront Toronto has been committed to earning the trust and confidence of Torontonians and the broader public that we serve by being honest and open and by acting with integrity and accountability. We have done this in a variety of ways, including ensuring public consultation on every project we do, having open Board meetings, reporting proactively on our senior management and Board expenses, having  information disclosure policies that meet or exceed the City of Toronto’s own (according to a March 23, 2009 city staff report to Executive Committee), having been audited on no fewer than 18 occasions by the three levels of government and external auditors and having our staff members’ salaries disclosed through the provincial Sunshine List. In addition, our procurement policies fully comply with all relevant federal, provincial and municipal standards.

As Waterfront Toronto is funded by, and reports to, the federal, provincial and municipal governments, each level of government has also created a Waterfront Secretariat that provides fiscal and policy oversight over the corporation and ensures that the interests of each level of government are protected – including accountability, transparency and value for money.

We aspire to be as open and accountable as possible and continue to refine and improve our policies based on the standards and best practices of the governments that fund us. We are always looking for ways to improve.

Waterfront Toronto works hard to operate in the manner to which we aspire – and to make sure that the public knows about it. We were reminded of this recently at the July 2, 2014 meeting of the City’s Executive Committee, where a motion was passed to undertake a strategic review related to the next phase of waterfront revitalization. The review was triggered by Waterfront Toronto’s submission of its Strategic Business Plan for 2014 to 2023. That business plan maps out the major projects that remain to be funded for the balance of Waterfront Toronto’s 20-year mandate – specifically, the flood protection of the Lower Don Lands; the Port Lands and surrounding communities through the re-naturalization of the Don River; and the East Bayfront LRT line which would connect the emerging communities along the eastern waterfront to Union Station.

The Executive Committee motion was amended to include three requests of Waterfront Toronto, which are summarized below:
  1. To adopt a freedom of information policy similar to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Personal Privacy Act.
  2. To appoint an independent Open Meeting Investigator similar to the City’s; the Investigator should receive requests to investigate when anyone feels that Waterfront Toronto did not comply with our policy of open meetings (defined as meeting of the Board of Directors or Board Committees) and should make any reports of their investigations public.
  3. To adopt a policy on disclosure of wrongdoing and protection of staff similar to the Toronto Public Service by-law – this would commonly be referred to as whistleblower protection.

Although there was much discussion on these items, what was lost was that Waterfront Toronto already has these policies in place:
  • Even though Waterfront Toronto is not subject to Freedom of Information legislation at the federal, provincial or municipal level – mostly for technical reasons – we instituted a Freedom of Information policy in 2009. The policy was updated in 2012 and meets the requirements of all three – federal, provincial and municipal – Freedom of Information and Protection of Personal Privacy Acts. We did this because our mandate absolutely depends on acting in a transparent and inclusive manner with the public and the governments that fund us.
  • Last year, Waterfront Toronto appointed The Honourable Coulter A. Osborne, former Associate Chief Justice for Ontario, as investigator to investigate any complaints over our open meeting practices. If a complaint is ever received, his role is to follow the investigative and reporting process set out in the City of Toronto Act.
  • And finally, Waterfront Toronto has had a whistleblower protection policy in place since 2009.

We are making some changes to our website to make sure that anyone can quickly and easily find these policies, and also to ensure that other Waterfront Toronto accountability and transparency policies and measures are centralized on our website. In addition, we will soon be launching a new page on our website that will proactively provide detail in response to requests for information, so we can ensure that any debate over Waterfront Toronto’s activities can be based on facts.

Waterfront Toronto has earned the public’s trust over the decade of revitalization work we’ve undertaken. We will work to continually refine our transparency and accountability and we will communicate any changes we make.

 













 




Portland Slip Water’s Edge Promenade now open


Before and after the construction of the Water's Edge Promenade along the Portland Slip in Toronto's Central Waterfront.

A new stretch of water’s edge promenade is now open along the Portland Slip next to the Canada Malting Silos. Like the Water’s Edge Promenade between Canada’s Sugar Beach and Sherbourne Common, the new Portland Slip promenade is made of red and grey granite forming a maple leaf mosaic pattern.  A double row of maple trees offers shade and wind protection for those strolling along – or sitting by – the water’s edge.

Designed by West 8 + DTAH, as part of the overall plan for the Central Waterfront, the water’s edge promenade helps connect our waterfront parks and public spaces.  At the Portland Slip, the promenade opens up access to Ireland Park, an often overlooked space at the foot of Eireann Quay. Ireland Park honours the Irish immigrants who fled during the Famine of 1847 – and the 38,000 who arrived in Toronto.  The park, which originally opened in 2007, includes a "wall of memories" in Irish blue limestone, a landscape of stone and plantings that blend from an Irish to a Canadian landscape, and five bronze sculptures by renowned Irish sculptor Rowan Gillespie.

Our construction at the Portland Slip followed dockwall repairs which the City of Toronto completed in 2012. The City’s required dockwall infrastructure work advanced our timelines for building the promenade in this area. The new promenade stretches 130 metres along the west side of the Portland Slip from the lake to the existing sidewalk just east of the Harbourfront Community Centre.
 













 




Corktown Common opening celebrations a resounding hit!


Community members lounge on the grass, enjoying live music and breathtaking views of the park and city skyline.

Thursday, July 10, 2014 was a beautiful, sunny day with a gentle breeze – a perfect day for a celebration! Waterfront Toronto was joined by hundreds of people of all ages at two memorable events to officially open Corktown Common, our spectacular new park in the emerging West Don Lands.

Community members, media, stakeholders and an esteemed group of government representatives came out in the morning for the official ribbon cutting. In addition to official remarks, we also presented Tedd Konya with a commemorative artist’s rendering of the park as a thank you for submitting the winning name to Name That Park.

In the afternoon we hosted a community picnic with our development partners, Dundee Kilmer and Urban Capital, who generously provided the food and entertainment. About 500 people came out with family and friends for the festivities. The central lawn and playground areas were full with people lounging, socializing and having a bite to eat. Adults and kids alike enjoyed the complementary BBQ, cotton candy, snow cones and live music by Electric Blonde.

At 7.3 hectares (18 acres), with a vast range of amenities, Corktown Common has universal appeal. By taking an abandoned, post-industrial site and turning it into a must-see destination, Waterfront Toronto has created a valued community asset that will serve the new West Don Lands community and surrounding area for generations.

Check out our Facebook albums to see a recap of the official ribbon cutting and the community picnic.
 













 




Construction update: Queens Quay Revitalization






 

Over the last month crews have made significant progress along Queens Quay and the project is on schedule for completion in June 2015. Here’s a brief project update:
  • Canopy of Trees: The first set of silva cells – a tree planting technology designed to house an average of 30 cubic metres of nutrient soil per tree – are now being installed under the new promenade and Martin Goodman Trail. These reinforced cells provide structural support for pavement above while allowing tree roots to spread and thrive in noncompacted soil. Silva cells are currently being installed between Bay Street and York Street.
  • Granite: Granite sidewalks on the northside are approximately 55% complete with major stretches in place from York Street to the Rees Parkette. On the southside promenade, crews have completed about 40% of the granite installation including a major new section in front of HTO Park East.
  • New Road: Crews completed major work across the York and Rees intersections and both have been reopened to traffic. Granite curbs are in and the road’s concrete base is being poured between York Street and Rees Street. In the coming weeks, asphalt paving will occur. Traffic will shift to the new road as construction progresses to allow construction of the southside Martin Goodman Trail to proceed.
  • TTC Rebuild: All track and pole foundations have been installed east of Spadina Avenue and TTC crews have completed overhead wiring at the Spadina Loop. Work is underway on the reconstruction of the final section of track between Spadina Avenue and Yo Yo Ma Lane and the installation of remaining poles east of the Peter Slip bridge. TTC is planning to resume 510 Spadina streetcar service to the Spadina Loop effective August 31, 2014 and 509 Harbourfront streetcar service by October 12, 2014.
     
For more detailed construction updates, please sign up for the Queens Quay construction notice on the Queens Quay construction webpage, which is posted each Friday afternoon.
 



Video: A look under Queens Quay
Toronto’s main waterfront street is being completely transformed into an lively and active urban waterfront. But the makeover isn’t limited to above ground improvements.

In this video, we'll peel back the pavement to show what we're building underground and how that is coordinated with the landscape work we can see above ground.

Queens Quay webcams
Keep an eye on construction from your computer or mobile device using our Queens Quay Webcams.

Need more information?
Thank you for your patience during construction. If you have questions send an email to info@waterfrontoronto.ca or call 416-214-9990.

For urgent construction issues
Please contact Queens Quay Construction Liaison Officer, Robert Pasut at RPasut@easternconstruction.com or call 416-505-3073.




Construction update: Bayside






Major construction activity continues at the Bayside Toronto site where crews are working on infrastructure to support the new community. Last month, crews completed underground services along the north-south leg of Merchants’ Wharf Way (the main street in Bayside) and began installation of municipal sewer and water services on the east-west waterfront leg. Excavation for Bayside’s 12-metre diameter stormwater management structure was also completed allowing crews to begin concrete forming for the structural base of the shaft. Work is also now underway on landscaping work for the Water’s Edge Promenade east of Sherbourne Common.
 




New! Bayside Webcam

Keep an eye on the construction of this new 13-acre mixed-use neighbourhood from your computer or mobile device using our Bayside Webcam.






Construction update: Pan Am Athletes’ Village/Canary District


An aerial view of the construction progress on the Pan Am Athletes' Village/Canary District.

Roadwork/Infrastructure
The remaining Silva Cells on Front Street are being installed and tree planting continues.  Concrete base and the installation of unit pavers and light poles on local streets also continues to progress.

Progress on the reconstruction of Sumach Street continues. Work on the west side between King Street and Eastern Avenue is nearing completion with only a few miscellaneous items outstanding. Progress on the east side continues. Backfilling and the installation of all TTC poles are complete and TTC track installation is nearing completion. The installation of the median, sidewalks and other public realm improvements is scheduled to continue throughout the summer.

YMCA/George Brown College
At George Brown College’s student residence, the installation of doors, suite washroom millwork and plumbing fixtures is complete. At the YMCA, pool tile work continues. Painting in both buildings, the commissioning of mechanical and electrical equipment is ongoing and the building’s exterior aluminum facade is progressing.

Affordable Housing Buildings
At the Fred Victor and Wigwamen buildings perimeter landscaping continues and the installation of insulation and the green roof has commenced. The fire alarm and commissioning process are also underway at both buildings.

Canary District Condominiums
On the first market housing condominium - Canary District Condominiums - the mechanical and electrical installation, and framing and drywall continue to progress in the podium and north and south towers. The installation of the elevators is ongoing and the painting, bathroom vanity installation and tile work continue to progress.

On the second market housing building - Canary Park Condominiums - mechanical and electrical installations and the fire/smoke seal installation are in progress. Window, elevator and roofing installation are ongoing for both the north and south towers. Framing of suites and gypsum board installation on corridor walls is underway. Interior suite door installation, washroom tiling, bathroom vanity installation and prime-coat painting continues.

For more information on the award winning Canary District or to view the live construction feed visit their website at www.canarydistrict.com or their brand new presentation centre located at 398 Front Street (parking available off Trinity Street).
 





 

Construction update: River City


The progress on River City show from King Street ad Lower River.

Progress has been steady at River City, the first private sector development project in the rapidly emerging West Don Lands. The four-phase LEED Gold community by Urban Capital is located at the corner of King Street East and Lower River Street. The development will offer 1,100 loft-style condominiums, family-friendly townhouses, ground floor retail and extensive amenities for residents.

Construction of RC2 – the second phase of River City’s four-phase development – continues to progress. The building's structure and roof are complete and window installation continues to advance up the building. The installation of interior finishes has begun and will be ongoing over the next few months. The first occupancies of this phase are scheduled to start early next year.

Sales at RC3, the third phase of this award-winning development, have been strong, with almost 50% sold at Urban Capital’s preview opening. RC3 complements RC1 and 2 and continues Saucier + Perrotte’s stunning vision for River City, with striking asymmetrical lines that make exceptional use of the unique site.
 





 

In brief

Top 8 places to see on Toronto's waterfront this summer
Don’t have the time or money for a dream vacation spent away with family and friends this summer? Don’t panic - we have a great solution! You can experience all the excitement of travel exploring your own city with a Toronto waterfront staycation. Here are our top 8 places to visit on the waterfront.

Connecting cycling routes along the waterfront
Waterfront Toronto’s approach to building new communities balances all modes of transport, giving priority to pedestrians, cyclists and public transit vehicles since it is more sustainable and makes for healthier, more active and less car-dependent communities. See how one way we are doing this is by creating bike trail connections across the waterfront, which contributes to the larger city-wide cycling network.
 





Taste of Toronto food festival

Fort York, from July 24-27, will play host to the “world’s greatest restaurant festival” and for the first time bring this global 21 city festival to North America. Known as the ‘birthplace of urban Toronto’, Taste of Toronto will transform Fort York into a foodie wonderland for four days of summer eating, drinking and entertainment. This unique culinary festival brings together 14 of the city’s best restaurants with over 50 producers of the best food, beverages and premium brands providing a bountiful food market.
 


The
Operating much like a restaurant with lunch and dinner services, Taste of Toronto will be comprised of six half-day sessions. Get full session details and ticket information.




5th Annual T&T Waterfront Night Market returns

Offering an exciting outdoor culinary experience the 5th Annual T&T Waterfront Night Market from July 25-27, features a selection of Asian theme ‘street food’. This multicultural food festival unites different cultures together to participate in the cross-cultural social event of the year. From food to performances and entertainment, experience the night market that is the emblem of the bustling urban lifestyle across Asian cities worldwide.
 



Enjoy Toronto’s only night market.
Friday, July 25 from 6pm – Midnight; Saturday, July 26 from 4pm – Midnight; and Sunday, July 26 from 4pm – 10pm.




Caribbean festival at the waterfront

Enjoy a taste of the Caribbean at Island Soul, August 1–4 hosted by Harbourfront Centre. The cultural legacy of the Caribbean comes to Toronto's waterfront for four days of music, dance, food, film and more. Dance to the rhythms and indulge in the flavours of the islands all weekend! Some of the attractions include Oware games (a pit and pebbles style game) and performances by Edwin Yearwood & Krosfyah and Dance Caribe.

Save the date for another exciting food festival this summer, the legendary Hot & Spicy Food Festival, August 15–17 at Harbourfront Centre.
 



Image
Travel the world close to home this summer with this Caribbean festival along the water's edge.







Sail-in Cinema™ returns to the waterfront this August

The world’s first two-sided floating movie screen is coming back to Canada’s Sugar Beach for three nights, August 14-16. Save the date and don’t miss Toronto Port Authority’s annual Sail-in Cinema™ for both boaters and land-lovers alike to watch movies under the open skies.



Image
Land-lovers can watch the films from 25 Dockside Drive.











Header Image



you’re invited!
Please join Waterfront Toronto and its development partners, Dundee Kilmer and Urban Capital as we celebrate the official opening of Corktown Common with a community picnic. Enjoy a free BBQ, fun food and activities, live music and all the amenities the park has to offer. Food and entertainment generously provided by Dundee Kilmer and Urban Capital.

Date: Thursday, July 10, 2014
Time:  5:00pm to 8:00pm at the pavilion and central lawn.
Location:  Corktown Common is located at the foot of Bayview Avenue at Lower River Street.
Map:  Click here
Transit:  Please see the TTC’s diversion notice for route details. The 501 Queen streetcar is diverting between Parliament Street and Coxwell Avenue. 501 Queen shuttle buses will make stops at River Street - both eastbound and westbound. Walk south on River/Lower River Street, past Lawren Harris Square. Park entrance is on the east side of Bayview Avenue.
Parking:  There is very limited street parking in the area so we’re providing an accessible complimentary shuttle. Park in one of the local “P” lots, then head to the “P” lot on the south side of the Distillery District and jump on. Continuous two-way service to and from the party will be available from 4:45pm until 8:15pm.
Cycling:  We’re providing complimentary Bike Valet parking. So, ride your bike, sign in, get your numbered parking tag, and go have fun. When you’re ready to leave, just present your tag to reclaim your bike.

For information, contact Waterfront Toronto at 416-214-1344 ext. 276. or at info@waterfrontoronto.ca

We hope you'll also join us in the morning, from 10:00am to 11:00am, for the official ribbon cutting celebration with our government partners. See the official invite!

If you can’t make it out, we’ll be live tweeting all day! Use #CorktownCommonParty so you can join the conversation and track the fun all day long!



Header Image


you’re invited to our new blue edge
Please join Waterfront Toronto and our government partners as we celebrate another major milestone in the development of our waterfront — the official ribbon   cutting for Corktown Common.

Date: Thursday, July 10, 2014
Time:  10:00am to 11:00am at the pavilion, located adjacent to the central lawn.
Location:  Corktown Common is located at the foot of Bayview Avenue at Lower River Street.
Map: Click here
Transit:  Please see the TTC’s diversion notice for route details. The 501 Queen Street is diverting between Parliament Street and Coxwell Avenue. 501 Queen Street shuttle buses will make stops at River Street - both eastbound and westbound. Walk south on River/Lower River Street, past Lawren Harris Square. Park entrance is on the east side of Bayview Avenue.
Parking:  Very limited street parking is available nearby.

For information, contact Waterfront Toronto at 416-214-1344 ext. 276.

Stay tuned for more details about a community event, #CorktownCommonParty being held in the evening on July 10, 2014.




June 2014

 

Toronto named Intelligent Community of the Year


Waterfront Toronto's John Campbell, CEO and Kristina Verner, Director, Intelligent Communities with IBM's John Longbottom, Executive, Smarter Cities Strategy.

Last week, Toronto was named the Intelligent Community of the year from the New York-based Intelligent Community forum. The title is awarded to the community that best creates inclusive economic opportunity and improves competitiveness through the use of broadband and information technology to collaborate, innovate, attract investment, improve the delivery of government services and raise the quality of life for its citizens.

Toronto performed impressively against a set of diverse criteria and the efforts of its academic, creative and private sectors, as well as its City Council leadership, to ensure the continued success of the entire community. This has led to increased global competitiveness and sustained economic growth through the attraction of investment and talent.

The Intelligent Community Forum, which studies and promotes the best practices of the world's Intelligent Communities as they adapt to the demands and seize the opportunities presented by information and communications technology and create jobs. Although the award belongs to the entire city, Waterfront Toronto has played a leadership role both in building intelligent communities and in leading the campaign to win this award.
 













 




More affordable housing coming to the waterfront


An artist's rendering of an aerial view of the Bayside Toronto development at night.

Toronto City Council has approved a plan to develop 80 affordable rental homes within a market condominium building in the emerging Bayside development in East Bayfront. This innovative new affordable housing development will be built and operated through a partnership among the City of Toronto, Waterfront Toronto, Hines/Tridel and Artscape. The 80 affordable units will be owned by the City and operated by Artscape. Construction is expected to be completed by 2018-2019.

Building neighbourhoods for people of all income levels and life stages is a key part of Waterfront Toronto’s revitalization model. This new development will help fulfil our commitment that 20 per cent of residential units in new waterfront communities be affordable rental housing. In addition to this project in East Bayfront, several affordable housing projects are also underway in the West Don Lands.
 













 




Our new Waterfront Toronto blog


At the half-way point in our twenty-year mandate, we realized that we have stories to share. Last month, we launched our new blog to help do this.

Waterfront revitalization touches on so many important issues – from making great new communities, parks and public spaces, sustainable development, urban design, economic development, leading technology infrastructure – and because of this we realized we wanted to create a platform to share our stories.

Our new blog – playfully titled On the Waterfront is meant to be a place where you can learn more about what we’re doing and how it affects Toronto, Ontario and Canada. We have lots to say about what we’ve done, why we’ve done it, how we’ve done it and even what we’ve learned along the way. We also have stories to share about the many great partners we’ve worked with and how their ideas have inspired us.

We want this blog to be a place where you can get a better sense of what we care about; everything from new ideas, case studies and projects to designs, works of art and buildings. You’ll be hearing from various members of the Waterfront Toronto team who can bring their personal and professional experiences to our stories. And it won’t be just us posting. Along the way, we will be featuring posts from our partners and others whose ideas we think are worth sharing.

Don’t hesitate to let us know what you think, or share an idea with us; email us at info@waterfrontoronto.ca, or engage with us on Twitter (@WaterfrontTO) or Facebook.
 













 




In brief

Port Lands planning initiatives underway
Members of the public attended a public meeting on May 15 to review the draft vision, the draft guiding principles and a number of options for how the Villiers Island (Cousins Quay) precinct could be developed. View an album of photos from the public meeting…
Sherbourne Common retrofit
The water is flowing again in Sherbourne Common’s 240-metre long channel. With a minor retrofit to the concrete channel now complete, the park is ready for visitors just in time for the summer season. More about the retrofit...

Kick off summer with a splash
With over 100 splash pads now open across the city be sure to visit the ones along the water's edge. Read about some of the nicest ones, in our humble opinion…

Canada's Sugar Beach is a 2014 Great Place
Canada’s Sugar Beach has received a prestigious 2014 Great Places Award for excellence in environmental design. The award honours projects that “engage our attention and imagination.” Read more...





Construction update: Queens Quay Revitalization






Granite and streetcar work

With the majority of underground work now complete, crews are making tremendous progress on the streetcar corridor rebuild and the new granite promenade and sidewalks across Queens Quay.
  • TTC Rebuild: Over the last month, rail was installed across the major intersections on Queens Quay. The Lower Simcoe and Lower Spadina intersections have re-opened.  The York intersection will re-open before the Canada Day long weekend followed by the Rees intersection. Streetcar poles are beginning to be installed in preparation for TTC crews to begin commissioning the line.

  • Granite Promenade and Sidewalks: Over the last month, crews completed a large stretch of granite mosaic promenade in front of Ontario Square ahead of schedule. Crews are also making good progress on the promenade at HTO East. On the north side of the street, granite sidewalks are mostly complete from the York Street ramp to Rees Street. During the revitalization of Queens Quay more than 2.5 million pieces of granite are being installed by hand along our main waterfront street.
     
Work is also underway on the new roadway. To date, crews have completed the base course of asphalt in the Lower Simcoe intersection and have completed the excavation between York Street and Lower Simcoe Street. The new roadway will be completed by the late fall.

For an update on the project schedule, more detailed construction updates and to sign up for the Queens Quay construction notice which is posted each Friday afternoon please check the Queens Quay construction webpage.
 



UEEImage
Video: A look under Queens Quay
Toronto’s main waterfront street is being completely transformed into an lively and active urban waterfront. But the makeover isn’t limited to above ground improvements.

In this video, we'll peel back the pavement to show what we're building underground and how that is coordinated with the landscape work we can see above ground.

Queens Quay webcams
Keep an eye on construction from your computer or mobile device using our Queens Quay Webcams.

Need more information?
Thank you for your patience during construction. If you have questions send an email to info@waterfrontoronto.ca or call 416-214-9990.

For urgent construction issues
Please contact Queens Quay Construction Liaison Officer, Robert Pasut at RPasut@easternconstruction.com or call 416-505-3073.




Construction update: Bayside






Construction is progressing well on required infrastructure for the Bayside Toronto development in East Bayfront. Last month, crews focused their efforts on several key activities along the west leg of Merchants’ Wharf (the main street in Bayside). Highlights of work in this area include:
  • Completion of deep sanitary and storm sewer construction.
  • Significant progress on storm catch basins and water mains with remaining work expected to be complete by the end of June.
  • Toronto Hydro began the installation of its distribution network which will be followed by other telecommunication utilities.
  • Shoring for Bayside’s 12 metre diametre stormwater management shaft was completed and excavation for the shaft is now underway.

Excavation has also begun for the new sewers planned along the southern leg of Merchants' Wharf. At the water's edge on the west side of the site, the dockwall reinforcing work has been substantially completed and backfilled. This allows landscape work to start for the water's edge promenade which will be extended east from Sherbourne Common across the Bayside site. 




Bayside Street Names Approved

Three new waterfront street names have been approved by Toronto East York Community Council following our ‘Help Name a Waterfront Street’ contest earlier this spring. Read more about the new names.






Construction update: Pan Am Athletes’ Village/Canary District


A view from Corktown Common showing the construction progress on the Pan Am Athletes' Village/Canary District.

Roadwork/Infrastructure
The reconstruction of the intersection at King Street and Sumach Street is complete and was opened to both vehicle and pedestrian traffic at the end of May. The reconstruction work on the west side of Sumach Street between King Street and Eastern Avenue is nearing completion with only some miscellaneous items remaining. On the east side of Sumach Street work continues with TTC rails scheduled for installation at the end of June. Work on the median, sidewalks and other public realm improvements are scheduled to continue throughout the summer.

Cherry Street between Mill Street and Lake Shore Boulevard has reopened to vehicle and pedestrian traffic.  The remainder of Cherry Street is scheduled to open later this year. On Old Eastern Avenue, crews are completing final miscellaneous items. A portion of Old Eastern Avenue is scheduled to open later this summer.

Concrete base and the installation of unit pavers and light poles on local streets continues to progress. The remaining silva cells are being installed along Front Street and tree planting has begun.

YMCA/George Brown College
The installation of doors, suite washroom millwork and plumbing fixtures continues at the George Brown College student residence, and framing and drywall continues to progress.  At the YMCA, installation of the elevators is now complete and the commissioning of the mechanical and electrical equipment has commenced. Drywall and pool finishes, including tiling, are ongoing.

Affordable Housing Buildings
The elevators are complete and the Technical Standards & Safety Authority approved at both the Fred Victor and Wigwamen buildings. Interior finishes are also complete in both buildings The fire alarm and commissioning process and the installation of temporary drywall partitions for use during the games are in progress on the P1 level in both buildings. Perimeter landscaping is ongoing and the green roofs will be installed in the coming months.

Canary District Condominiums
At the first market housing condominium - Canary District Condominiums - the mechanical and electrical installation, and framing and drywall continue to progress in the north and south towers, while painting, vanity and tile installation continues. The installation of the elevators is ongoing.

At the second market housing building - Canary Park Condominiums – progress continues.  Corridor framing is complete. Mechanical and electrical installations are in progress and framing and drywall continues. The installation of gypsum board, windows, elevators and roofing is in progress for both the north and south towers, as well as the interior suite door installation and washroom tiling.

For more information on the award winning Canary District visit their brand new presentation centre located at 398 Front Street (parking available off Trinity Street). View the live construction feed.
 





 

Construction update: Toronto Community Housing


The seniors building on King Street in the foreground with the family buildings behind.

Toronto Community Housing’s three-building development located at 589 King Street East in the West Don Lands has reached a significant milestone. The three building, 243-unit development will provide affordable rental units for families and seniors.

The seniors building on King Street, an eight storey building that offers 128 affordable rental units for seniors is complete. Toronto Community Housing recently applied for an Occupancy Permit, which when received will allow seniors to move into their suites. 

Progress also continues at the family buildings and on exterior landscaping features. At the River Street family building suites are nearing completion and pre-delivery inspections continue. At the St. Lawrence Street building the installation of interior finishes continues to progress. Landscaping throughout the development continues to progress.
 





 

Redpath Waterfront Festival returns

The Redpath Waterfront Festival is taking over two kilometres of Toronto’s waterfront – from Spadina to Sherbourne – with action packed activities that promise something for everyone. This weekend, visitors can enjoy live music and entertainment, cuisines and cultural celebrations at various waterfront locations, including Canada’s Sugar Beach and Sherbourne Common.

The festival welcomes the Flyboard North American Championships, where visitors can watch pilots perform backflips, 180’s, Supermans and of course, dolphin dives into Lake Ontario at Harbour Square Park. Stop by Canada’s Sugar Beach and relax by the water at the Toronto Wine and Spirits Festival while the EMERGE Artists Showcase entertains the crowd, or celebrate WorldPride in the sand at the Sweetness Pride Beach Party.

At Sherbourne Common, visitors can check out the 2014 DockDogs World Qualifying Championships. Watch dogs of all sizes and breeds compete to break world records in jumping and swim retrieval. Families can bounce on over to the Kids Zone at HTO Park East for fun and interactive games for all ages. Check out all the Redpath Waterfront Festival events here.
 


The
Flyboard® demonstrations at last year's Redpath Waterfront Festival.

Singing Ambassadors are back!
The award-winning Singing Ambassadors will return next week to serenade Toronto’s waterfront this summer. Presented by The Waterfront BIA, these eight lively ambassadors offer assistance, directions and recommendations to visitors, as well as impromptu a cappella performances. Spot the ambassadors for fabulous free prizes!




Port Union Waterfront Festival

Community groups in southeast Scarborough welcome all members of the community to the Port Union Waterfront Festival on Saturday, June 21 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The festival will be held at the Port Union Village Common and includes a 5km and 10km walk/run along the waterfront trail, carnival rides, live music featuring local bands, free popcorn and candy floss, as well as a community BBQ. Get more information about the Port Union Waterfront Festival.
 



Residents enjoy the carnival games at last year's festival.




June is National Aboriginal History Month

Come celebrate National Aboriginal History Month on the waterfront this Saturday, June 21 at the Museum of Inuit Art, located inside the Queen’s Quay Terminal Building. Take a self-guided historical tour of highlights from the museum's art collection before joining curator, Alysa Procida at 3:00 p.m. for a public lecture on the historic development of modern Inuit art.

In addition, a film screening of the documentary Martha of the North will be shown at 4:00 p.m., as part of a series throughout the month of June highlighting important historical moments for Inuit. See more information on these events.
 



Image
The Museum of Inuit Art celebrates National Aboriginal History Month with a variety of activities.




Celebrate Canada Day at the Waterfront

The water’s edge is the place to be this Canada Day weekend, June 27-July 1 with Harbourfront Centre’s Canada Day Extravaganza, featuring live music, a history exhibit and a stunning fireworks display.

Don’t miss performances by the SoundClash Music Award finalists and help crown the winner by voting for your favourite musical group. Get a good spot at Canada Square, the best place to watch a spectacular 20-minute 2-barge fireworks display set to music on Toronto's central waterfront on June 30. Get the full event details and schedule here.



Image
Last year's fireworks display along the water's edge at Harbourfront Centre - Photo Credit Riley Wallace






news from our new blue edge

Public Meeting Notice

Port Lands: Cousins Quay Precinct Plan

Public Meeting
Waterfront Toronto, in collaboration with the City of Toronto and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, is developing a precinct plan for the Cousins Quay Precinct. We invite you to attend a public meeting to provide feedback on the development of this precinct plan. At this first public meeting we will present guiding principles and several different options for how the precinct could be developed. Your participation and ideas are important and will help shape the future of the Cousins Quay Precinct and the Port Lands.

Public Workshop Details
Date: Thursday, May 15, 2014
Time: Drop-in and View Displays – 6:00 to 6:30 p.m.
Presentation and Facilitated Discussion – 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Morse Street Junior Public School - 180 Carlaw Avenue (West side of Carlaw Avenue, just south of Queen Street East). See map.
TTC: Take the 502 Queen Street streetcar Easbound or Westbound towards Carlaw Avenue. Visit the TTC Trip Planner for full directions.
Parking: Parking is available nearby.
Accessibility: Fully accessible.

The precinct plan will establish design and development objectives, local street patterns, block structure, linkages between local parks and open spaces, and built form controls. The plan will also identify other mechanisms needed to ensure revitalization and high-quality development in the Cousins Quay Precinct. This planning exercise is one of four initiatives currently underway in Toronto’s Port Lands.

The Cousins Quay Precinct Plan will complement and be coordinated with the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project Environmental Assessment (“DMNP EA”), the Lower Don Lands Master Plan Environmental Assessment Study (“LDL EA”), and the Port Lands Planning Framework currently underway.

For more information:http://www.portlandsconsultation.ca


If you wish to receive further information on the Cousins Quay Precinct Plan or be added to our mailing list or if you require any special accessibility requirements, please contact:

Amanda Santo, Development Manager
Waterfront Toronto
20 Bay Street, Suite 1310
Toronto, ON M5J 2N8
Tel: 416-214-1344 ex. 292
asanto@waterfrontoronto.ca or info@waterfrontoronto.ca

news from our new blue edge

Help pick our new waterfront street name

 
We’re one step closer to choosing a new waterfront street name – but we still need your help. From now through May 1, vote for your favourite street name from our list of seven shortlisted names.

The shortlisted names – which were selected from the almost seven hundred suggestions we received – are:
  • Aquaview Crescent
  • Azure Drive
  • Edgewater Drive
  • Kanadario Way (from the Iroquois word meaning “sparkling” or “beautiful” water)
  • Merchants’ Wharf (for the wharf which was once located in this area)
  • Water Street
  • Wendat Way (refrences the Wendat people, also called Huron)

When the voting period ends, we’ll tally up all your input and announce the winning name on May 5, 2014. The winning name will then be submitted to the City of Toronto for official approval.
 
More About the Waterfront Street
The street we’re naming is “Main Street” for the new Bayside Toronto development. It connects to Queens Quay Boulevard and runs along the water’s edge. It provides access to homes, shops, restaurants, offices – and the lake.
More About the Neighbourhood
Bayside Toronto is a 10-acre site on the east side of East Bayfront. It’s a new kind of neighbourhood where no detail has been overlooked. A place with stunning architecture, unique parks and waterside promenades. A neighbourhood where bustling shops and restaurants dot tree-lined streets. An intelligent community where everyone is connected to Canada’s first open access ultra-high speed broadband network. Hines is Bayside Toronto’s master developer and Tridel is the residential developer. The first residential building at Bayside Toronto is called Aqualina – and it’s located on the west side of the main waterfront drive.
More About the Contest
Help Name a Waterfront Street was launched on March 12 by Waterfront Toronto. Over a two-week period, we asked the public to submit street name suggestions via Facebook, Twitter and from our online poll. Submissions had to follow the City of Toronto’s Honourific and Street Naming Policy.
The almost 700 submissions were reviewed by a Selection Committee which included Councillor Pamela McConnell, Waterfront Toronto, Hines and Tridel as well as two neighbourhood representatives and a member of the Waterfront BIA. The winning name must be formally approved by the City of Toronto.













 




 








news from our new blue edge

April 2014

 

City Council decision on Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport


An aerial view of the waterfront and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

The proposed expansion of the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will now move into detailed negotiations between the City of Toronto and the Toronto Port Authority.

Toronto City Council voted unanimously to proceed with an approach recommended in a City Staff report that would see the Toronto Port Authority, agree to the approach, carry out detailed design work and an Environmental Assessment on the proposed runway extension, while committing to meet a series of conditions. These conditions include completing an airport master plan, addressing existing traffic congestion problems in the area and confirming that extending the runway would not increase the size of the marine exclusion zone around the ends of the runway. During the negotiations, there would be a cap on the number of passengers allowed to use the airport.

City Council also passed accompanying motions; including making all future infrastructure costs associated with expansion the responsibility of the Toronto Port Authority and ensuring that Waterfront Toronto are part of the City and Toronto Port Authority public consultations.

Waterfront Toronto has expressed concerns about the proposed expansion. The Board of Directors passing a resolution recommending airport expansion not proceed without further information and a better understanding of how the expansion would affect waterfront revitalization. This position was underlined in a recent op-ed in the Toronto Star by Board Chair Mark Wilson and President and CEO John Campbell.

Regarding Council's decision John Campbell said “We’re pleased to see that City Council adopted the staff report. We need to have the right information to make the best decision possible on this important question, so we need to proceed with due care. Waterfront Toronto looks forward to actively participating in this process.”

 













 




Canadian artists to create public art for intersection of Sumach and Eastern


Rendering of Sumach Silhouette by Scott Eunson and Marianne Lovink

Canadian artists Scott Eunson and Marianne Lovink have been commissioned to create a new work of public art for the intersection of Sumach Street and Eastern Avenue in Toronto’s West Don Lands neighbourhood.

Eunson and Lovink’s artwork, entitled Sumach Silhouette, will be composed of two complimentary panels of steel installed along the retaining wall at the edge of the Inglenook Community School property. Intricate laser-cut silhouettes will tell the story of the site beginning 12,000 years ago after the first glacial retreat. Archival information, artifacts and related stories are abstracted into patterns that are woven together to form a tapestry that creates a unique style of visual storytelling with variations of scale, density and context.

A central focus of the work commemorates the story of Lucie and Thornton Blackburn, African-American slaves who escaped to Toronto using the Underground Railroad in the mid-1800s and built a house near the current site of the school. The Blackburns went on to become prominent and prosperous members of Toronto’s business community and the operators of Upper Canada’s first taxi cab company.

Waterfront Toronto is leading the largest community wide public art strategy in Canada. The strategy emphasizes the importance of early planning for public art, ensuring it is integrated at the time of design for the public realm - streets, overpasses, parks and other public spaces, rather than added as an afterthought. Learn more about Waterfront Toronto’s public art strategy and master plan.

 













 




Waterfront Toronto at the Empire Club

John Campbell, Waterfront Toronto President and CEO, was the keynote speaker at a luncheon event held at the Empire Club on April 3. There were approximately 140 people in attendance to hear John give a progress report on waterfront revitalization and speak about how the renewal of Toronto’s waterfront is good for the economy.

During the presentation, John noted that one of Waterfront Toronto’s primary objectives is to leverage revitalization work to deliver key economic and social benefits. These benefits enable Toronto to compete aggressively with other top tier global cities for investment, jobs and people. He then provided an update on the numerous waterfront projects underway, including Queens Quay revitalization, Pan Am Athletes’ Village and Canada’s first open access ultra-broadband community network. These projects are contributing to Toronto’s economic health and competitiveness.

 



Image
Read Waterfront Toronto’s Economic Impact Analysis report to learn how waterfront revitalization is good for the economy.

The Empire Club, which was established in 1903, is recognized as one of Canada’s oldest and largest, more important speaker’s forum.




In brief

Name a waterfront street
We asked for street name ideas and you delivered. Over a two week period, we received almost 700 suggestions for the new waterfront street in Bayside via Facebook, Twitter and from our online poll. Our Selection Committee is reviewing all of the names against the City’s street naming guidelines. Starting April 22, vote for your favourite waterfront street name from the shortlist on www.waterfrontoronto.ca
 
Recap of Ontario Place Park & Trail public meeting
On March 19, the public had another opportunity to view and comment on the proposed design for the new park and waterfront trail at Ontario Place. The design continues to reinforce the inspiration provided by Ontario’s iconic natural landscapes and powerfully references the concept of “where land meets water”. LANDinc and West 8 refined the conceptual design in response to the extensive input and feedback received from the public, stakeholders and Waterfront Toronto’s Design Review Panel. Stay tuned for the final designs to be unveiled later this year. View the updated designs.

 





Construction update: Queens Quay Revitalization

TTC Streetcar Corridor Construction
Construction is in full swing on the rebuild of the Queens Quay TTC streetcar corridor. The first section of track – from just west of Lower Simcoe to the east leg of Robertson Crescent – is well underway. To prepare for the rebuild, crews removed the asphalt road surface in late March. Given the frigid temperatures, ground heaters were used to warm the area to allow for excavation. After the first lift of concrete was poured for the track bed, TTC crews delivered 60 metre long rails to the site for installation.


Concrete being poured for the TTC corridor.

Given the length of the streetcar rails – anywhere from 60 metres to 100 metres in length (200 - 330 feet) – it is common practice for TTC crews to move the rails overnight.  Crews are accompanied by Paid Duty Police Officers who will help guide the crews through intersections and protect the public. The rail storage pile, located east of Yonge Street, will be diminished and cleared as the work between Bay Street and Yo Yo Ma Lane progresses.

Work is also getting underway on the next section of track – from York Street to Lower Simcoe. Once major construction is complete, TTC crews will begin the overhead wiring required to restore service on August 31, 2014.
 



Video Recap: Jane's Walk - Building the New Queens QuayA closer look at construction
Take a look at some recent construction photos to learn more about the extensive work underway on Queens Quay.

Queens Quay webcams
Keep an eye on construction from your computer or mobile device using our Queens Quay Webcams.

Need more information?
Thank you for your patience during construction. If you have questions send an email to info@waterfrontoronto.ca or call 416-214-9990.

For urgent construction issues
Please contact Queens Quay Construction Liaison Officer, Robert Pasut at RPasut@easternconstruction.com or call 416-505-3073.




Learn more about Queens Quay construction and sign up for weekly notices.
 



Construction update: Bayside Toronto

Construction is progressing well on required infrastructure for the Bayside Toronto development in East Bayfront. Last month, crews completed the construction of an oil and grit separator – a key section of the area’s stormwater management system. Crews are now preparing to drill caissons for the stormwater management shaft. Caissons are deep holes which are filled with structural concrete pillars, to support the area prior to excavation. Once the caissons are complete, excavation for the 12 metre diameter storm shaft will begin.

Work is also well underway on new municipal services for the neighbourhood including the installation of storm and sanitary lines along the western edge of the development. At the water’s edge, crews expect to complete dockwall reinforcement work this spring. Once complete, landscape work will begin for the eastern extension of the water’s edge promenade which is currently open from Canada’s Sugar Beach to Sherbourne Common.



A sanitary manhole and oil grit separator.
 





 



Construction update: West Don Lands

River City
River City, the four-phase, LEED Gold community by Urban Capital, continues to progress at King Street East and Lower River Street. Once complete it will be home to more than 1,100 loft-style condominiums and family-friendly town homes.

Construction of Phase 2 is well underway. The forming (concrete work) of the building is nearing completion and the installation of exterior finishes are also progressing. Window installation and interior finishing work has begun and the exterior metal panel installation will start in mid-April. Landscape work is scheduled to restart in mid-April. River City Phase 1 is now fully occupied. The last residents of this phase moved in earlier this spring.


River City rooftop overlooking Corktown Common.

Toronto Community Housing
Toronto Community Housing’s three-building development located at 589 King Street East in the West Don Lands continues to take shape with residents scheduled to move in this Summer. The 243-unit development will provide affordable rental units for families and seniors.

Landscape work has resumed and progress continues at all buildings.  At the seniors building on King Street, pre-delivery inspections have been completed in most suites. Building elevators have been installed and are operational.  Completion of building finishes in the common areas and the ramp to the underground parking are nearing completion.


The construction progress at Toronto Community Housing.

Pre-delivery inspections are also underway at the family buildings, which are located between Lower River and St. Lawrence Street.  Elevators are installed and operational and window installation and masonry work is complete. Drywall partitions are almost complete and mechanical and electrical work continues to progress. Interior work continues. Flooring, finishes, kitchen and bathroom fixtures and appliances continue to be installed in preparation for occupancy. Landscape work has also resumed.

Pan/Parapan Am Athletes' Village/Canary District
Roadwork/Infrastructure
Concrete base and the installation of unit pavers on local streets continue to progress. The installation of light poles has begun.

Reconstruction of the west side of Sumach Street between King Street and Eastern Avenue is nearing completion with only a few miscellaneous items remaining. On Sumach Street construction of the median is underway and excavation of the east continues.

On Cherry Street crews have completed the installation of the granite curbs, brick pavers and trees on the west side of the street.  Work on the east side will recommence as weather conditions improve.

YMCA/George Brown College
At George Brown College’s student residence the installation of doors, suite washroom millwork and plumbing fixtures have commenced, and framing, drywall continue and mechanical and electrical installations continue to progress. At the YMCA the installation of drywall and pool finishes are ongoing. Elevator installation will continue for several months.

Affordable Housing Buildings
At both the Fred Victor and Wigwamen buildings crews continuing to work on the installation of interior finishes. Framing and drywall work, painting, the installation of interior doors, tile work and the installation of plumbing and electrical fixtures are ongoing. Elevator installation is complete and approved, and perimeter landscaping has commenced at both buildings.

Canary District Condominiums
On the first market housing condominium, Canary District Condominiums, pre-cast installation is complete and the window installation is nearing completion. Mechanical and electrical installation and framing and drywall continue to progress in both the north and south towers. The installation of the elevators continues and painting has begun in the north tower.

On the second market housing building, Canary Park Condominiums, mechanical and electrical installations are in progress and the framing and drywall continue. The window installation, elevator installation and roofing are in progress for both the north and south towers. The final tower crane was removed in March.

For more information on the award winning Canary District or to view the live construction feed visit their website at www.canarydistrict.com or their sales centre located at 9 Mill Street.


Looking over the Pan/Parapan Am Athletes' Village/Canary District

King /Sumach intersection reconstruction update
Dundee Kilmer/EllisDon Ledcor continues to work on the reconstruction of the King and Sumach Street intersection. This work is being carried out in two phases from late March 2014 to approximately end of May 2014. Phase 1 is complete and Phase 2 has begun.

Notices will continue to be distributed through multiple channels. In addition to being included in Waterfront Toronto's monthly newsletter and posted on Waterfront Toronto’s website, they will also be distributed and posted online by Corktown Residents and Business Association. 

Phase 2 of the project includes the removal of the existing concrete sidewalk, asphalt pavement, and the existing TTC tracks and concrete bases. The removals are to prepare for the installation of a new concrete road base, new TTC/Street lighting poles and bases, new TTC drain system, new TTC Track system and new traffic lights. Sidewalk repairs, asphalt paving, the installation of new crosswalks and line painting will also be completed as part of this work.

Traffic Impact
A partial closure of the intersection is required to complete the reconstruction. Westbound traffic will be maintained on the north side of King Street for the duration of construction. Access to all businesses adjacent to the intersection will be maintained.

Eastbound traffic on King Street will be rerouted and access to Sumach Street will be impacted during this phase. Sumach Street northbound from Eastern Avenue will be open to local traffic only. Sumach Street South of King Street will be closed to all traffic during this phase.

Work will generally take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday, and from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. TTC track reconstruction will involve periods of late evening, overnight and extended weekend hours. TTC track reconstruction work is considered “necessary municipal work” under the Toronto Municipal Code by-law, and as such, night work is permitted on this project. Rail installation is generally conducted in periodic phases based on the progress of pouring the concrete trackbed. Dates will be provided in future notices when they become available.

After-hours work by the TTC is required to align construction and to complete the project as quickly as possible. We know construction is disruptive and we have worked to limit night work as much as possible. Unfortunately, for this phase of work it is unavoidable. We appreciate your patience as we complete this phase of work.

Please direct inquiries related to the reconstruction of King Street East/Sumach Street reconstruction to: info@dundeekilmer.com.

c




 

Spring Fling Festival arrives at the waterfront

There are lots of family-friendly activities happening along the central waterfront during Harbourfront Centre's inaugural Spring Fling Festival. Sponsored by The Waterfront BIA this new Spring festival is taking place over the April long weekend, from April 18 to 20.

Harbourfront Centre is hosting three days of music, dance and hands-on activities including a scavenger hunt, guided walking tour, storytelling and more. Don’t miss the Ultimutts Dog Show at PawsWay, family films at Queen's Quay Terminal, and Signs of Spring Harbour Tours from Mariposa Cruises. Local restaurants and hotels are also participating. Get all the details including schedule information.

 



Image
Morro and Jasp GO GREEN is one of many performances taking place during the Spring Fling Festival.




Clean Toronto together

The City of Toronto is once again hosting their annual spring clean-up in celebration of Earth Week, April 22-27. The Corporate and School Clean-up Day takes place on April 25 and Community Clean-up Days take place on April 26 and April 27.

Learn more about other Clean Toronto initiatives happening across the City that you can get involved in.



Image
Volunteer to help keep Toronto clean.












March 2014

 

Help name a waterfront street


Master plan for the Bayside Toronto development.

Ready to put your stamp on the waterfront? We’re looking for a name for a major new street next to the lake in East Bayfront. And since it’s your waterfront, we want your help.

The street we’re naming is “Main Street” for the new Bayside Toronto neighbourhood. It connects to Queens Quay Boulevard and runs along the water’s edge. Imagine it in the future with people strolling along sidewalks and in and out of shops and restaurants after a day by the lake.

You have until March 27 to submit your street name ideas – here’s how:
  • Tweet your name using the hashtag #waterfrontstreet.
  • Go to Waterfront Toronto’s Facebook page.
  • Submit your name online.

Once the submissions phase is over, our selection committee will review the names and create a shortlist for voting. Check back in April to vote for your favourite waterfront street name!

Learn more about the street, the neighbourhood and for street naming guidelines.
 













 




Global smart cities experts convene on Toronto’s waterfront


A panel discussion as part of the New Blue Edge speaker series, featuring Ryerson University’s Sheldon Levy, Waterfront Toronto’s John Campbell, Intelligent Community Forum’s Robert Bell and moderated by CBC Radio’s Nora Young.

On March 7, Waterfront Toronto invited global smart city experts to Corus Quay on the waterfront to share the latest perspectives on new trends in technology, innovation and collaboration.

John Campbell, President and CEO of Waterfront Toronto, was joined by the Honourable Glenn Murray, Minister of Transportation and Minister of Infrastructure; Sheldon Levy, President of Ryerson University; Robert Bell, co-founder of the Intelligent Community Forum (New York, USA) and Rashik Parmar, President of IBM Academy of Technology (London, UK). Speakers tackled subjects from the policies and infrastructure required to support innovation, to the leadership required from the public and private sector to put them in place.

This was the first event in a new on-going series that will focus on advanced technology and new tools that drive innovation and economic competitiveness for Toronto in the global marketplace. Read the full recap of the event.

 













 




Port Lands community workshop recap


A rendering of the Don River Mouth - view west towards downtown Toronto.

Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto continue to work together to develop a comprehensive long-term plan to guide the revitalization of the Port Lands. Public participation continues to be an important component of the process and will help shape the future of the area.

A workshop was held on March 5 at the Ralph Thornton Centre as a further opportunity for the public and interested stakeholders to ask questions and provide feedback on the different options for land use, transportation and municipal services for the Port Lands that were presented at a community consultation meeting held on February 13. Approximately 80 people participated in the workshop, providing the team with additional ideas, feedback and input.

You can still participate. Your ideas, comments and feedback about the initiatives will be accepted until March 19, 2014. Click here for meeting materials, the discussion questions and additional information about the Port Lands and the various studies underway.
 













 




Update on the Gardiner Expressway East Environmental Assessment

Along with the City of Toronto, Waterfront Toronto has been participating in the Gardiner Expressway East Environmental Assessment (EA). In the last month, the EA project team has released the results of the technical analysis of the four options being considered for the future of the eastern part of the expressway: Replace, Improve, Maintain and Remove. The analysis showed that the Remove option – tearing down the Gardiner from Jarvis St. to Logan Ave. and replacing it with an expanded and improved Lake Shore Boulevard – best meets the goals of the EA.

With these results made public through a press conference and a public meeting, Waterfront Toronto’s Board of Directors passed a resolution that supports the Remove option, as it “best supports and enhances the revitalization of the Toronto waterfront,” and also directed Waterfront Toronto staff to “contribute to a fact-based public debate on the issue.”

In response, Waterfront Toronto staff has aimed to explain and clarify the findings of the EA through a series of feature posts on our website and an infographic that deals with issues such as the nature of travel delays, cost, and how traffic and drivers respond when road capacity is reduced. Waterfront Toronto will continue to create and share content aimed at informing and engaging those who are interested in the future of the Gardiner East.

On March 4, members of the City’s Public Works and Infrastructure Committee voted to send the issue back to City Staff and Waterfront Toronto to do more work on addressing the traffic delays associated with the Remove option and to examine an additional option that would remove part of the Gardiner East while keeping the expressway function between the Gardiner East and Don Valley Parkway. The City and Waterfront Toronto have until February of 2015 to complete this additional work.
 



Image
Infographic on “How Toronto gets to work in 2031".





In brief

Photo album: striking a balance of uses on Toronto’s waterfront
As our city continues to engage in important discussion about generational issues – in particular the proposed expansion of the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport – many have asked about the effect of such expansion on our transforming waterfront. In the spirit of creating an informed discussion, this photo album is designed to show you the vision we are realizing for the water’s edge. View the photo album.
Waterfront Toronto recognized for sustainable community development
Corktown Common, Waterfront Toronto’s signature new park in the emerging West Don Lands, has been awarded the 2014 FCM Sustainable Communities Award in the neighbourhood development category. The prestigious leadership award recognizes Corktown Common for its innovation and contribution to sustainable community development. Learn more about the park being chosen for this award.

Waterfront Toronto project receives national landscape architecture award
The Water’s Edge Promenade in East Bayfront has been named as one of Canada’s best landscape architecture projects, receiving a National Merit Award from the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA). The CSLA Awards of Excellence recognize the best in Canadian landscape architecture. According to the CSLA, this year’s award-winning projects are “a reminder that great design helps build great communities.” Learn more about Waterfront Toronto’s award winning project.

 





Construction update: Queens Quay Revitalization

Schedule update
The Revitalization of Queens Quay is still on track for completion in July 2015 despite some delays to underground municipal work resulting from complex site conditions and frigid weather. We have posted a high-level Queens Quay construction schedule on our website that outlines progress to date and expected completion dates for the major remaining tasks. These tasks include: the completion of underground services; the TTC corridor and Spadina Loop rebuild; the new road construction; northside granite sidewalks and the southside promenade and Martin Goodman Trail. We will update the schedule each month.


Installing granite under a tent near the Rees Street parking lot.

Construction highlights
In March, crews will complete the installation of the new sanitary sewer line for Queens Quay. The new sanitary line which stretches from Bay Street to Rees Street replaces aging sanitary sewer infrastructure in the area. Crews are also working on a new storm sewer line between the Rees WaveDeck and HTO Park.

Work is also now underway on the rebuild of the TTC corridor on Queens Quay. Crews are preparing for the first stretch of the rebuild which will occur between Lower Simcoe Street and the Rees Parkette. Granite promenade and sidewalk work is also continuing under tents with ground heaters.

On the north side of Queens Quay, crews have completed the new granite layby in front of 218 Queens Quay and are installing new granite sidewalks in that area. On the south side, the granite promenade is nearly complete in front of the Queens Quay Terminal building and granite work in front of PawsWay and along the Simcoe WaveDeck is expected to be complete by mid April.
 



Video Recap: Jane's Walk - Building the New Queens QuayA closer look at construction
Take a look at some recent construction photos to learn more about the extensive work underway on Queens Quay.

Queens Quay webcams
Keep an eye on construction from your computer or mobile device using our Queens Quay Webcams.

Need more information?
Thank you for your patience during construction. If you have questions send an email to info@waterfrontoronto.ca or call 416-214-9990.

For urgent construction issues
Please contact Queens Quay Construction Liaison Officer, Robert Pasut at RPasut@easternconstruction.com or call 416-505-3073.




Learn more about Queens Quay construction and sign up for weekly notices.
 



Construction update: Bayside Toronto

Work continues on key infrastructure to support the new Bayside Toronto development in East Bayfront. The reinforcement of 185 metres of dockwall at the southern edge of the 5.3 hectare (13 acre) development is nearing completion. Crews expect to begin landscaping work for the water’s edge promenade in this area when dockwall reinforcement work is complete in early April. Crews have also been working on the installation of an oil and grit separator for the area’s stormwater management system. The oil and grit separator, which is approximately three metres in diameter, is designed to remove sediment, screen debris and separate oil from stormwater runoff.


Installing an oil and grit separator at the Bayside Toronto development.

Soil recycling at Bayside
Given the decades of infilling and industrial activity next to the lake, most of the soil excavated on the waterfront must be restored before new parks and communities can be built. At the Bayside Toronto site, 77% of the more than 16,000 tonnes of soil excavated to date have been sent to the Green Soils soil recycling facility. Soil recycling is a process that allows soils to be treated on-site so that it can be reused instead of sent to a landfill. This also means less noise, congestion, and fuel consumption as there are fewer trucks on the road.

 





 



Construction update: Pan/Parapan Am Athletes’ Village

As part of the Pan/Parapan Am Athletes’ Village/Canary District project, Dundee Kilmer is reconstructing the intersection at King Street East and Sumach Street. The reconstruction will occur in two phases, beginning immediately.

Phase 1: Phase 1 work includes the installation of manholes, catchbasins and below-grade pipes required to upgrade the underground stormwater infrastructure. Work has begun and will be ongoing throughout the month of March.
Traffic impact: The intersection will remain open during this work. Traffic control measures will be implemented to manage the work zones. East and west traffic will be maintained on King Street, as well as north and south traffic on Sumach Street.

Phase 2: The reconstruction of the intersection will take place in phase 2. Phase 2 work includes all removal work required for the reconstruction of the intersection, including the removal of the existing concrete sidewalk, asphalt pavement, and the existing TTC tracks and concrete bases. This work is to prepare for the installation of a new concrete road base, new TTC/street lighting poles and bases, new TTC drain system, new TTC track system and new traffic lights at the intersection. Sidewalk repairs, asphalt paving, the installation of new crosswalks and line painting will also be completed in this phase. This phase will begin in the late March and take approximately six to eight weeks to complete.
Traffic impact: A partial closure of the intersection is required to complete this phase of work. Westbound traffic will be maintained on the north side of King Street throughout the duration of construction. Access to all businesses adjacent to the intersection will be maintained. Eastbound traffic on King Street will be rerouted during this phase of construction. Access to Sumach Street will also be impacted during this phase. Sumach Street northbound from Eastern Avenue will be open to local traffic only and Sumach Street South of King Street will be closed to all traffic during this phase.

DundeeKilmer continues to work with residents and businesses in the area to minimize disruptions during construction, including meeting with affected parties to advise of impacts in advance of scheduled work. A notice, including a diagram of the intersection describing the Phase 2 schedule in more detail, will be distributed via mail drop to residents and businesses in the area and posted on the Corktown Residents and Business Association website.

DundeeKilmer is also the developer of the award-winning Canary District. To view the live construction feed, visit their website at www.canarydistrict.com or their sales centre located at 9 Mill Street.
 





 

Join us on March 19 to see the refined design for the Urban Park and Waterfront Trail at Ontario Place

 

You're invited to the third public meeting where you’ll see how your ideas and input have helped shape the refined design for the new park and trail at Ontario Place. This is your final opportunity to provide input to the project team on the design before the final design is unveiled this summer.

Closed captioning and American Sign Language interpreters will support the meeting. If you have other accessibility requirements, please call 416-212-2161 or email ontarioplacerevitalization@ontario.ca.

Click here for project information and previous meeting materials.



Image
Artist rendering of the view of the east from The Romantic Garden.

Can’t attend in person? Join the live webcast or the conversation on Twitter! Use hashtag #OntarioPlace or follow live at @ExploreON.





Spring into March at Harbourfront Centre

 

Passionate about performance? Discover poetry in motion at Fujiwara Dance Inventions’ EUNOIA March 19-22 as part of World Stage. Based on Christian Bök’s poem of the same name, this world premiere transforms poetic structure into dance and movement.

If it’s more dance you desire, check out NextSteps. Every weekend in March, you can catch a groundbreaking performance from local and international dance companies. Enjoy everything from break-dancing to traditional Indian dance and simple, powerful choreography.



Image
Watch a video of World Stage's Artistic Director, Tina Rasmusseun on EUNOIA's groundbreaking performance.

For more details visit www.harbourfrontcentre.com






news from our new blue edge

Reminder: Public Workshop

Port Lands Planning Framework & Transportation and Servicing Master Plan

Public Workshop
If you didn't sign up for this workshop at the community consultation meeting held on February 13, 2014, at the Fire Academy, you still have an opportunity to participate. We invite you to attend this workshop where you can further review and comment on the different options for land use, transportation and municipal services for the Port Lands that were presented at the February 13 meeting. This workshop is a further opportunity to understand the material, ask questions and provide feedback.

Public Workshop Details
Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
Location: Ralph Thornton Centre, 765 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON (northwest corner of Queen Street East and Saulter Street). See map.
TTC: Take the 501 Queen streetcar Eastbound or Westbound. Visit the TTC Trip Plannerfor full directions.
Parking: Paid parking is available nearby.
Accessibility: Fully accessible.

Please RSVP to info@waterfrontoronto.ca or portlands@toronto.ca by March 3, 2014, if you are planning to attend.

The Port Lands Planning Framework will include direction for the transformation of the Port Lands into a number of new districts with a variety of uses including residential, commercial and parkland. This plan will build on the direction from the Port Lands Acceleration Initiative that was adopted by City Council in 2012.

The Transportation and Servicing Master Plan – Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) is being developed to establish the street network (including transit), and the water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure needed to support revitalization.

More information about the studies is available at:http://www.portlandsconsultation.ca.


The materials that were presented and provided at the community consultation meeting held on February 13, 2014, are available online:
• Presentation
• Port Lands Planning Framework – Display Boards
• Transportation & Servicing Master Plan – Display Boards
• Discussion Guide
• Discussion Questions

If you wish to receive further information on the studies or be added to a mailing list, please contact:

Amanda Santo, Development Manager
Waterfront Toronto
1310-20 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M5J 2N8
Tel: 416-214-1344 ext. 292
asanto@waterfrontoronto.ca

Cassidy Ritz, Senior Planner                                    
Community Planning
100 Queen Street West, 18th Floor, East Tower
Toronto, ON M5H 2N2                                
Tel:  416-397-4487   Fax:  416-392-1330 
portlands@toronto.ca

During the planning process for the above studies, the City of Toronto and Waterfront Toronto will be collecting comments and information from the public under the authority of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, s. 136© and the Planning Act, 1990. Personal information collected will be maintained in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Privacy Protection Act and may be used to provide updates on this file. Questions about the collection of this information can be directed to the City Planning Division, City of Toronto. 



news from our new blue edge

Reminder: Public Meeting Notice

Port Lands Planning Framework & Transportation and Servicing Master Plan

We invite you to attend this public meeting where different options for land use, transportation and municipal services for the Port Lands will be presented.  The purpose of this meeting is to discuss these options and get your feedback.  Your participation and ideas are important and will help shape the future of the Port Lands.

Public Meeting Details
Date: Thursday, February 13, 2014
Time: Drop-in from 6:30-7 p.m./Presentation and Facilitated Discussion from 7 to 9 p.m.
Location: EMS Training Centre (Toronto Fire Academy) - 895 Eastern Avenue, Toronto, ON (southwest corner of Eastern Avenue and Knox Avenue). See map.
TTC: Take the 501 Queen street car towards Woodbine Avenue and exit near Greenwood Avenue.
Parking: Parking is available on site.
Accessibility: Fully accessible

The City of Toronto and Waterfront Toronto aredeveloping a comprehensive long-term plan to guide the revitalization of the Port Lands. The plan will include direction for the transformation of the Port Lands into a number of new districts with a variety of uses including residential, commercial and parkland.  This plan will build on the direction from the Port Lands Acceleration Initiative that was adopted by City Council in 2012.

A Master Plan (MP) under the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) process is also being developed to establish the street network (including transit), and the water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure needed to support revitalization.  The MP applies to most of the Port Lands and to the area referred to as "South of Eastern" (located north of Lake Shore Boulevard East, south of Eastern Avenue, between the Don River and Coxwell Avenue). The MP will provide a coordinated transportation and servicing strategy between the two areas.

More information about the Port Lands and the various studies currently underway is available at http://www.portlandsconsultation.ca.

If you wish to receive further information on the studies or be added to a mailing list, please contact:

Cassidy Ritz, Senior Planner                                    
Community Planning
100 Queen Street West, 18th Floor, East Tower
Toronto, ON   M5H 2N2                               
Tel:  416-397-4487   Fax:  416-392-1330
portlands@toronto.ca

news from our new blue edge

Public Notice

Help decide the future of the Gardiner Expressway East


We invite you to join us at the third public meeting where you can comment on the results of the evaluation of the alternative solutions for the future of the Gardiner Expressway East.

The Study

Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto are jointly carrying out the Gardiner Expressway / Lake Shore Boulevard Reconfiguration Environmental Assessment (EA) and Integrated Urban Design Study. The EA will determine the future of the Gardiner Expressway East and Lake Shore Boulevard East, from approximately Jarvis Street to approximately Leslie Street. The study area for the EA is displayed on the map below.

The four alternative solutions that have been considered are:
• Maintain the elevated expressway;
• Improve the urban fabric while maintaining the existing expressway;
• Replace with a new above-or-below grade expressway; and,
• Remove the elevated expressway and build a new boulevard.

Get Involved

Interested persons are invited to participate through a series of public meetings, live webcasts, workshops and online opportunities. If you can’t attend in person, you can participate and watch the meeting online at www.gardinereast.ca.

Public Meeting Details

Thursday, February 6, 2014
6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at The Bram & Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library
789 Yonge Street, Toronto (Bloor Street subway station)
Open house begins at 6:30 p.m.; presentations at 7:00 p.m.

Please register at: www.gardinereastpublicmeetingfeb6.eventbrite.ca

For more information or to be added to the project mailing list, contact info@gardinereast.ca, or call (416) 479-0662.

To learn about the project or contribute your insights and views please visit www.gardinereast.ca.
Gardiner Expressway East Study Area Map

news from our new blue edge

Public Meeting Notice

 

East Bayfront Community Update Meeting

The revitalization of East Bayfront – a formerly industrial part of our waterfront between Lower Jarvis Street and Parliament Street – is well underway.  Join Waterfront Toronto on December 3 for an update on progress in the area.

During the meeting, you’ll have an opportunity to learn more about the new, 13-acre Bayside Toronto mixed-use development from Hines and Tridel.  You’ll also hear from landscape architects, West 8 + DTAH, who will share plans for interim improvements to Queens Quay Boulevard East, which include a new stretch of Martin Goodman Trail, trees and other plantings.  In addition, Waterfront Toronto will provide a general update on other projects underway in East Bayfront and across the waterfront. A question and answer session will follow the presentations and we look forward to your comments.

Public Meeting Details
Date: Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Location: George Brown Waterfront Campus, Room 237, 51 Dockside Drive, Toronto, ON M5A 0B6
TTC: 6 Bay Bus to Dockside Drive at Queens Quay East.
Parking: Paid parking is available at George Brown Waterfront Campus, 51 Dockside Drive
Accessibility: Fully accessible

For additional information, call (416) 214-1344 x276 or email info@waterfrontoronto.ca


Public notice information.


Waterfront Toronto








Reminder: Public Meeting Notice

 

Port Lands and South of Eastern Planning Studies


Overview
Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto will be hosting a public meeting on November 28 at Riverdale Collegiate from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. We will be discussing and getting public input into shaping the future of the Port Lands, including specific topics such as the Port Lands Planning Framework; Cousins Quay Precinct Plan and Film Studio Precinct Plan; South of Eastern Strategic Direction; and a Transportation and Servicing Master Plan – Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA).

The meeting will feature an open house from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m, a series of short presentations and a question and answer session. Further information on each of the topics and full meeting details are available in the meeting notice.

Public Meeting Details
Date: Thursday, November 28, 2013
Time: Open House: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Presentations and Q & A: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Riverdale Collegiate – Atrium and Auditorium, 1094 Gerrard Street East
TTC: 506 Carlton streetcar (to Jones Ave) or 83 Jones bus (to Gerrard Ave)
Parking: On-street – Gerrard Avenue or Jones Avenue
Accessibility: Fully accessible


More information about the studies is available at http://www.portlandsconsultation.ca.













 





news from our new blue edge

Reminder: Public Notice

 

Help decide the future of the Gardiner Expressway East


The Project

Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto have resumed the preparation of the Gardiner Expressway / Lake Shore Boulevard Reconfiguration Environmental Assessment (EA) and Integrated Urban Design Study. The EA will determine the future of the Gardiner Expressway East and Lake Shore Boulevard East, from approximately Jarvis Street to approximately Leslie Street. Four alternatives will be considered within the study area, including: maintaining, improving, replacing, or removing the elevated expressway. Improvements to other roadways could also be required.

Gardiner Expressway East Study Area Map

Public Meeting Details

Date: Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
(Open house will begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by presentations at 7:00 p.m.)
Location: The Bram & Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street, Toronto (Bloor Street subway station)

Please register for the event at: http://gardinereastpublicmeeting2.eventbrite.ca

If you can’t attend the meeting in person, you can participate and watch the meeting online.  Please join us at www.gardinereast.ca where you can learn about the project and contribute your insights, ideas, and views on the alternative solutions and evaluation criteria, beginning October 16.  For more information or to be added to the project mailing list, contact info@gardinereast.ca, or call (416) 479-0662.
 






 

Waterfront Toronto

  Toronto












news from our new blue edge

Reminder: Public Meeting Notice

 

Lower Yonge Precinct Planning

On October 10th, Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto will hold a second public meeting to present a draft set of urban design guidelines and alternative transportation networks for the Lower Yonge Precinct. Your input is an important part of the process.

We invite you to attend this public forum to learn more and share your thoughts on the guidelines and alternatives being considered. The presentation begins at 6:30 p.m. followed by a question and answer and feedback session.

To learn more about the project or review materials from the first public meeting on our Lower Yonge project page.
  

Lower Yonge Precinct

Between Yonge Street and Lower Jarvis Street south of Lake Shore Boulevard East and north of Queens Quay East. The transportation plan will also address the role of Harbour Street as far west as Lower Simcoe Street.

Public Meeting #2 Details

Date: Thursday, October 10, 2013
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Metro Hall (Room 308/309), 55 John Street
TTC: St. Andrew Station or 504 King Streetcar to John Street
Parking: Car Park 52 – 40 York Street

During the Municipal Class EA and planning process, Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto will be collecting comments and information regarding this project from the public under the authority of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, s. 136(c) and the Planning Act, 1990. Personal information collected will be maintained in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Privacy Protection Act and may be used to provide updates on this file. Questions about the collection of this information can be directed to the City Planning Division, City of Toronto


Public notice information.


Waterfront TorontoToronto









Copyright (C) 2013 Waterfront Toronto All rights reserved.
You are receiving our monthly newsletter because you signed up at www.waterfrontoronto.ca
Toronto
Ontario
Canada

Toronto




news from our new blue edge

Public Notice

 

Help decide the future of the Gardiner Expressway East


The Project

Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto have resumed the preparation of the Gardiner Expressway / Lake Shore Boulevard Reconfiguration Environmental Assessment (EA) and Integrated Urban Design Study. The EA will determine the future of the Gardiner Expressway East and Lake Shore Boulevard East, from approximately Jarvis Street to approximately Leslie Street. Four alternatives will be considered within the study area, including: maintaining, improving, replacing, or removing the elevated expressway. Improvements to other roadways could also be required.

Gardiner Expressway East Study Area Map

Public Meeting Details

Date: Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
(Open house will begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by presentations at 7:00 p.m.)
Location: The Bram & Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street, Toronto (Bloor Street subway station)

Please register for the event at: http://gardinereastpublicmeeting2.eventbrite.ca

If you can’t attend the meeting in person, you can participate and watch the meeting online.  Please join us at www.gardinereast.ca where you can learn about the project and contribute your insights, ideas, and views on the alternative solutions and evaluation criteria, beginning October 16.  For more information or to be added to the project mailing list, contact info@gardinereast.ca, or call (416) 479-0662.
 






This notice issued on September 19, 2013


Waterfront Toronto

  Toronto








news from our new blue edge

August 2013

 

Corktown Common, Toronto’s Latest Waterfront Park to Remain Open

 

Corktown Common, Waterfront Toronto’s popular new park in the West Don Lands, will remain open until at least Thanksgiving weekend to allow the public to continue to enjoy this beautiful space.


Corktown Common's marsh is home to all kinds of birds, bugs and frogs.

Corktown Common was originally scheduled to close on September 2. A key component of the revitalization of the area, Corktown Common is fast establishing itself as the heart of this emerging new waterfront community, drawing visitors from across the city.

Parks and public spaces help create a sense of identity and place and are critical to the development of new neighbourhoods. Another example of Waterfront Toronto’s approach to sustainable city building, Corktown Common offers something for everyone and at 7.3 hectares (18 acres) is the largest park in the area.

The playgrounds, splash pad, tables, benches and large central lawn are already proving popular with park visitors and families. The large marsh, an integral part of the onsite stormwater management system, is home to birds, bugs, frogs and ducks and is providing visitors with an opportunity to enjoy nature in the heart of the city.

With stunning views of Toronto’s skyline, the Don River and beyond, the park capitalizes on the unique landscape offered by the flood protection landform it’s built upon. The park is an innovative and creative use of the vital flood protection infrastructure that has removed the flood risk for 210 hectares (518 acres) of prime Toronto real estate, including part of Toronto’s financial district.

Corktown Common is located between Bayview Avenue and the GO/CN railroad lines, from King Street to the rail corridor in the south in the West Don Lands. The West Don Lands, a 32 hectare (80 acre) site being transformed from former industrial lands into a sustainable, mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly, riverside community, is one of the first communities being developed as part of waterfront revitalization.

Barrier-free access to Corktown Common is from Bayview Avenue at Lower River Street. The park can also be accessed from the Don Valley Trail at the Bala Underpass.  The park cannot be accessed by car and onsite parking is not available.

Designed and built as part of the revitalization of Toronto’s waterfront, ownership of Corktown Common will be transferred to the City of Toronto when complete. Once transferred, the park will be operated and maintained by the Parks, Forestry and Recreation Department.
 













 




Waterfront Toronto invites you to participate in a Virtual Townhall

 

In conjunction with the launch of our first Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability Report, we are pleased to invite you to participate in a live, online panel discussion on October 9, to discuss the interconnectedness between data, performance reporting and city building.

Hosted by Waterfront Toronto and presented by Cisco in association with the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) and the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, the virtual gathering offers participants an opportunity to engage with a distinguished panel of thought leaders and industry experts in an interactive discussion moderated by Peter Halsall, President and CEO of CUI.

Led by Peter Halsall, the 90-minute event will feature sustainability leaders from the private, academic and non-profit sectors discussing the role high performance buildings, transparency and data-driven planning processes, and innovation play in advancing leadership in city building.

Waterfront Toronto’s Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability Report, highlights our progress, challenges, and achievements from inception to December 2012.
 



Image
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Time: 2:00 pm to 3:30pm
For information on how to participate: info@waterfrontoronto.ca




Waterfront Toronto Employment Initiative expands to organizations across Toronto

 

Are you an employer in Toronto looking to hire qualified candidates? The Waterfront Toronto Employment Initiative (WTEI) is expanding to include employers from the broader community. In collaboration with the City of Toronto and local partner agencies, Waterfront Toronto operates the program as a way to connect unemployed and underemployed people with the job and training opportunities generated by waterfront revitalization projects.


Construction crews install granite brick to form the water's edge promenade.

To date the program has promoted more than 30 job postings of varying skill level for positions such as General Labourer, Security Guard, Survey Assistant, Project Administrator, Communication and Estimator, Financial Analyst, Investment Associate, and Senior Systems Analyst. Building on the program’s success, the expansion seeks to assist employers from a wider range of fields and support local businesses in the waterfront area and across Toronto. Regardless of the position, WTEI helps connect employers with qualified candidates through access to human resource services at no cost.

The initiative works with local partner agencies to provide employers with access to a large, diverse pool of qualified candidates and offers pre-screening of the candidates to match unique recruitment needs without obligation to hire. Employers that have used WTEI either in place of or alongside their normal recruitment process have found that the program increased their access to qualified candidates without increasing recruitment costs. Many employers also engage with the program by attending information sharing and networking events or by participating in mentorship opportunities. For job seekers, WTEI can help find suitable employment opportunities, provide coaching and access to learning opportunities, and offer post-hire job retention support.

WTEI was initiated with the support of the West Don Lands Committee, a coalition of waterfront community associations, and has evolved into a collaborative partnership between Waterfront Toronto, the City of Toronto, and numerous local partners, including George Brown College, Dixon Hall, YMCA of Greater Toronto, the Consortium of Agencies Serving Internationally-trained Persons (CASIP), the Toronto & Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), Youth Employment Partnerships (YEP), and the Central Ontario Building Trades’ (COBT) Hammer Heads program.

If you are an employer and would like to participate in the Waterfront Toronto Employment Initiative, or if you are unemployed or underemployed and feel you would benefit from the support and training offered through the Waterfront Toronto Employment Initiative please visit www.waterfrontoronto.ca/wtei
 














 




 

In Brief


Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection EA & Lower Don Lands Infrastructure Class EA Summary Report
The draft summary detailing feedback, participant questions, and project team responses from the July 24
th public meeting is now available for review. Learn more…

Cherry Beach Sports Fields meet public demand for recreational facilities
Did you know the Cherry Beach Sports Fields are among one of the most requested permits in the City? Waterfront Toronto along with the City of Toronto opened these two regulation-sized elite soccer and lacrosse fields in September 2008 to keep up with the high demand for versatile playing fields with a wide range of programming activities. In addition, a seasonal fully accessible washroom facility, designed by Montgomery Sisam Architects was built and opened in May 2012 to better accommodate this well used public space. Learn more…
Summertime activities bring fun to the water's edge
A wide range of fun summertime activities brought crowds to Toronto’s waterfront this summer. From Jane’s Walk to Doors Open, to the Redpath Waterfront Festival and the Open Roof Festival, there was fun to be had for people of all ages. Take a look at our recap of the best moments from the sunny season. Read the full post…
 





 

Construction Update: Queens Quay Revitalization

 

In August, crews completed the installation of the granite promenade in front of the Westin Hotel and opened the full sidewalk area to the public. Crews are now focused on rebuilding the southside roadway and an off-street Martin Goodman Trail in front of the hotel. This new stretch of Martin Goodman Trail is designed to connect to the recently opened section of trail between Lower Yonge and Lower Jarvis Streets. The area in front of the Westin is expected to open to motorists and cyclists in early September.

Work is also progressing across the rest of the 1.7 kilometre work zone (from just west of Spadina to just east of Bay Street) where crews are working to complete the installation of deep services infrastructure such as storm and sanitary sewers, new catch basins and fire hydrants. Crews also completed the remaining demolition work within the Spadina Loop and will begin to rebuild this complicated piece of TTC infrastructure in September.

If you are interested in more details about construction, including information about impacts associated with the rebuild of the TTC corridor, please sign up for our weekly Queens Quay construction notice or read it online.
 



Video Recap: Jane's Walk - Building the New Queens Quay
Building the New Queens Quay
We're rebuilding Toronto's main waterfront boulevard from the ground up. Watch this video to see how we’re bringing the vision to life.


Need More Information?
Thank you for your patience during construction. If you have questions send an email to info@waterfrontoronto.ca or call 416-214-9990.


For Urgent Construction Issues
Please contact Queens Quay Construction Liaison Officer, Robert Pasut at RPasut@easternconstruction.com or call 416-505-3073. 



Construction Update: Pan/Parapan Am Athletes’ Village/Canary District

 

Roadwork/Infrastructure
Crews continue to install silva cells, concrete curbs, road base, the base for interlocking walkways, sidewalks and road pavers throughout the development.

The reconstruction of the west side of Sumach Street continues to progress.  The retaining wall at the corner of Sumach Street and Eastern Avenue is complete, and work will begin shortly on the second retaining wall below the underpass.  During reconstruction north/south access will be maintained along the east side of Sumach Street. There will be no street parking available during this time.


A view of the Canary District market condominiums at Bayview Avenue and Front Street.

The work on Old Eastern Avenue is nearing completion. Tree planting has been completed and the base coat of asphalt has been applied. The finish coat of asphalt will commence in October.

On Cherry Street, the TTC has installed the new streetcar tracks from north of Eastern Avenue, through the intersection to south of Mill Street.  Crews are now pouring the top layer of concrete for the tracks and the installation of the granite curbs and brick pavers is underway.

Please be advised the both Cherry Street between Eastern Avenue and Lake Shore Boulevard East, and Old Eastern Avenue will remain closed to through traffic until fall 2013 to allow for the completion of the reconstruction of Cherry Street and Old Eastern Avenue. Access will be maintained to All City Storage.
YMCA/George Brown College
The installation of the curtain wall (exterior windows) is well underway to the top of the east tower of the George Brown College student residence and crews have completed pouring the mechanical penthouse of the north tower. In the east tower, studding and drywall are in process.  At the YMCA building, the installation of the roof will begin in September and exterior masonry is underway. The second YMCA/GBC crane will be decommissioned within the next month.  Elevator equipment has been delivered and installation will begin in September.
Affordable Housing Buildings
At the Fred Victor building, window wall installation is complete, roof installation is in progress and interior framing and drywall work is ongoing. At the Wigwamen building, window wall installation is 50% complete and work on the retail enclosure is ongoing. Crews continue to work on the exterior stud and sheathing, and fan coil units are being installed. Inside the building, framing and drywall work is ongoing. Elevator equipment has been delivered for both buildings.
Canary District Condominiums
On the first market housing condominium, crews are forming and pouring the penthouse level on the north tower, and forming and pouring the 7th floor slab on the south tower. The mechanical and electrical rough-in is in progress and the elevator equipment has been delivered.  The precast brick installation has begun on the north tower.

On the second market housing building, crews are pouring the 10th floor slab and vertical columns up to the 11th floor in the north tower.  On the south tower, crews are pouring and forming the 6th floor. Mechanical and electrical rough-in is in progress. The precast brick installation has begun on the north tower.

For more information on the award winning Canary District or to view the live construction feed visit their website at www.canarydistrict.com or their sales centre located at 9 Mill Street.
 




 

Construction Update: Toronto Community Housing


Toronto Community Housing’s three-building development located at 589 King Street East in the West Don Lands will provide 243 affordable rental units for families and seniors. Occupancy of all three buildings is scheduled for winter 2013.


The seniors building on King Street at River Street.

At the seniors building on King Street, exterior brick work and roofing is complete and window installation is almost complete. Inside the building, elevator installation, masonry work, mechanical and electrical distribution and the installation of drywall partitions continues. Plumbing fixtures, tiling in the kitchens, bathrooms and corridors, as well as parquet flooring in the living, dining, and bedrooms is underway, and appliances continue to be installed.

At the family buildings located between Lower River and St. Lawrence Street, exterior masonry work and window installation is ongoing. The roof has been completed on the River Street building and roof work on the St. Lawrence Street building continues. Inside the buildings, wood structures are almost complete and mechanical and electrical distribution, drywall, and flooring continue to be installed.

 








Public Meeting Notice: Lower Yonge Precinct Planning

 

On September 19, Waterfront Toronto and the City of Toronto will hold a second public meeting to present a draft set of urban design guidelines and alternative transportation networks for the Lower Yonge Precinct. Your input is an important part of the process.

We invite you to attend this public forum to learn more and share your thoughts on the guidelines and alternatives being considered. The presentation begins at 6:30 p.m. followed by a question and answer and feedback session.

Complete meeting details are available in our online calendar. You may also learn more about the project or review materials from the first public meeting on our Lower Yonge  project page.
 



Image
Lower Yonge Precinct 
Between Yonge Street and Lower Jarvis Street south of Lake Shore Boulevard East and north of Queens Quay East. 

Public Meeting #2
Date: Thursday, September 19, 2013
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Metro Hall (Room 308/309), 55 John Street
TTC: St. Andrew Station or 504 King Streetcar to John Street
Parking: Car Park 52 – 40 York Street






Copyright (C) 2013 Waterfront Toronto All rights reserved.
You are receiving our monthly newsletter because you signed up at www.waterfrontoronto.ca
Toronto
Ontario
Canada

Toronto



City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

News Release

July 10, 2013

Mayor Rob Ford declares Pan Am/Parapan Am Day in Toronto

Mayor Rob Ford officially declared today to be Pan Am/Parapan Am Day in celebration of the two-year countdown to the 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games.

"I am very proud to proclaim Pan Am/Parapan Am Day in our great city." said Mayor Rob Ford. "Hosting the 2015 Games will strengthen Toronto's international reputation, further increase economic development opportunities across the city and create a sport and infrastructure legacy while showcasing Toronto as a dynamic and diverse city."

A two-year countdown event held at Commerce Court (25 King St. W. at Bay Street) today profiled many of the exciting sports that will be featured during the 2015 Games: an award-winning trampoline routine by Olympic silver medallist Jason Burnett, demonstrations from top Ontario BMX riders as well as trials in rugby, modern pentathlon and sitting volleyball. Olympic and Paralympic athletics were also present to sign autographs and pose for pictures with fans.

The event also featured the unveiling of the Pan Am Mural Experience presented by CIBC. Ten murals created by sports artist David Arrigo were officially presented and displayed for the first time. The one-of-a-kind artworks capture the unique cultural and sporting history of each of the municipalities and/or community areas serving as venues for the 2015 Games. After the Games, the murals will remain in the communities as permanent mementoes.

Also on display were some of the 41 pianos that were transformed into works of art by visual artists from the Pan American community. Each piano represents the spirit and culture of a country participating in the Games and has been donated to Toronto by the Games' organizing committee, TO2015. The pianos will be installed at community centres across the city later this year.

Music and a variety of food trucks rounded out the celebration.

"Today's event offers a mere sample of what this city can expect during the Pan Am/Parapan Am Games in 2015," said Councillor Mark Grimes (Ward 6 Etobicoke-Lakeshore), the Mayor's Pan Am/Parapan Am Games Champion. "We're going to see elite sports competition, cultural celebrations and interaction with an international audience that will make a lasting impression. And of equal importance, our investment in the 2015 Games will benefit Torontonians for generations to come."

After welcoming 10,000+ athletes, coaches and officials as well as hundreds of thousands of visitors from across North and South America, the Games will leave a lasting legacy for Toronto residents and businesses through new and improved athletic infrastructure across the city.

For more information about the TORONTO 2015 Games visit http://www.toronto.ca/panam2015/

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

- 30 -


Media contact: Andrea Gonsalves, Senior Communications Advisor, Strategic Communications, 416-397-4149, agonsalv@toronto.ca





























1 comment:

  1. Thanks for sharing such important information with us it’s such appreciable description. Your blog article is truly very authentic.

    Security Service in Vancouver | Residential Security Vancouver

    ReplyDelete