UrbanToronto

Dysfunction Junction: Permanent Obstructions at Union Station

Sean Marshall — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 17:54:34 -0400

Toronto can, and should, do better than the ugly and intrusive new barriers that are being installed around Union Station.

New blocks installed in front of Union Station at Front and York streets, image by Sean Marshall

When it was learned that Union Station was finally getting permanent bollards to replace the haphazardly-placed Jersey barriers that have sat in front of the transport hub since 2018, I was relieved. I wrote about these barriers several times on my own website, criticizing their appearance and their placement, blocking the way for the thousands of people who cross Front Street every day. But when I went to see them in person, after seeing criticism online, I was dismayed.

The new permanent barriers might even be worse than the temporary obstructions they are meant to replace.

The Jersey barriers were hastily placed after a tragic attack on Yonge Street in North York, where a man intentionally drove a rented van on to the sidewalk, killing ten pedestrians and injuring and traumatizing many more.

Vehicular assaults on crowds of pedestrians are a major concern; tactics used at mass gatherings — such as the winter light show and New Years Eve events at Nathan Phillips Square and major concerts and playoff games at the Rogers Centre and Scotiabank Arena — now include blocking closed streets with heavy vehicles such as snow plows, dump trucks, and city buses. However, Union Station is the only place in the city where officials have decided that new permanent barriers were necessary.

Union Station is one of the busiest pedestrian areas in the city, image by Sean Marshall

The new permanent barriers are not the sturdy, yet narrow bollards that are used elsewhere. Instead, they are large, undecorated concrete blocks anchored into the ground and are knee-high. The plain concrete colour does not match the stone sidewalks or plaza. They are placed very close together, impeding access for those using large carts, strollers, or wheeled mobility devices. Despite all the money spent renovating Union Station, these blocks look cheap.

Concrete blocks at the corner of York and Front Street at Union Station, image by Sean Marshall

The total cost of installing the “Custom Anti-Terror Concrete Barriers,” as the city described the bid, was $2,438,238, including HST. The lowest bid, by South Central Inc., came over a $1 million cheaper than the other two bids. It is worth noting that there are no public documents that describe the city’s specifications for the contract, nor was there any public consultation before the city solicited bids.

The result? An aesthetic failure and an accessibility challenge.

Video showing pedestrians going around the concrete blocks in front of Union Station

I cannot understand the city’s decision to go with these blocks where more elegant and pedestrian-friendly alternatives are typically used elsewhere. For example, the Austrian Parliament Building in Vienna, which faces the famous and busy Ringstrasse, is protected by smaller concrete bollards, which are also more widely separated, making it much more pleasant for pedestrians to get by.

Thick concrete bollards in front of the Austrian Parliament Building, 2023, image by Sean Marshall

In Great Britain, metal bollards are common on busy commercial streets and in front of important buildings, but they are easy for pedestrians to pass, and generally blend in.

Metal bollards in front of the Royal Courts of Justice in London, image by Sean Marshall

In the United States, government buildings are also protected by heavy anti-vehicular barricades (especially since the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing), but they are generally more permeable for pedestrians.

Metal bollards protect the federal courthouse in Downtown Manhattan, image via Google Street View

It is also worth noting that other popular pedestrian areas, such as the Yonge-Dundas intersection, are not protected from a potential vehicular attack — or an unintentional collision. It is beyond comprehension why the city only focused on protecting one pedestrian area, using such a poorly thought-out design. Toronto can — and should — do better.

UrbanToronto will continue to follow progress on this development, but in the meantime, you can learn more about it from our Database file, linked below. If you'd like, you can join in on the conversation in the associated Project Forum thread or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.

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UrbanToronto has a research service, UTPro, that provides comprehensive data on development projects in the Greater Golden Horseshoe — from proposal through to completion. We also offer Instant Reports, downloadable snapshots based on location, and a daily subscription newsletter, New Development Insider, that tracks projects from initial application.

Terracotta Cladding Appearing On New Wallace Emerson Community Centre

Anthony Teles — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 16:58:29 -0400

Green-glazed terracotta cladding has begun to transform the exterior of the new Wallace Emerson Community Centre at the Galleria on the Park community in Toronto’s Dupont and Dufferin area. Designed by Perkins&Will for Almadev, the new, larger facility will replace the existing community centre to the east. UrbanToronto last provided an update in November, 2024, shortly after the community’s inaugural two towers welcomed their first residents.

Looking north to Wallace Emerson Community Centre, designed by Perkins&Will for Almadev

An atypical cladding choice in North America, but far more comon in Europe, the panels are supplied by NBK Architectural Terracotta, a German manufacturer. Part of their TERRART® system, the panels were custom-designed for the project. The procurement process proved complex, with the order placed in 2023 to account for the specialized production timeline and overseas shipping.

A photo from January, 2025, below, provides a close-up view of some of the first of the newly installed panels on the building's north elevation. Each green-glazed panel is secured to a concealed support system, with horizontal gaps seen between rows to allow for thermal movement and drainage, and will act as a rainscreen system, with an extruded profile and vertically fluted ridges. The wall behind the panels is lined with insulation.

A close-up view of the terracotta panels, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Installation is seen here advancing on the north and east elevations, with construction crew members seen working from a boom lift on the east elevation at the upper left corner of the photo. The elevations' angular geometry is evident here, where floor-to-ceiling glazing follows a downward-sloping line toward the northeast corner, contrasting with the upward slope along the roofline.

Cladding installation on the east and north elevations, viewed from Dupont Street, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor evanb

Meanwhile, along the west elevation, the panels contrast with the uniform white masonry cladding which covers the southwest end. At the top left are mounting slots and brackets in place for upcoming panel installation. An articulating boom lift is stationed next to staged materials.

Terracotta panelling contrasting the white cladding on the west elevation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Looking south along the east side, panelling extends along the curved facade of the east elevation. A temporary construction fence separates the active construction zone from the occupied Galleria 01 & 02 towers to the left. Further south will be a ‘Public Forum’ area between the two buildings of the community centre, leading to the updated park area designed by Public Work.

Looking south to the curved east elevation across from Galleria 01 & 02, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

At the southeast end, recent progress includes the installation of dark-tinted glazing panels across much of the second level, framed by black mullions. Below, a stretch of white tarp covers the ground floor, providing weather protection for ongoing interior work. Additional insulation has been applied around the two sections of glazing on the left, in preparation for the terracotta panels. Construction materials are staged in the foreground between the community centre’s main building and the smaller Field House to the east.

Insulation around recently installed glazing panels in preparation for further terracotta panels, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Looking south, the Field House’s angular upper section is clad in weatherproofing, while we see a section of grey brick cladding installed at the right end of this upper section. At grade, glazing has been installed on the left side, while the right side features sections of white masonry cladding.

Ongoing exterior work on the Field House to the east, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

The new community centre is expected to be completed in Summer 2026.

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Scarborough Health Network Plans Education Centre at Centenary Hospital

Anthony Teles — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:26:16 -0400

Scarborough Health Network (SHN) is planning a new Education Centre and parking garage at its Centenary Hospital site on Ellesmere Road in Scarborough. Designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects, the proposed buildings would stand on land that is currently surface parking lot. The project, advancing in partnership with the new medical programme at the University of Toronto 's Scarborough Campus (UTSC), would provide educational facilities for the under-construction Academy of Medicine and Integrated Health.

Looking southwest to the SHN Education Centre & Parkade, designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects for Scarborough Health Network

Located at 2867 Ellesmere Road, on its south side where it meets Neilson Road, the site spans 23,076m², the hospital is an acute care facility. Morningside Park borders the property to the west and south, while to the east are healthcare-related facilities such as the Thomas J. Shoniker Building and Seven Oaks Long-Term Care.

Looking south to the existing site and hospital, image retrieved from Google Maps

A Pre-Application Consultation was held in July, 2024, followed by discussions with City Planning staff in September, 2024. Feedback from these meetings informed the Site Plan Approval application, submitted by Urban Strategies Inc. on behalf of SHN in February, 2025.

The L-shaped Education Centre would rise six storeys (35m) and span 17,170m², and include facilities to train future healthcare professionals in partnership with the UTSC. It would house a Family Medical Teaching Unit along with a Clinical Dialysis Wing equipped with 45 dialysis stations.

Ground floor plan, designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects for Scarborough Health Network

Positioned between the Education Centre and existing hospital, a 28,715m² parking garage would also rise six storeys (but be only about two thirds the height of the education centre at 23.45m) with seven levels of parking. It would accommodate 907 spaces, while 114 additional spaces would be provided in reconfigured surface lots. Combined with 588 retained spaces elsewhere on the site, the total parking supply would increase to 1,609 spaces, a net gain of 333 spaces.

Site plan, designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects for Scarborough Health Network

Overall, this entails 1,555 regular spaces and 54 accessible spaces. For cyclists, the project proposes 16 short-term and 11 long-term spaces. A passenger pick-up and drop-off area is planned along the south side of the Education Centre, designed for patients using the Dialysis Wing and those arriving via TTC Wheel-Trans or non-emergency patient transfer vehicles. To support connections with the University of Toronto Scarborough, a shuttle bus lay-by would be located along the West Service Road, adjacent to the Education Centre.

Context plan, image from submission to City of Toronto

The nearest TTC stop is located at Ellesmere Road at Neilson Road, approximately 50m or a 1-minute walk. Several bus routes connect the area to stations on Lines 1 and 2. Nearby cycling routes include the Orton Park Wayfinding Sharrows and multi-use trails along Ellesmere Road, Gatineau, and Highland Creek, located up to 1.7km away. The planned Eglinton East Light Rail Transit is set to extend eastward from the Eglinton Line 5 Crosstown LRT, passing through the UTSC campus and serving the hospital area. Additionally, the proposed Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit would use Ellesmere Road east of McCowan Road to eventually connect as far as Oshawa via Kingston Road.

An aerial view of the site and surrounding current and future transit, image from submission to City of Toronto

To the south, the Centenary Hospital Emergency Department Redevelopment is proposed at 2 storeys. To the east, along Morningside Avenue, UTSC is expanding with several projects, including the 2-storey Indigenous House, currently under construction, as well as the medical school and Retail and Parking Commons, both rising 6 storeys. Nearby, 750 Morningside is proposed at 4 storeys, while the 26-storey 3070 Ellesmere is also under construction.

With the Education Centre intended to open for UTSC’s Fall, 2027 semester, the project is advancing on an accelerated timeline. Certain materials, including a Construction Management Plan and Natural Heritage Impact Study, are pending and will be submitted in a future resubmission.

Landscaped walkway at SHN Education Centre & Parkade, designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects for Scarborough Health Network

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News Roundup for March 13, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0400

City exploring automated cameras for ‘block the box’ infractions on King Street corridor; Toronto considers deferring some condo development fees in face of tariff war — but stops short of waivers; fleet services to take over Toronto ferries as report on how to improve service released; and other news.

City exploring automated cameras for ‘block the box’ infractions on King Street corridor (CP24)

Toronto considers deferring some condo development fees in face of tariff war — but stops short of waivers (The Star)

Fleet services to take over Toronto ferries as report on how to improve service released (CityNews)

Tarion deposit payout expected to hit $80 million for 2024, the highest in its history — with majority of claims for illegally sold homes (The Star)

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Toronto: A parade, a run, music and green beer (The Star)

Toronto shifts ferry management after consultant finds services ‘fall short’ of industry standards (The Star)

Last Chance?

Craig White — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Sunday — if it even holds out until then as things seem to be warming up quickly — is your last chance to skate on the rink in Nathan Phillips Square for the Winter '24-'25 Season. Captured below much earlier in the season by UrbanToronto Flickr Pool contributor Alex Meoko, our annual frozen slip'n'slide site is soon to be a reflecting pool again.

Busy skating rink in Nathan Phillips Square in front of Toronto City Hall, image by UrbanToronto Flickr Pool contributor Alex Meoko

Want to see your work featured as Daily Photo? You can post in the City Photos & Videos section of the UrbanToronto Forum, or submit your images to our UrbanToronto Flickr Pool for your chance to be featured on our Front Page.

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UrbanToronto has a research service, UTPro, that provides comprehensive data on construction projects in the Greater Golden Horseshoe — from proposal through to completion. We also offer Instant Reports, downloadable snapshots based on location, and a daily subscription newsletter, New Development Insider, that tracks projects from initial application.

Daniels on Parliament Tops Off in Regent Park

Anthony Teles — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:40:52 -0400

Daniels on Parliament has topped off, soon to cap their part of a nearly-two-decade long effort to revitalize Toronto’s Regent Park community. It began in 2006 when the Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) selected The Daniels Corporation as its development partner for the project’s initial phases; Daniels on Parliament marks the final piece of the third phase of redevelopment here. Designed by Superkül with KIRKOR Architects and Planners as Architect of Record, the project features a 10-storey north building and 25-storey south tower. UrbanToronto's last update was in August, 2024.

Looking northeast to Daniels on Parliament, designed by Superkül with Kirkor Architects Planners as Architect of Record for The Daniels Corporation

From Oak Street, the south elevation of the 25-storey tower’s podium features two distinct precast brick finishes: a light buff brick veneer along the podium base, then darker red brick above the second floor. Inset balconies are topped by concrete slabs with painted undersides, as seen on the third-floor corner balcony, with shoring posts remaining in place while the concrete continues to cure. Glazing and black louvres are installed across the podium.

A close-up view of the contrasting white and red precast brick cladding installed on the podium levels, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor christiesplits

In a view from December, 2024, the mid-rise north building (right) topped off the month prior. A construction hoist was installed along the east elevation, and to the left, formwork is in place for the final residential floors of the south tower. Additional formwork is staged atop the five-storey podium volume at the southeast corner, where cladding is nearing completion, save for exposed concrete parapet sections awaiting finishing work.

An aerial view looking northwest to the topped off north tower (right), image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor skycandy

A more distant view looking southeast in January, 2025 shows the 25-storey south tower now topped off. The image offers a clear view of the project's overall massing, with a C-shaped podium enclosing a central courtyard, while the taller tower anchors the southwest corner and the lower volume steps up to the north.

A distant aerial view looking southeast to the mechanical penthouse of the topped off 25-storey tower, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Froggy

The taller tower’s construction hoist is installed along its south elevation, seen here in February, 2025. Brick installation has advanced to the seventh floor of the north building, visible on the far right. At grade, the south elevation along Oak Street will feature a residential entrance clad in pre-finished aluminum complemented by light cherry wood-look finishes.

Brick cladding installation on the podium's south and east elevations, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Looking north along Parliament Street, the taller tower’s projecting balcony slabs define its facade. A tarped section at the southwest corner marks where glazing is pending installation. Above, insulation panelling is in place at the corner, being readied for cladding, with additional insulation seen at the fifth-floor level on the right. To the left, cladding has reached the seventh floor on the south volume of the 10-storey tower. The west elevation along Parliament Street will feature retail entrances framed by painted curtain wall glazing, topped by a pre-finished metal canopy.

Looking north from Parliament Street to the 25-storey south tower, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Looking southwest this month, white precast panels are now installed between floors five and seven on the right. The volume on the left has glazing largely completed, while on the right, glazing is installed across the first three floors.

Cladding progress, including white precast panels, on the east elevation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor GenerationLee

The complex will deliver a combined total of 643 residential units, standing at 40.7m and 88.25m.

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Resubmission Boosts Brampton's Apple Factory Site Redevelopment Plans

Anthony Teles — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 13:05:24 -0400

Brampton’s Planning and Development Committee has recommended approval for revised plans of a major redevelopment at the site of the Apple Factory farm market at Bovaird Drive and Mississauga Road. Designed by Architecture Unfolded for Glen Rouge Homes and Carom Management Inc., the resubmission has grown to four towers, now up to 35 storeys tall, alongside three blocks of 3-storey townhouses.

Looking northwest to 2036 Boivard Drive West, designed by Architecture Unfolded for Glen Rouge Homes & Carom Management

The site in Brampton’s Mount Pleasant area is addressed to 2036 Bovaird Drive West, along with 10020, 10024, 10042, and 10054 Mississauga Road, and occupies approximately 29,098m² at their northwest corner. Currently home to the Apple Factory farm market, a storage facility, and three residential dwellings, it is surrounded by a mix of planned and established developments. Draft-approved subdivisions look to deliver low- to medium-density mixed-use buildings to the north and west, with natural heritage lands to the east and commercial uses to the south.

An aerial view of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Brampton

Redevelopment of the site was initially proposed in April, 2023 with three high-rise towers rising to 25 storeys, six blocks of townhouses, and a total of 1,302 residential units with 3,700m² of commercial space.

Previous design, 2036 Boivard Drive West, Brampton, designed by Architecture Unfolded for Carom Management

Following feedback from Brampton’s Urban Design Review Panel in November 2023, the revised Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications replace one of the townhouse blocks with a mid-rise building, decrease the size of the podiums of the three towers but increase the corner building to 35 storeys, all while reducing the overall unit count to 1,240 units. Building heights range from 38.7m to 114.9m. The overall Gross Floor Area is 85,543m², including 83,110m² of residential space, and the project has a Floor Space Index of 3.8 times lot coverage. There would be 4,816m² of indoor and outdoor amenities.

The City also requested dedicated office space to align with plans for a potential hospital site across Bovaird Drive to the south. In response, the revised plan now incorporates 4,600m² of required office space, with flexible zoning allowing this to reduce to 2,400m² if demand does not materialize within five years. Commercial space has been reduced from 3,700m² to 2,433m², concentrated at the base of the high-rise buildings along Bovaird Drive and Mississauga Road, and the total number of townhouse blocks has decreased from six to three. The updated plan also introduces improved pedestrian connections and a more flexible layout with an open recreational space in the heart of the site.

Looking southeast to 2036 Boivard Drive West, designed by Architecture Unfolded for Glen Rouge Homes & Carom Management

The design includes a three-level underground garage with 1,078 residential spaces, 248 visitor spaces, and 128 retail spaces. Additionally, 440 bicycle parking spaces are planned. The development would proceed in phases, guided by a Master Site Plan Agreement to coordinate infrastructure, utilities, and environmental considerations. A new east-west public road would connect the site to the proposed Mount Pleasant Heights subdivision to the west.

Located approximately 1km west of Mount Pleasant GO station on the Kitchener Line, GO trains travel between there and Union Station in Downtown Toronto in 51 minutes, with several options at stops along the way. The site is also served by the Brampton Transit Züm buses providing access across that City. For active transportation, the proposal includes multi-use trails along Bovaird Drive.

Site concept plan, designed by Architecture Unfolded for Glen Rouge Homes & Carom Management

Notable growth surrounds the site and GO station. To the northwest, Mount Pleasant Heights would feature mixed-use buildings rising to 14 storeys. To the east, the under-construction Daniels Mount Pleasant Village development includes 6- and 26-storey towers in Phase 1, with Phase 2 featuring two 6-storey towers in Block A and 11- and 14-storey towers in Block B. Further east, the recently completed Uniti stands at 26 storeys, while additional proposals include Mount Pleasant Village Block 3 with towers of 32 and 34 storeys, and Block 2, which proposes seven towers ranging from 28 to 47 storeys.

Along with the Site Plan Approval applications for each phase, next steps include a Cost Sharing Agreement that must be finalized with other lands in the precinct area.

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News Roundup for March 12, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Residential real estate retrenches in face of tariff threat; St. Lawrence Market North Building will open April 5; Ontario developer accused of extracting $18M from home buyers; and other news.

Residential real estate retrenches in face of tariff threat (The Globe and Mail)

St. Lawrence Market North Building will open April 5 (CP24)

Ontario developer accused of extracting $18M from home buyers (CBC)

Bank of Canada expected to cut benchmark rate to buffer economy against tariffs (CityNews)

Sweeping Nightlines

Craig White — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Another bridge from the same family whose sibling was the side-on subject of yesterday's Daily Photo, stars in today's, this time a head-on view of the Commissioner's Street Bridge over the new mouth of the Don River. Captured by UrbanToronto Forum contributor NW87, the double vaults of the Commissioners Street bridge provide bright orange arcs across the night sky of Toronto's Port Lands.

Looking down the double-vaulted Commissioners Street bridge over the new mouth of the Don River, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor NW87

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Final Touches Underway for Theatre District Residence & Riu Plaza Hotel

Anthony Teles — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 17:15:27 -0400

Announced in 2019, the Theatre District Residence & Riu Plaza Hotel has been steadily transforming the corner of Adelaide and Widmer streets in Toronto’s Entertainment District. Six years later, while condo suites are already occupying, the project is in its final stages with finishing touches underway. Designed by BDP Quadrangle for Plaza, the 48-storey north tower houses the hotel in its lower half and condo suites on its upper floors, with a 49-storey south tower dedicated solely to residential. At their base, Victorian townhouses are also being reborn. UrbanToronto’s last update was in December, 2023, when the towers had topped off.

Looking west to Theatre District Residence and RIU Plaza Hotel, designed by Quadrangle for Plaza

Occupancy for the south tower started around May, 2024, followed by the north tower in late June. The Riu Plaza Hotel is not anticipated to open until late 2025. The townhouses are also still being worked on.

Going back a ways, we check into some of the last cladding sections being applied where the exterior construction hoists had been attached to the south tower. Here in February, 2024, at the podium levels of its southeast corner, a mobile crane assists with the hoisting and placement of amber-toned, brick-embedded precast panels. Workers on a scissor lift and in the podium align and fasten a panel above the Victorian townhomes.

Installation of cladding sections for the south tower podium, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor AHK

In May, 2024, looking southwest across Adelaide and Widmer streets, the construction hoist on the north tower’s east elevation has been disassembled, leaving a vertical gap in the facade where cladding installation is still pending. Below, the podium’s curtain wall glazing wraps the ground floor, with the brick above is meant to complement the heritage Commodore Building to the right. Above the podium, the north tower’s hotel portion continues with aluminum panel cladding with punched windows, while the upper condo levels are marked by projecting balconies.

The north tower's elevation fronting Adelaide Street, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Rascacielo

In August, 2024 at the southeast end of the south tower, a three-storey red-brick volume with a corbelled brick pattern above its third-floor window openings awaits glazing installation. In front of the entrance, a dozen egg-cup shaped planters mark the condo lobby entrance area. To the right, a blue articulated boom lift aids construction crews working on the townhomes’ exterior.

The precast brick-faced podiums above the restored Victorian-era townhomes along Widmer Avenue, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor far9251

The condo lobby entrance for the north tower is marked by its address, the ground realm cladding around featuring brown brick veneer. Above, the podium's cantilevered volume projects outward, with wood patterned soffit underneath. Streetscape improvements include more planters, seating areas, and newly planted trees.

Cantilevered podium volume on the east side of the north tower, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor far9521

By October, 2024, restoration efforts are concentrated on the Victorian-era townhomes along Widmer Street. Roofs over the doorways are being rebuilt. The brick facades showcase preserved arched window openings, rebuilt bay windows, and fish-scale shingle detailing beneath the gabled rooflines, as well as restored decorative wood trim and painted accents.

Ongoing work on the townhomes in October, 2024, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor AHK

This month, the streetscape along Widmer Street shows a newly poured concrete sidewalk stretching south, though still enclosed by construction fencing. Materials are staged at the north end. On the right, we see the refreshed wooden porches with decorative balustrades painted in muted green. Beneath the northernmost porch, we can see a wood-paneled storage enclosure that has been incorporated into the design.

Looking south along the streetscape of Widmer Avenue, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

With the townhomes awaiting occupancy, the towers each stand at 156.05m tall, housing a total of 655 residential and 350 hotel units.

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Seven-Tower Development in Hamilton to Appear Before Design Review Panel

Anthony Teles — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:14:12 -0400

Hamilton's ongoing growth, in part brought on by its lower land costs than Toronto, continues to attract major development proposals. Among the latest is a seven-tower project planned for 186 Ferguson Avenue North in the city's Beasley neighbourhood just north of Downtown. Designed by Arcadis for B & F Investments (Nova Scotia) Company and 201 Robert Street Company, the towers range from 26 to 30 storeys, and are within walking distance of the planned Hamilton Light Rail Transit (LRT). The proposal is set to go before Hamilton's Design Review Panel (DRP) on Thursday, March 13.

An aerial view looking northwest to 186 Ferguson Avenue North, designed by Arcadis for B & F Investments (Nova Scotia) Company and 201 Robert Street Company

The site spans 25,090m² at the southeast corner of Barton Street East and Ferguson Avenue North, and is addressed to 166 and 186 Ferguson Avenue North and 203 Robert Street. Currently occupied by a large surface parking lot and two vacant parcels, the surrounding neighbourhood features a mix of low-rise residential, institutional, and big-box retail uses, with Hamilton General Hospital located nearby.

An axonometric view looking northwest to the current site, image from submission to City of Hamilton

Elements remain of Hamilton’s industrial roots, once supporting factories, rail lines, and water infrastructure, noted in the Heritage Impact Assessment completed by Megan Hobson. The proposed development includes heritage-inspired features, including a curved walkway following a former rail line, a water feature, and a ghost outline on one tower commemorating the former Patterson Planing Mill. Podium materials are expected to use brick or similar cladding to complement nearby heritage properties.

Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications have been submitted to the City of Hamilton. Spanning seven blocks, the towers would range from 89.4m to 101.4m, sitting atop six-storey podiums and arranged to frame a central open space. The project’s total Gross Floor Area is approximately 169,989m², with 168,106m² dedicated to residential use and 1,883m² allocated to commercial space. The development’s Floor Space Index is 6.78 time lot coverage. Across the seven buildings, a total of 2,186 residential units are proposed.

Site plan, designed by Arcadis for B & F Investments (Nova Scotia) Company and 201 Robert Street Company

The podiums would feature active ground-level uses to support street-level animation, with commercial space in Blocks 5 and 6 and a 686m² community centre in Block 7. Townhouse units are planned along Ferguson Avenue North. There would be three elevators per tower, totalling 21 elevators, or approximately one elevator per 104 units.

Ground floor plan, designed by Arcadis for B & F Investments (Nova Scotia) Company and 201 Robert Street Company

Residents would have access to 2,836m² of indoor amenities distributed throughout the podium levels and 4,407m² of outdoor amenities, including rooftop terraces and landscaped areas linked to the central plaza. The plaza would serve as a flexible space for seasonal programming and community gatherings.

Central plaza at 186 Ferguson Avenue North, designed by Arcadis for B & F Investments (Nova Scotia) Company and 201 Robert Street Company

Four levels of underground parking would provide 1,642 spaces for residents and visitors, along with 30 surface spaces retained during earlier phases of construction. Bicycle parking provisions entail 1,796 spaces planned for long- and short-term use.

The project is planned in four phases, starting with Blocks 1 and 2, retaining some surface parking to serve Hamilton General Hospital. Phase 2 would add Blocks 3 and 4, including the central open space. Phase 3 introduces Block 5, adding retail space. In Phase 4, Blocks 6 and 7 complete the site with further retail and the community centre.

Streetscape, designed by Arcadis for B & F Investments (Nova Scotia) Company and 201 Robert Street Company

Hamilton Centre GO station lies approximately 15 minutes southwest, while West Harbour GO station sits 15 minutes northwest. The planned Hamilton LRT corridor several blocks to the south along King Street will boost connectivity, with the future Wellington Street Station planned approximately 850m south of the site. Bus routes run along Barton Street East and Cannon Street East, and cyclists are supported by dedicated bike routes on Ferguson Avenue North, and a potential new trail connection linking Ferguson Avenue North with Cathcart Street.

Map of surrounding transit, image from submission to City of Hamilton

The surrounding area is seeing significant high-rise acitivity. To the south, proposals at 205 and 188 Cannon Street East would rise 25 and 32 storeys respectively. To the northwest, the Jamesville Redevelopment calls for three towers between 12 and 20 storeys, while 282 MacNab Street North is proposed at 21 storeys. Further southwest, major projects include Beasley Park Lofts and 80 John Street North, each planned at 30 storeys, along with 92 John Street North at 31 storeys. Larger developments in the area include The Design District 41, under construction with three 31-storey towers, Tivoli Condos proposed at 35 storeys, and 73 Hughson Street North at 41 storeys.

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News Roundup for March 11, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Toronto asking rents dropped $120 a month in February over last year, a new report says, but not everyone will feel relief; cyclists seek injunction as Ontario bike lane removal work could start this month; community coming together to help bring new music venue to east end; and other news.

Toronto asking rents dropped $120 a month in February over last year, a new report says. But not everyone will feel relief (The Star)

Cyclists seek injunction as Ontario bike lane removal work could start this month (CBC)

Community coming together to help bring new music venue to east end (CityNews)

Think Toronto can do better with public washrooms? One advocacy group will pay you $1,500 for your design ideas (The Star)

TTC to set off sound cannons up to four times an hour at streetcar storage facility (CP24)

Sweeping Lines

Craig White — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Coming in for a landing at Billy Bishop Toronto City Centre Airport, a Porter plane is framed by the sweeping lines of the new Cherry Street bridge in Toronto's Port Lands in this recent image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor xmyth_.

Coming in for a landing, a Porter plane is framed by the elements of the cherry bridge in Toronto's Port Lands, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor xmyth_

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North York Centre Changes Would Bring New Housing, Parks, and Transit Upgrades

Anthony Teles — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:17:22 -0400

Toronto’s North York Centre Secondary Plan is undergoing a comprehensive review to guide future development in the district and adjacent blocks. Stretching along Yonge Street from Highway 401 north to Drewry and Cummer avenues, it has evolved over decades from a suburban grid of residential streets into a transit-oriented region with over 50,000 residents and 35,000 employees.

Study Area Map, image by City of Toronto

Revisions to the Planning Act, including measures introduced through Bills 23, 97, and 185, have changed how municipalities manage growth. These reduce regulatory oversight for smaller developments, exempting most residential projects with up to 10 units from Site Plan Control. Updated rules also shift how parkland dedication is calculated, lowering maximum rates and introducing exemptions for affordable units.

Meanwhile, the former Section 37 framework for securing public benefits has been replaced with Community Benefits Charges, which now require developers to contribute to amenities like parks and cultural spaces based on a defined formula. Inclusionary zoning regulations have also been adjusted, introducing a standardized affordability framework that requires certain new developments to allocate a portion of units for below-market housing.

The proposed Provincial Planning Statement, set to replace the existing 2020 version, introduces further changes that would impact North York Centre. The new framework eliminates the Urban Growth Centre designation and removes the requirement to meet minimum density and intensification targets, except within designated Protected Major Transit Station Areas (PMTSAs).

North York Secondary Plan area, image by City of Toronto

Now, an update to the North York Centre Plan seeks to balance new development pressures with local priorities. It proposes an expanded boundary that would extend eastward to Willowdale Avenue, incorporating additional areas to support growth, with areas like Central Finch, Sheppard Lansing, and Sheppard Willowdale identified for potential growth zones. This expansion would include the district’s three MTSAs, one centred around each subway station in the area: Sheppard-Yonge, North York Centre, and Finch. While the plan introduces new mid-rise development along Doris Avenue and Beecroft Road, some low-rise residential neighbourhoods east of Doris would be preserved to ensure a broader range of housing options. The extension also aims to create new mixed-use corridors along Empress Avenue and Willowdale Avenue.

Responding to community feedback, the Emerging Preferred Option encourages a broader mix of building types to meet the needs of families, seniors, and diverse household sizes, including family-sized units and affordable rentals. The tallest buildings would be concentrated along Yonge Street, with mid-rise development positioned along Doris Avenue and Beecroft Road. Inclusionary zoning requirements would ensure that future developments near major transit stations dedicate a portion of units to below-market housing. Further east, some low-rise residential neighbourhoods would be maintained to provide a balanced range of housing forms.

While expanding residential options, the plan also emphasizes the area's continued role as a major employment hub, with policies that support office and retail growth to maintain North York Centre’s economic presence. Efforts to enhance community services are also prioritized, with new schools, childcare facilities, and recreational amenities identified.

It also proposes changes that would extend development into areas traditionally considered part of Toronto's "yellowbelt" — low-rise residential zones that have historically resisted intensification. Proposed mid-rise development east of the Centre introduces a shift in density patterns that could face some community resistance.

Emerging Preferred Option, image by City of Toronto

This option also prioritizes improved connectivity across North York Centre, with new east-west routes designed to make walking and cycling safer and more accessible. Shared mobility hubs are proposed near transit stations and major development blocks to reduce reliance on private vehicles, offering integrated access to bike-share, car-share, and ride-share services.

In addition to approved transportation projects such as the Yonge North Subway Extension and Transform Yonge, the plan identifies potential future improvements like the Sheppard Line 4 Subway Extension and Finch West LRT East Extension, as well as upgrades to the Yonge Street and Highway 401 interchange. Plans also call for a signature trail along Wilket Creek that would connect green spaces while celebrating the area’s historical watercourse. The plan also outlines new linear parks and greened "parkways" along Doris Avenue and Beecroft Road, alongside a potential transformation of the Finch Hydro Corridor into a recreational space if TTC parking requirements at Finch Station are revised.

In-person workshops, pop-up events, and online surveys allowed residents to voice their priorities. With the updated North York Centre Secondary Plan advancing through its review process, the next steps will focus on finalizing the preferred growth strategy and developing an implementation framework.

UrbanToronto will continue to follow progress on this plan, but in the meantime, you can join in on the conversation in the associated Forum thread or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.

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13-Storey Seniors’ Residence Proposed on Yonge Street in Lytton Park

Anthony Teles — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 12:57:14 -0400

A proposal in Toronto’s Lytton Park neighbourhood is a response to the city’s demand for seniors' housing. Designed by Montgomery Sisam Architects for Amdev Property and Rockport Group, the submission outlines a 13-storey seniors’ residence and rental-replacement building, alongside a public park, situated about halfway along Yonge Street between Eglinton and Lawrence stations.

Looking southeast to 19 Alexandra, designed by Montgomery Sisam Architects for Amdev Property and Rockport Group

The development site at the southwest corner of Yonge Street and Alexandra Boulevard includes properties at 2674 through 2704 Yonge Street and 19 Alexandra Boulevard. The site is currently vacant, formerly the location of a funeral home, a 3-storey rental apartment building with 31 units and ground-floor retail, and a detached home. The surrounding area features low-rise residential properties with commercial rowhouses lining Yonge Street.

Looking southwest to the current site, image retrieved from Google Maps

In August, 2020, an application not including the lot at 19 Alexandra was submitted by the previous owner for a 9-storey residential building with 127 units, including 31 rental replacement units. A revised submission in December, 2021 reduced the unit count to 91. City Council approved the revised plan in June, 2022 through a Zoning By-law Amendment and Rental Housing Demolition Application.

Previous design by Studio JCI for Amdev Property

Now with 19 Alexandra added to the assembly, Bousfields has submitted new Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications to the City of Toronto on behalf of the new developers. Rising to 55.85m, the design features a U-shaped massing, with the open end facing south towards Snider Parkette. The building would include 237 units, consisting of 31 rental replacement units on floors 11 and 12, and 206 seniors' residence suites. These are organized by type, with 78 memory care and 52 assisted living suites on floors 2 to 6, while 76 independent living units occupy floors 7 to 10.

In response to feedback, care floor amenity terraces have been relocated to the north side facing Alexandra Boulevard, and the rental replacement units would have a separate entrance. Along Yonge Street, Snider Parkette would be expanded with a 205m² parkland dedication, and a 370m² POPS along the west side of the site linking the parkette to Alexandra Boulevard.

Site plan, designed by Montgomery Sisam Architects for Amdev Property and Rockport Group

A Gross Floor Area of 20,489m² results in a Floor Space Index of 6.79 times coverage on this 3,019m² site. Of this total, 18,063m² is allocated to the seniors’ residence and 2,406m² for the rental replacements. There would be 2,588m² of indoor and 964m² of outdoor amenities, with communal indoor and outdoor areas on levels 1 and 13, plus dedicated indoor amenity areas for memory care and assisted living residents on floors 2 to 6.

The building would have four residential elevators, or approximately one for every 59 units, which promises rapid response times. A single underground level would house 20 residential and four visitor parking spaces. Bicycle parking provisions include 28 long-term and 7 short-term spaces.

Ground floor plan, designed by Montgomery Sisam Architects for Amdev Property and Rockport Group

The site is approximately 950m (a 13-minute walk) from Lawrence station to the north, and 1.1km (a 15-minute walk) from Eglinton station to the south, with TTC bus service available along Yonge Street. East-west transit service will be improved close by with the upcoming Eglinton Line 5 Crosstown LRT, which awaits an official opening date as Metrolinx works to address remaining deficiencies. Duplex Avenue offers a bike route with connections in all directions.

An aerial view of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Toronto

The neighbouring corridor has seen steady development activity in recent years. To the north, 2722 Yonge Street is proposed at 7 storeys, while The Winslow, completed in 2023, stands at 9 storeys. Further north, 2851 and 2908 Yonge Street are planned at 7 and 13 storeys, respectively. South of the site, closer to Eglinton Avenue, development density increases. 2577 Yonge is proposed at 9 storeys, while The Capitol and 2444 Yonge Street are under construction at 15 and 31 storeys, respectively. Larger proposals include 34 Montgomery at 27 storeys, 44 Broadway Avenue at 43 storeys, 2350 Yonge at 50 storeys, towers at 2345 and 2346 Yonge reaching up to 56 storeys, and 2323 Yonge at 58 storeys.

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News Roundup for March 10, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Agents sense pent up demand from anxious home buyers; Toronto council urged to include taxi, ride-share industry in ‘Buy Local, Buy Canadian’ campaign; Bank of Canada expected to cut rate amid trade uncertainty; and other news.

Agents sense pent up demand from anxious home buyers (The Globe and Mail)

Toronto council urged to include taxi, ride-share industry in ‘Buy Local, Buy Canadian’ campaign (The Star)

‘Very difficult position’: Bank of Canada expected to cut rate amid trade uncertainty (CityNews)

Out of office: COVID normalized remote work, but is it really here to stay? (CTV News)

City of Toronto, workers' union reach 11th-hour tentative agreement (CBC)

Melting Away

Craig White — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Toronto Harbour had cleared of ice by the time this image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner was taken a week ago today, and by now the new mouth of the Don River may have cleared of ice as well. At the same time, the scaffold that at one point covered the majority of the Atlas Crane seems to be melting away too. The crane, that was once used to unload ships when this area was industrial port land, is being painted to preserve it for the future while honouring the area's past. While inaccessible to the public for the moment, it is on its way to becoming a landmark for the future Biidaasige Park that will open at the west end of the new Ookwemin Minising community that will be built on these lands.

The Atlas Crane stands in front of the Toronto skyline as Winter 2025 approaches its end, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

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42-Storey Tower Proposal Revises Markham Hilton Hotel Redevelopment

Anthony Teles — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0500

Following UrbanToronto’s coverage earlier this week of a new proposal in Downtown Markham, less than a kilometre to the west we have updates to another planned community to catch up with. Hilton Markham Suites Hotel Limited has submitted revised plans for Phase 1 of the Markham Suites Redevelopment, which is now proposed as a 42-storey residential tower designed by Giannone Petricone Associates.

Looking northwest to Markham Suites Redevelopment Phase 1, designed by Giannone Petricone Associates for Hilton Markham Suites Hotel Limited

The entire site occupies a 41,204m² parcel at the southwest corner of Highway 7 and Warden Avenue, in the Markham Town Centre area half way between Buttonville and Unionville. Addressed to 8500 Warden Avenue and 0 Clegg Road, it is currently home to a 10-storey Hilton Markham Suites Hotel and Conference Centre and a 5-storey long-term suites building, along with surface parking.

Looking northeast to the current site, image retrieved from Google Maps

Surrounding the site, Markham continues to densify as an urban growth centre with a mix of residential, commercial, office, and recreational uses. To the north and east are low and mid-rise employment lands with institutional and retail sites, while to the west and south, the area features a growing number of high-rise developments.

Designed by Scott Shields Architects, an initial application for the community in 2012 sought to convert part of the hotel into residential units and introduce two 21-storey towers along Clegg Road. By 2020, the vision had expanded significantly with Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications, and a 2021 revision proposed seven towers, including three 55-storey buildings and a 45-storey tower, surrounding the existing hotel.

Previous context plan for Markham Suite Redevelopment

In 2023, the plan was refined to six towers from 37 to 49 storeys, later revised to five towers from 40 to 55 storeys. It also increased the public park allocation from 1,940m² to 3,273m², combined with 2,105m² of City-owned lands. Now, a consultation request has been submitted for a Site Plan Approval application for Phase 1.

Previous plan for Markham Suites Redevelopment, designed by Scott Shields Architects for Hilton Markham Suites Hotel Limited

This resubmission proposes a modified slab-style, 42-storey residential tower at the northeast corner of Clegg Road and Courtyard Lane, rising from a tiered podium stepping from 5 to 10 storeys, replacing what had been proposed park area and a point tower in previous plans: this portion of the public parkland has been moved north to the Highway 7 frontage.

Looking southeast to Markham Suites Redevelopment Phase 1, designed by Giannone Petricone Associates for Hilton Markham Suites Hotel Limited

Private roads frame Phase One's north and east sides, The tower would introduce 620 residential units, with a total Gross Floor Area of 38,486m². The proposal includes 952m² of indoor amenities and a sprawling 10,248m² of outdoor amenity space. One level of underground parking would provide 443 spaces, including 432 for residents and 11 accessible uses. While the bicycle parking allocation for residents is yet to be finalized, the by-law requires 312 spaces, and 62 spaces are currently designated for non-residential use.

Site plan, designed by Giannone Petricone Associates for Hilton Markham Suites Hotel Limited

Located within the Cedarland Major Transit Station Area as this Viva station is only 200m to the east, part of York Region Transit (YRT) bus services along the Highway 7 corridor. Buses connect with Unionville GO station on the Stouffville GO Line, located approximately 1.5km east, or a 15 to 20-minute walk away, with direct service to Downtown Toronto.

This area of Markham continues to see rapid high-rise growth. To the west, proposals include three towers from 17 to 20 storeys at Circa Drive & Highway 7 East, a 37-storey tower at 100-110 Clegg Road, and three towers ranging from 40 to 53 storeys at 3555 Highway 7 East. To the east, Orchid Condos proposes 42- and 45-storey towers, while Phase 6 of the Uptown Markham community features dual 30-storey towers, 36- and 38-storey towers, and Phase 5 under construction with towers rising 40 and 45 storeys. Further northeast, Phase 1 of the Markham Town Square Redevelopment envisions five towers from 25 to 48 storeys, while to the south, Panda Markham plans five towers ranging from 28 to 48 storeys. Further southeast, Downtown Markham’s Block 12 includes towers up to 41 storeys.

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Industry Updates: Mississauga Cuts Fees, GTA Sales Decline, and TRREB Adopts AI

Anthony Teles — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 14:30:39 -0500

This month’s industry updates highlight key real estate shifts in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, from government policy changes to emerging technologies and market trends. Mississauga has introduced major development charge reductions to spur construction, while Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) is rolling out an AI-driven assistant to improve member services. Market conditions remain challenging, with GTA home sales seeing a sharp decline despite an increase in listings, providing buyers with more negotiating power. Meanwhile, rapid population growth in Toronto and Peel continues to put pressure on housing supply. Industry events this month focus on sustainability, regulatory updates, and networking, bringing together leading professionals to discuss the future of development.

Toronto skyline, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor prtk.g

Announcements

Ontario Awards Construction Contract for East Harbour Transit Hub
The Ontario government has awarded a construction contract for the East Harbour Transit Hub, a major infrastructure project set to serve 100,000 daily riders upon completion. The new hub will connect GO Transit and the Ontario Line 3, easing congestion at Union station and improving transit access for Riverdale, Riverside, and Leslieville. The project plans for 4,000 new residential units in the surrounding community.

Mississauga Cuts Development Charges to Spur Housing Construction
Mississauga City Council has approved reductions in development charges to encourage housing construction amid the ongoing affordability crisis. Under the new incentives, development charges for residential projects will be cut by 50%, with a full exemption for three-bedroom units in purpose-built rentals, provided permits are secured before November 13, 2026. The motion also urges the Region of Peel to match these incentives and implement a new multi-residential tax subclass, potentially reducing property taxes by up to 35% for new rental projects.

TRREB Introduces AI-Powered Virtual Assistant for 24/7 Member Support
TRREB is launching Ardi, an AI-driven virtual assistant designed to provide 24/7 support to its 68,000+ members. Ardi will answer questions about Association rules, member benefits, and industry-related topics across multiple platforms in 25 languages, for improved accessibility and response times. TRREB plans to roll out Ardi to members this summer following an internal testing phase to boost its knowledge base.

High GTA Listing Inventory Gives Buyers More Choice and Leverage
Home sales in the Greater Toronto Area declined by 27% year-over-year in February, as high mortgage rates and economic uncertainty kept many buyers on the sidelines. Despite a 5% increase in new listings, affordability challenges and concerns over Canada’s trade relationship with the U.S. have contributed to buyer hesitation. TRREB expects sales to recover later this year if borrowing costs ease and economic confidence improves.

Toronto and Peel Lead Rapid Population Growth in 2024
The Greater Golden Horseshoe experienced another year of record population growth, with Toronto adding 143,000 residents and Peel Region increasing by 70,000 in the 12 months leading up to July, 2024. Statistics Canada data attributes immigration, both permanent and temporary, as the primary driver, further straining the region’s already limited housing supply. Researchers suggest that recent immigration policy changes could slow population growth in the coming years, potentially easing housing pressures.

Events & Awards

LEEP Window Technology Forum to Focus on Energy Efficiency and Code Compliance
The upcoming LEEP Window Technology Forum, scheduled for March 20 in Vaughan, will provide builders with key insights into evolving window installation standards. Hosted exclusively for Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) and Ontario Home Builders' Association (OHBA) members, the half-day workshop will cover energy performance and airtightness requirements for residential projects. Experts will also highlight technologies and best practices to ensure compliance with changing building codes.

yBILD Trivia Night Brings Industry Professionals Together
BILD members are invited to an evening of networking and friendly competition at the yBILD Trivia Night on March 20 at Goodman’s Pub & Kitchen. The event offers a relaxed setting for industry professionals to connect over trivia rounds, light refreshments, and a complimentary drink. Attendees will form teams to test their pop culture knowledge while building relationships in a casual, social atmosphere.

Enbridge Webinar to Explore ENERGY STAR® Standards for Builders
Enbridge is hosting a free virtual workshop on March 26 to help builders navigate evolving energy codes and high-performance building standards. The session will cover ENERGY STAR® for New Homes certification, financial incentives, and strategies for promoting sustainable home features to buyers. Attendees will also gain insights into market trends, including green mortgage opportunities and municipal sustainability initiatives.

LandPRO Conference Returns with Expert Insights on Land and Development
The LandPRO Conference 2025, set for April 2 in Vaughan and via live webcast, will bring together over 1,000 professionals from Ontario’s land, real estate, and development sectors. Attendees will learn from industry leaders on trends, regulatory changes, and best practices shaping the future of development. The event offers a full day of expert-led discussions and networking opportunities, with both in-person and virtual participation options available.

PM Springfest to Showcase Innovations in Property Management
PM Springfest returns on April 24 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, offering a half-day of industry insights for property managers and building owners. The event will feature expert-led sessions on decarbonization, new technologies, and regulatory updates, alongside an expo highlighting innovations in smart building tech, energy management, and construction services. Attendees can network with industry peers and cap off the day with a VIP post-event cruise.

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Everyone from construction workers to brokers to real estate executives are encouraged to share news with us to be featured in our weekly updates. If you have some industry-related news to share, let us know by contacting us here.

Inside Central Park as Construction Progresses on Amenities and Suites

Anthony Teles — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 11:48:24 -0500

Construction continues at The Residences at Central Park, a masterplanned community designed by Core Architects for Amexon Development Corporation at Leslie Street and Sheppard Avenue East. The 12-acre development will include five residential towers, ranging from 12 to 31 storeys, arranged around a three-acre central park with retail, office space, and pedestrian-friendly pathways connecting various public spaces. Last month, UrbanToronto provided an update on the exterior construction. Now, with interior work well underway, structural elements are shaping the first phase’s 31-storey high-rise.

31-storey tower for Phase 1, designed by Core Architects for Amexon

The image below captures the expansive double-height lobby, running east-west along the north side of the ground floor, opposite the retail and amenity spaces. Steel shoring posts brace the concrete slab above, supporting the tall ceiling height of the main entry area during the curing process, while scaffolding stands to the left. The reinforced concrete walls on the right delineate the separation between the lobby, the retail at the southwest corner, and interior amenities, which will include a library, pet spa, and fitness centre. Overhead, drop-down slab sections segment the ceiling, and construction materials, including formwork panels and rebar, are staged near the opening at the far end, where glazing will later enclose the space.

Residential lobby, image courtesy of Amexon Development Corporation

This second-floor vantage point offers a view toward the ravine and wraparound balcony, where a thick, concrete column anchors the building’s corner. Shoring posts are also in use here to stabilize the concrete while it continues to cure. In the background, a bright orange excavator is visible at grade, and to the left, steel scaffolding extends upward, where future installation of facade elements such as leaf-imprinted balcony guards will be installed.

Corner balcony and shoring posts on the second floor, image courtesy of Amexon Development Corporation

From the fifth floor, we look southeast. The residential floors of the tower, which include a mix of one- and two-bedroom suites, plus three-bedroom suites at the northwest and southeast corners, are beginning to take shape, with temporary fencing securing the building’s perimeter. A cylindrical concrete column at the corner provides structural support for the slab above. Suites in this section will feature deep balconies and floor-to-ceiling glazing, framing unobstructed views of the East Don Parklands.

Looking southeast on the fifth floor, image courtesy of Amexon Development Corporation

From the seventh-floor slab, the highest level reached so far, the expansive southeastern view extends across the cityscape, with North York General Hospital int he middleground. Wooden safety railing lines the perimeter, securing the slab edges as work continues. A concrete power trowel sits on the slab, used to smooth and finish the surface. Around it, bundled construction materials, including weatherproof tarps and rebar sections, are staged for upcoming work.

Staging on the seventhfloor, image courtesy of Amexon Development Corporation

Looking northwestward over the adjacent low-rise residential neighbourhood, pipes and rebar for ongoing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) installations punctuate the foreground. Rebar projections indicate the locations of future structural columns and walls.

Conduit pipes and rebar projecting from the seventh floor, image courtesy of Amexon Development Corporation

Rising 105.9m, the tower is part of a community set to deliver 1,478 suites.

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News Roundup for March 7, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0500

A look at why Toronto’s luxury condo market is still going strong despite the condo slump; major blaze in downtown Bowmanville leaves historic building badly damaged; weekend events in the city including celebrating International Women’s Day; and other news.

Toronto’s luxury condo market is still going strong despite the condo slump. Here’s why (The Star)

Major blaze in downtown Bowmanville leaves historic building badly damaged (CBC)

Weekend need-to-know: Celebrate International Women’s Day (CityNews)

Toronto food banks brace for the worst in the face of looming tariff threat (CBC)

The TTC’s interim CEO wants to stick around — and an announcement on whether he will could be coming soon (The Star)

Pocket of Warmth

Craig White — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

With only a couple more floors to go before the mechanical penthouse is under construction, The Whitfield is taking its place on Toronto's skyline in this image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor kotsy from January, 2025. The 39-storey Menkes Developments and Core Development Group condo tower stands out for it design by Giannone Petricone Associates, its warm red exteriors contrasting with the predominantly cool neutral tones of the majority of buildings piercing Toronto's skies, and harkening back to the days when Toronto's red brick, bay-and-gable style Victorian homes were the mark of the city.

The Whitfield has been the subject of our Daily Photo every day this week, something we don't normally do, but there does seem to be a flourishing love affair on the go among our contribitors for this sexy new addition to Toronto, one that has inspired lots of terrific photography.

Looking southwest to the Downtown Toronto skyline from where The Whitfield is under construction in the St Lawrence Neighbourhood, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor kotsy

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Goode Condos Topping Off as No. 31 Gains Five Storeys in Distillery District

Anthony Teles — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 17:12:28 -0500

Rising side by side on Parliament Street immediately southwest of Toronto’s Distillery District, No. 31 Condos is rising above the ground while The Goode Condos approaches topping off. Designed by architects—Alliance for Graywood Developments, Goode Condos is now at its mechanical penthouse with 33 residential floors formed. Adjacent next door to the south, No. 31 Condos is designed by Arquitectonica with Arcadis as Architect of Record for Lanterra Developments and Westdale Properties, where a Committee of Adjustment approval in February, 2025 has added 5 more floors and 39 residential units, bringing the building's eventual height to 46 storeys and nearly 154 metres. UrbanToronto’s last update on both developments was in November, 2024.

Looking southwest to The Goode Condos, designed by architects—Alliance for Graywood Developments

Seen below in the marketing rendering when it was to be 41 storeys tall, the extra five storeys at No. 31 will be added to the uppermost volume of the tower, which follows a tiered massing concept with four volumes that decrease in floor-plate size as the building rises. The approved Minor Variance also slightly reduces amenity space and parking requirements in exchange for a $300,000 contribution toward local parkland, public realm improvements, and community services. These funds could go to upgrades for David Crombie Park, the Parliament Street underpass, or other nearby public amenities.

Looking northeast to the 41-storey design for No. 31 Condos, designed by Arquitectonica for Lanterra Developments and Westdale Properties, with Arcadis Architect of Record

In the northwest-facing view below from February, 2025, the podium section of No. 31 (left) has been formed, with its double-height ground floor and part of its second floor protected by a thick crash wall to the south, ready to handle any eventuality from the adjacent rail corridor. Behind it, Goode Condos is nearing its final height, with glazing and cladding largely installed on the tower, save for the top few floors. Where we see orange tarp up top, the final residential floors are being formed. To the right, Goode Condos' podium is sealed in against the weather, brick exterior in place between window panels. At ground level, curtainwall has been installed along Goode Condos’ east elevation, wrapping around the north side, enclosing future retail and lobby spaces.

Looking northwest to the east elevations of the podiums of No 31 Condos (left) and Goode Condos (right), image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor ProjectEnd

In the northeast-facing view below, formwork is still in place for the uppermost floor of the podium, while stepped back slightly are walls and columns for the first floors of the next section. A red concrete boom pump stands just to the right of the crane. At grade, blue weatherproofing wraps around concrete columns along Parliament Street, while to the left, construction materials are staged beside both podiums. Tucked in behind somewhat, Goode Condos’ west elevation is advancing, with the south elevation featuring newly installed glass balcony guards on two floors above the podium.

Looking northeast to formwork for the sixth and seventh floors of Goode Condos, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor ProjectEnd

In the north-facing view below, Goode Condos stands with 32 floors formed and active formwork on the 33rd, where wooden forms are in place for the next concrete pour. Glazing and cladding are largely installed up to the 27th floor, with glass balcony guards now in place on three floors. In the foreground, No. 31’s podium is all but completely formed, with a concrete parapet wall at the east end where an outdoor terrace will sit atop the five-storey base.

Looking north to glazing and cladding installation progress for the tower of No 31 Condos, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor jackattack

In the southeast-facing view below from this month, Goode Condos stands nearly topped off, with ongoing work on its mechanical penthouse. At grade, white tarp covers sections of the ground floor, awaiting the installation of curtain wall panels and cladding. To the right, just the west end of No. 31 can be seen, with formwork and decking is in place for the sixth floor, while additional formwork rises above for the first elements of the seventh floor.

Looking southeast to ongoing construction of the mechanical penthouse section for No 31 Condos, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Upon completion, The Goode Condos will stand 111.4m with 557 residential units, while No. 31 Condos will now rise to 153.63m with 467 units.

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Multi-Tower Proposal on Yonge in Richmond Hill Goes Taller, Bigger

Anthony Teles — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 12:33:45 -0500

A multi-phased development has been proposed for 11014 through 11076 Yonge Street in Richmond Hill’s Elgin Mills area, seeking permission for a mix of townhouses, two community centres, and high-rise towers up to 49 storeys. Designed by Tregebov Cogan Architects for Armour Heights Developments (operating as Yonge MCD Inc.), the proposal calls for five residential towers close to the Oak Ridges Moraine that forms the highpoint of the Greater Toronto Area.

An aerial view looking southwest to 11014-11076 Yonge Street, designed by Tregebov Cogan Architecture for Armour Heights Developments

The 46,415m² site spans Brookside Road to Naughton Drive and is currently vacant. A tributary of the Rouge River runs through the eastern portion, bordered by a stream corridor and wetland areas, while a wooded area to the north is owned by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). Surrounding the site is a mix of residential and commercial uses.

An aerial view of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Richmond Hill

In 2016, applications for an Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, and Draft Plan of Subdivision were submitted. Phase 1, approved by the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) in 2020, allowed for a 6-storey mid-rise building, stacked townhouses, and a linear park. In 2021, a decision permitted two residential towers of 21 and 37 storeys in Phase 2, located at the site's southeast corner. A 2024 amendment refined the approved subdivision plan, establishing development blocks and an internal public road network.

Previous plan by Armour Heights Developments

Now, the latest Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications envision five residential towers ranging from 29 to 49 storeys, eight 3-storey townhouse blocks, and two community centres. The development would introduce 1,874 residential units, including a mix of condos, market-rate rentals, and townhouses. The design’s Gross Floor Area is 174,675m², including 172,561m² for residential uses and 2,114m² for the community spaces. The design’s Floor Space Index in the 46,415m² property is 6.80 times lot coverage, and the layout includes a linear park and new internal roads.

Conceptual site plan, designed by Tregebov Cogan Architecture for Armour Heights Developments

Planned in four phases, Phase 1 would introduce 33 three-bedroom townhouses, while Phase 2 would bring two high-rise towers of 38 and 49 storeys, with a combined 794 condo units. Phase 3 would deliver three rental towers of 29, 31, and 33 storeys, along with two storeys of community centre spaces spanning 2,114m². Phase 4 would complete the project with 36 stacked townhouses. The towers would sit atop podiums ranging from 1 to 6 storeys.

Indoor amenities would span 5,771m², while outdoor amenities would cover 6,446m². A linear park along the site's eastern edge would connect Yonge Street, Brookside Road, and the internal street network.

Ground floor plan for Phase 2, designed by Tregebov Cogan Architecture for Armour Heights Developments

The towers would include 16 elevators across Phases 2 and 3, with seven in the condo towers (approximately one per 113 units) and nine in the rental towers (one per 112 units). Parking is planned above-grade, at-grade, and in three underground levels, with 1,212 spaces for residents and 136 for visitors. Bicycle parking provisions include 1,082 long-term and 212 short-term spaces for visitors.

Ground floor plan for Phase 3, designed by Tregebov Cogan Architecture for Armour Heights Developments

York Region Transit (YRT) bus stops at Brookside Road and Canyon Hill Avenue provide connections along Yonge Street. The VIVA Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, running between Highway 7 and 19th Avenue/Gamble Road, includes a station at Yonge and Bernard Avenue, designating the area as a Major Transit Station Area (MTSA). The Bernard Terminal, southeast of the site, offers additional regional bus connections. Looking ahead, the Yonge Line 1 North Subway Extension, planned to extend beyond Highway 7, shorten the connection time to Toronto.

The surrounding area is experiencing an uptick in high-rise development. To the north, Brookside Yonge Condos and 11172 Yonge Street are proposed at 22 storeys each. To the south, Evelyn Condos at Rise & Rose would introduce 23- and 31-storey towers, while further south at Elgin Mills Road West, The Elgin is planned as a 19- and 25-storey tower development. A masterplanned community at 41 & 81 Elgin Mills calls for towers reaching up to 50 storeys.

An aerial view looking northeast to 11014-11076 Yonge Street, designed by Tregebov Cogan Architecture for Armour Heights Developments

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News Roundup for March 6, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0500

Toronto mayor creates team to draft city plan to combat potential U.S. tariffs; Centennial College to relocate programs at Story Arts Centre to Progress Campus in Scarborough; what a national study found on which renters landlords discriminate against most in Canada; and other news.

Toronto mayor creates team to draft city plan to combat potential U.S. tariffs (CBC)

Centennial College to relocate programs at Story Arts Centre to Progress Campus in Scarborough (CityNews)

Which renters do landlords discriminate against most in Canada? What a national study found (The Star)

Fact-checking tariffs and examining the fallout (CityNews)

The Datum Scene

Craig White — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

It's typical in Toronto these days that when a new building rises beside an existing one, the new one will be much taller, and the difference in the scale between the neighbours could be jarring if left unaddressed. To bring some harmony, urban designers like to see one or more elements from the existing building carried over to the new neighbour, creating a sense that the buildings belong together. More often than not, it's a datum line present in the existing building — a strong line such as a cornice or a rooftop around which its design is ordered — that is copied in the new one. Sometimes, similar materials are used.

There is maybe no new building in Toronto that reaches out quite so conspicuously as The Whitfield does to its neighbour, 184 Front East. The former is a new Menkes condo tower, the latter is an 8-storey Alleid REIT office building, built in 1990 and designed to mimic the early 1900s industrial warehouse typology of the area, but in a Post-Modern style. In this image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Rascacielo, the Whitfield's podium, mostly stepped back from the street to create a wider public realm, reaches out to 184 Front East in a flowing embrace, matching its materiality while carrying over its rooftop datum line.

Looking up to The Whitfield, under construction beside 184 Front East, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Rascacielo

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Towers Proposed North of St Clair Station in Deer Park

Anthony Teles — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:19:21 -0500

A two-tower residential proposal would bring high-density infill to Toronto's Deer Park neighbourhood, bringing the intensification that's happening at St Clair and Davisville stations closer together. Designed by architects—Alliance for Gairloch Developments and Fairway Developments, the proposal would introduce 38- and 43-storey towers within walking distance of both stations, and falling within the St Clair Major Transit Station Area where the Province encourages greater density.

Looking northeast to 59-81 Lawton Boulevard, designed by architects—Alliance for Gairloch Developments and Fairway Developments

The development site spans 59 through 81 Lawton Boulevard on the east side of the street, between Heath Street West and Duggan Avenue. The mid-block assembly currently consists of 12 low-rise residential buildings, including 11 single-detached homes and one duplex, which collectively house 13 dwelling units. Flanked by mid- and high-rise apartment buildings to the north and south, and low-rise residential homes and multiplexes to the west, the site is bordered by the south end of the TTC Davisville subway yard beside Yonge Street to the east.

An aerial view looking south to the current site, image from submission to City of Toronto

WND Associates Ltd has submitted Zoning By-law Amendment and Site Plan Control applications to the City of Toronto on behalf of the developers. The proposal consists of north (129.8m) and south (142.6m) towers above one-storey podiums, with a combined total of 706 residential units. While the towers are designed as independent structures, a wind screen feature would visually connect them at the front and rear. The project would deliver a Gross Floor Area of 46,219m², entirely residential. On a site of 3,533m², the floor space index would be 13.98 times lots coverage.

Looking east to the podiums, designed by architects—Alliance for Gairloch Developments and Fairway Developments

Each tower would be served by three elevators, with approximately one elevator for every 102 units in the north tower and 133 in the south. High-speed motors would be required, particularly in the taller tower, for adequate service. Residents would have access to 1,413m² of indoor amenities found on the ground and second floors of both towers, the third and 38th floors of the north tower, and the 43rd floor of the south tower. Outdoor amenities totalling 1,031m² would be directly connected to indoor areas on levels 2, 38, and 43.

Site plan, designed by architects—Alliance for Gairloch Developments and Fairway Developments

The development would also provide 353m² of public parkland dedication, equivalent to 10% of the site area, positioned at the southern end of the property and likely allowing access to Yonge Street. Below grade, four levels of underground parking would provide 252 parking spaces for residents and 14 for visitors. Bicycle parking provisions comprise 636 long-term and 152 short-term spaces.

Ground floor plan, designed by architects—Alliance for Gairloch Developments and Fairway Developments

St Clair station is located about 550m to the south, while Davisville station about 625m to the north with a less-direct path. The 512 St Clair streetcar is also nearby, while the nearest TTC bus stop on Yonge Street is 250m from the site. Cycling infrastructure includes dedicated bike lanes along Yonge Street, although they are threatened by the provincial government.

Looking southeast to the current site, image from submission to City of Toronto

The areas close to St Clair and Davisville subway stations continue to see significant high-rise development. To the south, One Delisle is rising at 44 storeys, alongside major proposals such as The Clair at 34 storeys and St Clair Place, with four towers ranging from 13 to 44 storeys. Additional high-rise projects include The Hill Condos and The Notable at 50 storeys each, 1 and 45 St Clair West at 49 and 51 storeys, and Yonge & Rosehill at 52 storeys. To the north, major proposals include 22 and 45 Balliol at 40 storeys each, as well as 1900 Yonge Street, which would introduce four towers reaching up to 45 storeys. Further intensification is planned with 50 Merton at 46 storeys and 1910 Yonge at 48 and 53 storeys, while the 37-storey 30 Merton is currently under construction.

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Parking Garage Demolition Passes Halfway Mark for Q Tower

Anthony Teles — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 15:42:19 -0500

UrbanToronto regularly publishes construction updates, but today, we've hit the REV button for a deconstruction update as demolition progresses on a parking garage at 200 Queens Quay West, eventually to make way for Q Tower. The 59-storey condominium designed by Wallman Architects for Lifetime Developments and Diamond Corp, will rise within walking distance from Union station. The site’s seven-storey above-ground parking garage has been a fixture of Toronto’s Harbourfront area since the mid-1980s.

Looking southeast to Q Tower, designed by Wallman Architects for Lifetime Developments and Diamond Corp

Originally built to support the area's early redevelopment into a tourist destination, the structure provided over 1,200 parking spaces adjacent to the Gardiner Expressway’s Yonge-York-Bay off-ramp. Over the decades, as high-rise development filled in the waterfront and the off-ramp was shortened, the aging garage became a prime redevelopment site. In 2019, Canada Lands Company sold the 1.24-acre property to the developers. A demolition permit was issued in December, 2024, with demolition having commenced at the start of this year.

Looking east in January, 2025, demolition is in full swing at the garage's west end. With Lower Simcoe Street closed to traffic, a mobile hydraulic crane has its boom extended to support a spreader beam assembly, aiding in the controlled removal of wide concrete beams. On the seventh floor and rooftop, workers manage the rig, preparing the next section for removal. Along the north elevation to the left, an orange boom lift raises more crew members to the sixth floor. To the southwest, the fifth through seventh floor slabs have been removed, adjacent to an elevator/stairwell core.

Demolition underway at the west end of the site, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor kotsy

A sweeping drone image looking southeast in February, 2025 captures demolition now more than one-third of the way completed, advancing one vertical run at a time, with the top three concrete slab sections removed from the next run. West of the current work, the westernmost elevator/stairwell core is now isolated as the structure has been dismantled around it. Closest to us at ground level, two excavators are dusted with a light layer of snow, like the rooftop.

An aerial view looking southeast to the parking garage structure, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor kotsy

Amidst the heavy February snowfall, demolition presses on, seen here looking northeast. A yellow excavator stands in the foreground, while beyond it, the north side stairwell remains intact, its green and orange bands marking former floor levels.

Looking northeast to a yellow excavator and a north-end concrete support, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Ciarlandini

Looking southeast this month, demolition has progressed past the halfway mark. In the foreground, a black and red high-reach excavator, equipped with a pulverizer attachment, is being used to break apart and pull down remaining concrete elements, ensuring precise deconstruction in this dense urban environment. Behind it, a long red dump truck is positioned to haul away debris, while behind both a white mobile crane with a telescopic boom stands ready. The south end of the site features a third, now freestanding stairwell core.

Heavy machinery and dump truck at the west end of the site with demolition now over halfway completed, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor kotsy

Looking northwards to the garage's mid-block entrance, the CN Tower now rises from behind the freestanding stairwell. In the left foreground is the mobile crane with its hook and rigging system. To the right is the south elevation of the garage, with rust stains where cladding was once attached now highlighting its age. Sparks fly from active torch-cutting on the upper floors, where crews are at work.

Looking north from Lower Simcoe Street to the south elevation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor kotsy

Q Tower will eventually rise on this site to a height of 197.4m, and house 1,024 residential units.

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Proposal Adds Five Towers to Northern Tip of Downtown Markham

Anthony Teles — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 12:26:03 -0500

Just north of Toronto's city limits in Markham, its transformation from suburban to urban continues with a major proposal in the growing Downtown Markham area. The Remington Group, operating as Ruland Properties Inc., has submitted a Zoning By-law Amendment for Block 12, introducing five towers ranging from 15 to 41 storeys. Designed by BDP Quadrangle, the site is in the Andre De Grasse Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Protected Major Transit Station Area (PMTSA).

Looking southwest to Downtown Markham Block 12, designed by BDP Quadrangle for The Remington Group

Downtown Markham is a 243-acre planned community with a mix of residential, commercial, office, and cultural spaces. The community currently consists of 11 built blocks and continues to expand with phased developments. The area is also connected to Markham District Energy (MDE), supporting sustainability initiatives such as the Wastewater Energy Transfer (WET) Project. Block 12 is positioned at the northern gateway of the community.

Precinct plan for the Downtown Markham masterplanned community, designed by BDP Quadrangle for The Remington Group

Located at the northwest corner of Birchmount Road and Verdale Crossing, the site is currently vacant. To the north, the Rouge Valley and Rouge River system create a natural buffer, while to the west, south, and east, existing mixed-use developments include high-rise residential towers, townhomes, and commercial spaces, and lands owned by the developer planned for future development.

An aerial view of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Markham

The proposal envisions five residential towers rising from 15 to 41 storeys (54.15m to 129.75m). Spanning a total Gross Floor Area of 159,377m², the development would deliver 2,139 residential units, supported by 2,848m² of retail and commercial space along Birchmount Road and Verdale Crossing. With a site area of 25,974m², the resulting Floor Space Index would be 6.14 times lot coverage.

Site plan, designed by BDP Quadrangle for The Remington Group

The massing groups the towers into three connected buildings. Phase 1 would introduce a 28-storey tower with a 9-storey podium at the southeast corner. Phase 2 follows with 15-storey and 32-storey towers, both sharing a 9-storey podium in the southwest corner. Phase 3 would complete the development with another 32-storey tower and the tallest tower of 41 storeys at the north end. It would feature 7- and 9-storey podiums, as well as a central park linking Block 12 to the Rouge Valley Greenway System. A dedicated “Innovation Space” would be incorporated into Phase 3, fronting both Birchmount Road and the internal park system, supporting future community programming.

An aerial view looking north to Downtown Markham Block 12, designed by BDP Quadrangle for The Remington Group

With 20 residential elevators in total, ratios would range from approximately one elevator every 100 to 113 units per building. The development would provide 3,822m² of indoor and 3,417m² outdoor amenity areas, distributed across podium rooftops and shared common areas.

Ground floor plan, designed by BDP Quadrangle for The Remington Group

Parking provisions would include two underground levels and a six-level above-grade garage in Phase 2’s podium. Suites surround the exterior of the podium to hide the parking from view. The development would provide 1,484 spaces for residents, 310 for visitors, and 21 shared visitor/retail spots. Bicycle parking provisions include 1,766 long-term and 524 short-term spaces.

The site is a 10-minute walk east of Unionville GO station, providing access to Downtown Toronto via the Stouffville Line. The Viva Transitway running nearby along Simcoe Promenade to the south complements the Viva Purple and Purple A BRT routes along Highway 7 to the north. York Region Transit (YRT) routes link the site to Finch station to the west and to Markham’s older communities to the east, while TTC bus routes connect to Warden station on Danforth Line 2. For cyclists, there are dedicated bike lanes on Birchmount Road, Rouge Valley Drive West, and Verclaire Gate.

An aerial view looking southeast to the Downtown Markham masterplanned community, designed by BDP Quadrangle for The Remington Group

Block 12 is close to other high-rise development. To the south, Downtown Markham’s Gallery Square and Gallery Towers are rising with towers ranging 8 to 30 storeys, and Signature Condos 2 is proposed at 35 storeys. Across the ravine to the north is the Uptown Markham area, with many projects recently completed and underway. Westward, Uptown Markham proposes two blocks with towers up to 30 and 38 storeys, while Phase 5 is under construction with 40- and 45-storey towers, and Phase 1 of the Markham Town Square Redevelopment calls for five towers from 25 to 48 storeys. Eastward, Kingdom Markham is a four phase community proposed with towers of 8, 9, 25, and 37 storeys. Further east, UnionCity, now under construction, consists of three towers from 36 to 44 storeys, with UnionCity South planning six towers between 35 and 49 storeys.

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News Roundup for March 5, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0500

Trade war will raise the price of new homes on both sides of the border, say Canada and U.S. homebuilders; Greater Toronto home sales down as mortgage costs, trade war weigh on buyers; Chinatown-Kensington 'zombie' house deteriorating from neglect, neighbours say; and other news.

Trade war will raise the price of new homes on both sides of the border, say Canada and U.S. homebuilders (The Star)

Greater Toronto home sales down as mortgage costs, trade war weigh on buyers: board (CityNews)

Chinatown-Kensington 'zombie' house deteriorating from neglect, neighbours say (CP24)

Trade war a ‘bucket of cold water’ on Toronto-area real estate market as February sales nosedive (The Star)

Are Toronto homeowners technically millionaires? Here’s what experts have to say (CP24)

Seventies, Twenties

Craig White — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

Parts of Toronto's St Lawrence Neighbourhood are the city's oldest, and have existed since 1793 when the Town of York was founded. Much of what the area is known for now, however, are its urban renewal housing projects from the 1970s, initiated by then mayor David Crombie and built over the next two decades within design principles set down by George Baird. In the image below by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Mihairokov, one of the predominantly brown brick aluminum 1970s projects forms the foreground at the bottom of the photo, showing its age. After a couple of decades of little happening in the area, in the 2020s the area's again been seeing significant growth, now being dominated by high-rises, of which The Whitfield has been getting the most attention lately, rising centre-stage at rear of this photo, and bringing warm colour to the city again after years of neutral palettes.

image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Mihairokov

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One Crane Remains Above Cherry House at Canary Landing

Anthony Teles — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 17:43:31 -0500

Cherry House at Canary Landing's buildings have topped off at Mill and Cherry streets in Toronto’s Distillery District, with only one last crane still standing over the complex's east building. Developed by Dream Unlimited, Kilmer Group, and Tricon Residential, the project consists of three buildings, one of 12 storeys and two of 13 designed by COBE Architects and architects—Alliance. The site, spanning over 15,000m², replaces one of the last large surface parking lots in the area and is one of several parts of the larger Canary Landing community, some other currently projects of which also includes Maple House, Birch House, and the Indigenous Hub. Construction on Cherry House began in 2021.

Looking southeast to Cherry House at Canary Landing, designed by ArchitectsAlliance and COBE Architects for Dream Unlimited, Kilmer Group & Tricon Residential

Looking northwest from Cherry and Mill streets, this image from May, 2024 captures brick-patterned precast that had been installed up to the 9th floor for the south building. Above the masonry, the 10th floor steps back and is then cantilevered over by three more concrete slabs for the uppermost levels including the mechanical penthouse. Windows have been installed as high as the 8th floor, while at grade, the curtain wall glazing wraps around the double-height retail podium. To the right of the windows, bronze-toned metal panels are partially installed.

Cladding progress on the tower at Cherry and Mill streets, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

An aerial view facing south in July, 2024, highlights the blue tower crane at the east end of the site. Construction hoists are visible along the north elevation, rising only six floors at that time, while the east building then reached twelve floors. On the south tower to the left, cladding has begun on the mechanical penthouse. Along Cherry Street and Front Street East, the precast brick-patterned cladding has been installed up to the fourth floor.

An aerial view looking south, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor skycandy

Looking at the project in October, 2024, a pedestrian mews between the east and west buildings affords a partial look into the courtyard within the Front Street, Cherry Street, and Trinity Street block that the east and west buildings share. Brick-patterned framing anchors the lower levels, while above, powder-coated aluminum panels with varying corrugations have been installed most of the way up the buildings. On either side of the opening, cantilevers extend over the mews, emphasizing the stepped massing of the buildings.

Looking into the courtyard between east and west buildings at Cherry House, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor xmyth_

An aerial view facing northeast in January, 2025 gives us a view of the west elevation’s stepped massing, highest along Front Street. The cladding is all but complete, with the corrugated aluminum panels and glazing mostly installed across the buildings. Along Trinity Street, the brick pattern-framed lower floors bring texture to the buildings' street presence. Hidden to the right, the south elevation lines a newly created, as yet unnamed road.

An aerial view looking northeast to the Trinity Street frontage, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor xmyth_ 2

Recently captured from a nearby tower, the topped-off south building's upper box is now fully clad. To the right, cladding has progressed up to the eighth floor on the adjacent buildings, showcasing the stepped massing as its heights gradually increases toward the 13-storey corner at Cherry and Front streets. Below, some lower floors remain partially enclosed with orange tarp, while the brick-patterned framing hugs the ground on completed sections.

An aerial view looking northwest to the towers along Cherry Street, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Finally, looking northeast this month, the west-end tower crane was captured in the process of being dismantled. A mobile crane is seen ready to lower to the ground the top sections of the crane above its slewing unit.

The north end tower crane being dismantled, image courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor PL1

Once complete, the Cherry House complex will contain 855 units, in buildings standing as high as 50.32m tall.

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BMO Field's World Cup Expansion: Temporary Fix or Lasting Legacy?

Joon Choi — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:08:17 -0500

The City of Toronto, in partnership with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), has unveiled more detailed plans to expand BMO Field for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the city will host six matches, including Canada’s first-ever men’s World Cup match on home soil. The stadium, home to Toronto FC and the Argonauts, will see its capacity temporarily expanded to 45,000 seats and upgraded with improved fan amenities, broadcasting facilities, and player areas.

Looking southwest to the temporarily expanded BMO Field for FIFA 2026 World Cup, City of Toronto, Maple Lead Sports + Entertainment

A Stadium Fit for the World Cup—At Least Temporarily

Originally opened in 2007 as a soccer-specific venue, BMO Field underwent a major expansion in 2015, raising its capacity to 30,000. Now, with FIFA requiring a minimum of 45,000 seats, the stadium will add 17,500 temporary seats, which will be dismantled post-tournament. MLSE COO Nick Eaves confirmed that while a permanent expansion was considered, it was ultimately ruled out due to financial constraints, saying "The investment in the stadium would have been significantly higher had those 17,000 extra seats been made permanent. We looked at it carefully… that would have been everybody's wish, but the final decision was to not do that based on the prohibitive cost associated with it."

While officials highlight the long-term benefits, critics argue that removing the additional seats after the World Cup represents a missed opportunity. With soccer’s growing popularity in Canada and Toronto FC’s expanding fan base, they believe a larger, permanent stadium would better serve the city’s long-term needs.

South Side Stands at BMO Field for FIFA 2026 World Cup, City of Toronto, Maple Lead Sports + Entertainment

Beyond Seating: Permanent Stadium Enhancements

While the temporary seating has garnered most of the attention, the stadium is also receiving a series of permanent enhancements to meet FIFA’s elite standards. A key improvement is the complete replacement of the grass pitch, ensuring world-class playing conditions. MLSE COO Nick Eaves confirmed it will be “completely replaced to meet FIFA’s highest standards” and “lightly used before the tournament to ensure optimal quality.”

North Side Stands at BMO Field for FIFA 2026 World Cup, City of Toronto, Maple Lead Sports + Entertainment

Additional enhancements include four new LED video boards, upgraded lighting, and a revamped sound system to elevate the broadcast experience. Fans will benefit from expanded concourses and AI-powered self-serve concessions, using Amazon’s “Just Walk Out” technology to reduce wait times, as well as upgraded high-speed Wi-Fi for seamless connectivity.

Meanwhile, renovated locker rooms, staircases, and an elevator will ensure top-tier accommodations for competing teams and players. A new 1,000-person rooftop patio, set to remain after the tournament, adds another lasting feature. These upgrades aim to modernize BMO Field, creating a more efficient, immersive match-day experience beyond 2026.

Patio and North End Suites post-FIFA 2026 World Cup, City of Toronto, Maple Lead Sports + Entertainment

Transportation & Accessibility Challenges

Despite all these proposed upgrades, a major concern is how Toronto will manage the influx of fans and increased traffic in the Exhibition Place area. With over 45,000 people expected per match, transit accessibility and congestion have become key issues. Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik (Spadina-Fort York) emphasized the City’s proactive approach, stating, “We are working on a very comprehensive transportation and mobility plan, including the TTC, Metrolinx, bike-share, and ride-share options to ensure fans can get to and from the stadium efficiently.”

Officials are focused on developing a strategy that not only accommodates the surge in visitors but also ensures minimal disruption for local residents. The success of Toronto as a host city will ultimately depend not just on the enhancements made to BMO Field but also on how effectively the surrounding infrastructure supports the tournament.

A Necessary Investment or Overspending?

Toronto’s hosting budget has surged to $380 million, exceeding the $300 million estimate from 2022. The funding breakdown includes $123 million from the City of Toronto, over $100 million in federal support, and $23 million from MLSE. Officials justify the spending with a projected $940 million in economic benefits, including $520 million in GDP growth, $340 million in labour income, 6,600 jobs, and $25 million in tax revenue. The event is expected to draw over 300,000 visitors, boosting tourism.

However, critics question whether the investment is forward-thinking. Sharon Bollenbach, Executive Director of the FIFA World Cup 26 Toronto Secretariat, noted that while one-third of the budget funds permanent enhancements, another third is for temporary infrastructure that will be dismantled post-tournament. This raises concerns about the long-term impact on Toronto’s sports culture.

While city officials remain optimistic about the tournament’s economic impact, the debate over its long-term value continues. The true measure of success will depend not only on financial returns but also on whether these investments translate into lasting benefits for Toronto’s sporting landscape and infrastructure.

FIFA World Cup 26 Toronto Secretariat Executive Director Sharon Bollenbach, MLSE COO Nick Eaves, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, MP Adam van Koeverden, Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik, image by Craig White

Will This Expansion Leave a Legacy?

Mayor Olivia Chow sees the tournament as an opportunity to showcase Toronto’s diversity, boost local businesses, and inspire young athletes: “Every World Cup, the city comes alive—Little Italy, Portugal Town, every neighbourhood packed with fans. This isn’t just about soccer; it’s about bringing people together.”

Beyond BMO Field, city leaders are investing in transit access, youth sports programs, and expanded recreational spaces, with a focus on increasing opportunities for women and girls in soccer. Officials also aim to strengthen local procurement policies, ensuring small businesses benefit from the economic surge.

FIFA 2026 may very well be Toronto’s chance to solidify its reputation as a global sports hub. But will these investments pay off long-term, or is Toronto thinking too small?

UrbanToronto will continue to follow progress on the transformation of the stadium, but in the meantime, you can learn more about it from our Database file, linked below. If you'd like, you can join in on the conversation in the associated Project Forum thread or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.

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Resubmission Increases Residential, Reduces Office Space Near Corktown Station

Anthony Teles — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:18:01 -0500

Intensification can be seen across Toronto’s Old Town neighbourhood, much of it driven by the now under-construction Ontario Line 3. A short walk from its future Corktown station, Dream Unlimited has resubmitted plans for 49 Ontario Street, refining a proposal for a trio of mixed-use buildings designed by architects—Alliance. The latest application increases density while reducing office space, with heights ranging from 9 to 49 storeys, following the acquisition of additional properties along Berkeley Street.

Looking northeast to 49 Ontario Street, designed by architects—Alliance for Dream Unlimited

Occupying most of the north side of Adelaide Street between Ontario and Berkeley streets, the site currently hosts a seven-storey office building from the 1990s, a surface parking lot, a two-storey commercial building at 82 Berkeley Street, and a row of four Victorian-era houses at 72 through 78 Berkeley Street. The surrounding Old Town neighbourhood includes heritage low-rise structures alongside emerging high-rises. To the south, the King-Parliament area in particular will see new high-rises and commercial growth with the arrival of the subway.

Looking northwest to the current site from Adelaide Street, image retrieved from Google Maps

The initial Zoning By-law Amendment application in 2019 proposed three mixed-use towers from 12 to 36 storeys. Later, 72 through 82 Berkeley Street were added to the site. A November, 2022 resubmission included the current storey counts. The latest Site Plan Approval application, however, focuses solely on the west and east residential towers, while the north building (designated for office use) remains under the approved Zoning By-law. According to ERA Architects’ assessment for the Victorian row houses, the main facades would be retained and rear portions demolished.

Initial design by architects—Alliance for Dream Unlimited

Since securing rezoning in May, 2023, Dream Unlimited has been seeking a development partner. The project gained momentum after Mayor Chow’s recent policy to waive development charges on purpose-built rentals.

Previous design by architects—Alliance for Dream Unlimited

The resubmission refines the three-building development with 9-, 44-, and 49-storey towers, ranging 43.75m to 156m, up from 152.4m. The latest revisions expand the unit count from 1,004 to 1,226, with 246 of the suites to be for affordable rentals (20%).

The total Gross Floor Area now measures 79,554m², down from 80,678m² previously, with 72,638m² for residential, 6,152m² for office (decreased significantly from 15,206m²), and 764m² for retail (down from 1,099m²). With the development site covering 6,953m², the Floor Space Index would be 11.44 times lot coverage. There would be 2,563m² of indoor and 1,955m² of outdoor amenities.

Site plan, designed by architects—Alliance for Dream Unlimited

The podium height has been lowered to two storeys for street-level integration, and a new north-south pedestrian mews replaces a formerly planned private passage between the east and west towers. The layout concentrates commercial uses within the 9-storey north building. A public park adjacent to it at the northeast corner has been expanded to 582m², up from 564m² in the previous proposal.

Five elevators in the west tower and four in the east would result in approximately one for every 136 units, requiring high-speed motors for efficient service. Below grade, a two-level underground garage would provide 176 parking spaces, down from 241 in the previous submission, with 104 residential, 59 visitor, and 9 retail spaces. Bicycle parking has increased to 1,266 spaces, up from 1,242, with 145 short-term and 1,121 long-term spots.

Ground floor plan, designed by architects—Alliance for Dream Unlimited

The site is located within walking distance of two stations to the under-construction Ontario Line 3. The closest is Corktown, 270m to the southeast, a four-minute walk, while Moss Park is 450m to the northwest, a six-minute walk. Ontario Line 3 is targeted for opening in 2031.

An aerial view of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Toronto

The area is rapidly transforming. To the south, EQ Bank Tower (23 storeys) and Bauhaus Condos (32 storeys), The Whitfield (39 storeys), and Grainger (42 and 45 storeys) are under construction, with proposals including King East Centre (28 and 39 storeys), 296 King East (46 storeys), and Allure (43 storeys). Southeast, the Corktown Transit-Oriented Community’s North and South Sites call for multiple towers up to 46 storeys. To the northwest, ROQ City’s 24- and 33-storey towers are under construction, alongside proposals for 245 and 225 Queen East at 25 and 37 storeys, and East Richmond (43 storeys) to the north. To the east, proposals include 550 Adelaide East (29 storeys), Berkeley House (36 storeys), 517 Richmond East (45 storeys), 494 Richmond East (45 storeys), and 134 Parliament (46 storeys).

Looking northwest to the podiums, designed by architects—Alliance for Dream Unlimited

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News Roundup for March 4, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0500

Toronto's BMO field getting $146M facelift ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup; flooding possible in GTA as heavy rain, mild temperatures arrive; Toronto-run child-care centres, March Break rec programs will close if city workers strike; and other news.

Toronto's BMO field getting $146M facelift ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup (CBC)

Flooding possible in GTA as heavy rain, mild temperatures arrive (CTV News)

Toronto-run child-care centres, March Break rec programs will close if city workers strike: city manager (CP24)

This luxury condo across from the CN Tower has ‘the things you expect from a piece of art’ (The Star)

U.S. tariffs, Canadian counter tariffs now in effect as deadline passes (CBC)

Double Warming

Craig White — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

March certainly came in like a lion a few days ago, if lions are blustery and bitterly cold, but it's already feeling like more of a lamb with the thermometer registering above zero again. To coincide with the rise in temperature, this image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor mburrrrr captures The Whitfield, under construction on Downtown Toronto's East Side, selectively basking in the glow of late day sun, and magnifying the sun's effects with its own warmly coloured exterior, being applied ever higher on this new residential tower.

The Whitfield under construction and basking in late day sun, January 2025, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor mburrrrr

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Proposal Beside Fairview Mall Adds Third Tower on Medical Office Site

Anthony Teles — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 17:25:13 -0500

Northwest of Fairview Mall and the planned infill redevelopment of its parking lots, Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT has resubmitted plans for a three-tower, mixed-use community at 5 Fairview Mall Drive. Designed by WZMH Architects, the revision adds height to towers previously proposed at 35 and 39 storeys, while adding a third 47-storey tower. The development would rise steps from Don Mills station on Sheppard Line 4 in Toronto’s Don Valley Village area.

Looking southeast to 5 Fairview Mall Drive, designed by WZMH Architects for Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT

Spanning 9,762m² at the southeast corner of Fairview Mall Drive and Don Mills Road, 5 Fairview Mall Drive currently hosts a four-storey medical office building with 8,000m² of Gross Floor Area (GFA), surrounded by surface parking lots. Fairview Mall spans 80,000m² to the southeast, with mid-rise residential buildings found on bordering properties to the north.

Currently functioning simply as a regional shopping centre, the Fairview Mall Redevelopment proposal which is immediately adjacent to the 5 Fairview Mall Drive property is set to reshape its lands with 14 new buildings ranging from 22 to 52 storeys, mostly on what is now surface parking for the mall. Its Phase 1 includes three towers between 38 and 52 storeys. The owners of many regional shopping centre sites in the Greater Golden Horseshoe are considering similar intensifications of their site. UrbanToronto Forum members have drawn a particular comparison to the Scarborough Town Centre Redevelopment to this one, owing to its proximity about 7km to the east, where over 40 towers up to 65 storeys, and over 15,550 residential units are proposed on its larger site. There are 6,163 new residential units proposed on the Fairview Mall site.

Looking southeast from Fairview Mall Drive to the current site, image retrieved from Google Maps

The initial proposal for 5 Fairview Mall Drive in August, 2022 entailed two residential towers of 31 and 36 storeys, connected by a five-storey non-residential podium, retaining the medical office building. Following feedback and a changing development scene, Bousfields has now resubmitted Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, and Site Plan Approval applications to the City of Toronto on behalf of the developer.

Previous design by WZMH Architects for Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT

The new proposal seeks approval for three residential towers of 35, 39, and 47 storeys, ranging from 119.25m to 155.55m high, increased from the previous top height of 134.4m. The tallest tower replaces the office building, while introducing a new public street along the east property boundary. The total GFA now stands at 92,696m², a sharp increase from the previous proposal’s 50,203m², with 82,202m² dedicated to residential space (up from 38,771m² and 9,259m² to office space (down from 10,883m²). The Floor Space Index (FSI) has risen from 5.96 to 8.42.

Site plan, designed by WZMH Architects for Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT

The three towers would cluster around a new internal courtyard. Office space has been consolidated within the eight-storey podium beneath the 39-storey tower, for continued medical office use. Retail, scaled down from 549m² to 328m², would animate the ground level. There would be 2,755m² of indoor amenities in the podiums, and 2,590m² of outdoor amenities including the courtyard plus terraces, more than doubling the previous 2,428m² total.

Podiums for 39-storey (left) and 35-storey (right) towers, designed by WZMH Architects for Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT

The revised layout also introduces a 938m² POP (Privately-Owned Publicly-accessible Space) at the corner of Fairview Mall Drive and Don Mills Road. Development would proceed in three phases: the 39-storey tower and part of the POPS first, followed by demolition for the 47-storey tower and remaining POPS, then the 35-storey tower.

Residential units have more than doubled in number, from 598 to 1,295. The 47-storey tower would have five elevators, the 39-storey tower four (plus three for office use), and the 35-storey tower four, or approximately one for every 108, 90, and 100 units, respectively. A three-level underground garage would provide 388 vehicle parking spaces, a reduction from 544 spaces. This includes 228 office, 142 residential, 15 visitor, and 3 car share spaces. Bicycle parking has been increased from 449 to 1,011 spaces, with 881 long-term and 96 short-term spots, while retaining 28 non-residential spaces.

Ground floor plan, designed by WZMH Architects for Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT

Don Mills station is a three-minute walk south, with TTC bus routes along Sheppard Avenue East and Don Mills Road serving, as well as York Region Transit (YRT) services from tje north. Looking ahead, Metrolinx is studying potential extensions of Sheppard Line 4 to then Scarborough Town Centre area in the east (interchanging with the Danforth Line 2 Scarborough Subway Extension), and to Sheppard West station on University Line 1 in the west.

An aerial view of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Toronto

There are other development proposals in the area, mostly as infill on existing Tower-in-the-Park style sites. To the north, 20 Godstone Road is proposed at 12 storeys. To the southwest, high-rise proposals include 25 Leith Road (25 storeys) and 1650 Sheppard Avenue East (31 storeys), while at 2600 Don Mills Road, a four-tower development is proposed with heights ranging from 42 to 47 storeys. Nearby, 2500 Don Mills Road is planned to feature two towers rising 43 and 52 storeys.

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Eight Cranes A-Lifting at Dundas and Kipling

Anthony Teles — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 16:27:28 -0500

Etobicoke’s Six Points area, once dominated by a multi-flyover interchange and an expansive, windswept parking lot for a suburban cinema, now boasts eight cranes towering where Etobicoke's future core will knit the existing mini-skyline around Bloor/Dundas/Kipling with the one around Bloor/Islington/Dundas. The first two of several development blocks on this site to go under construction now count four cranes each; at the Etobicoke Civic Centre, and at 5207 Dundas West. UrbanToronto last provided an update on the Civic Centre’s ground breaking in April, 2024, and on 5207 Dundas West in August, 2024.

Looking north to 5207 Dundas West, designed by Henriquez Partners Architects for Tricon Residential, Kilmer Group & CreateTO

Designed by Henriquez Partners Architects for Tricon Residential in partnership with Kilmer Group and CreateTO, 5207 Dundas West, above, is the first project to go under construction as part of the City of Toronto’s Housing Now initiative, with 26- and 30-storey towers connected via mid-rise podium wings. The Etobicoke Civic Centre, below, designed by Henning Larsen Architects and Adamson Associates Architects for CreateTO, will feature four towers up to 16 storeys housing municipal offices, a library, community facilities, and public services.

Looking northwest to the Etobicoke Civic Centre, designed by Henning Larsen and Adamson Associates Architects for CreateTO

As seen in the east-facing drone image below in December, 2024, Etobicoke Civic Centre is situated to the north (left), with 5207 Dundas West to the south (right).

An aerial view looking east to the sites for Etobicoke Civic Centre (left) and 5207 Dundas West (right), image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Tim MacDonald

In this top-down drone image looking south, cranes are positioned near each corner of the 5207 Dundas West site. The 30-storey tower will rise at the northeastern corner alongside Dundas Street West (bottom left), while the 26-storey tower will take shape at the northwest corner, at the corner with Kipling Avenue (bottom right). The courtyard, with landscaping designed by CCxA, will be in the centre.

A top-down view of the four tower cranes at 5207 Dundas West, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Tim MacDonald

Captured in January, 2025, this drone image looking north across Dundas Street to the Etobicoke Civic Centre site shows the first crane positioned at its northeast corner. To the left are preparations for the base of the second crane, while south of both, excavators are moving earth for the future locations of two additional cranes. Its towers will rise at the north end of the site, closer to Bloor Street West.

, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Tim MacDonald

Looking south from the north side of Bloor, four cranes now rise behind the black hoarding at the Civic Centre site, with two white cranes positioned at the north end, closest to Bloor, while the masts of the 5207 Dundas West cranes rise further south, partly obscured by the trees.

The four tower cranes for Etobicoke Civic Centre, looking south from Bloor Street West, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor cogito ergo

Peering southwesterly from behind the hoarding for 5207 Dundas West, we see concrete walls and columns for the podium between the 30- and 26-storey towers.

Looking southwest to construction on the podium for the 26-storey tower at 5207 Dundas West, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Lookinh northwards from Kipling Avenue’s railway overpass, a TTC subway train moves along its corridor, while beyond it, the podium levels of 5207 Dundas West are rising with concrete walls and formwork below its four cranes, and of course, in the distance to the north is the Civic Centre’s quartet of cranes.

All eight tower cranes, looking northeast from Kipling Avenue, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor HousingNowTO

With heights ranging from 32m to 98.5m, the developments will introduce 725 new rental units alongside new civic and institutional spaces for Toronto's western district.

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Supertall Towers and Transit Expansion Made Headlines in February, 2025

Anthony Teles — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:35:07 -0500

February brought some of Toronto’s biggest snowstorms in years, with bitter cold gripping the city, but construction and transit expansion showed no signs of slowing down. Towering skyscrapers and UrbanToronto stalwarts like The One and Pinnacle One Yonge continued their climbs, while new proposals across the GTA pushed density higher, especially around current and future transit stations. Transit remained a major focus, with discussions around the Ontario Line 3, Eglinton Line 5 Crosstown LRT, and more. Despite the deep freeze and snowy onslaught, the city’s skyline and transit network kept pushing forward!

Let's review our top stories, database files, and threads for February, 2025.

Our Top Ten Most Read News Stories

Starting at 12, GWL Realty Advisors has announced College Park 100, an initiative marking the site's upcoming centennial in 2030 with a focus on its past, present, and future. A newly launched website and a series of public events would engage Torontonians in discussions about the site's evolution, with a design team led by Hariri Pontarini Architects, ERA Architects, and Public Work.

12. GWL Realty Announces College Park 100 Ahead of Site’s Centennial

Looking southwest to College Park, image courtesy of GWL Realty Advisors

February's news stories highlighted high-rise proposals and major transit-linked developments across the Greater Golden Horseshoe. Liberty Village could have a new tallest tower, while a six-tower project beside Georgetown GO would bring the densest development yet to Halton Hills. Park Lawn GO is moving forward as part of the Christie's cookies factory site redevelopment, and a 45-storey tower proposed on Yonge near the future Steeles subway station. Meanwhile, The One nears its supertall height and SkyTower at Pinnacle One Yonge has reached 60 storeys. Topping the list, after nearly a decade of planning, construction is finally set to begin on Kitchener’s Central Transit Hub, bringing a long-awaited multimodal gateway to Waterloo Region.

10. 55-Storey Proposal Could Be Liberty Village's Tallest Yet

9. Six-Tower Development Proposed Near Georgetown GO

8. 39-Storey Tower Proposed Near Laird LRT Station in Leaside

7. 28-Storey Tower Proposed Along Kitchener’s Growing ION LRT Corridor

6. First Capital and Pemberton Move Forward on Park Lawn GO and Christie's Site Redevelopment

5. The One Nears Supertall Height, Reaches Fourth Mechanical Section

4. 45-Storey Tower Proposed on Yonge Near Future Steeles Station

3. Cranes Come Down at Tridel's The Dupont as Cladding Progresses

2. SkyTower at Pinnacle One Yonge Climbs to 60 Storeys, Nearing 200m

1. Construction Imminent For New Kitchener Central Transit Hub

Our Top Ten Most Searched Database Files

Coming in at 13, construction is ramping up at 5207 Dundas Street West, where four tower cranes are now in place, bringing the total to seven on both sides of the street, including three at the Etobicoke Civic Centre. The 5207 Dundas project is part of the City’s Housing Now initiative, transforming underused municipal land into a mixed-use community with a strong affordable housing component. Stay tuned to UrbanToronto for an update on both sites later today!

13. 5207 Dundas West

The most searched projects saw a mix of construction milestones and new proposals. The One and Pinnacle One Yonge continued to dominate the top spots as both towers inch closer to supertall status. 191 Bay debuted at 3, drawing attention for its potential to join Toronto’s tallest buildings. Pinnacle Lakeside Phase 1 also made its first appearance, with the latest construction photography shared in the Forum. Meanwhile, KING Toronto and Concord Sky slipped slightly but remained high in the rankings.

10. 88 Queen

9. Pinnacle Lakeside (Phase 1)

8. Concord Canada House

7. CIBC SQUARE

6. Forma

5. KING Toronto

4. Concord Sky

3. 191 Bay

2. Pinnacle One Yonge

1. The One

An aerial view looking southeast to The One, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor hawc

Our Top Ten Busiest Threads

Transit projects remained a hot topic on the forums, including three major expansions at spots 12, 13, and 14, with the Finch West Line 6 LRT, as well as the Eglinton Line 5 Crosstown West and Sheppard Line 4 Subway extension, Hurontario-Main Line 10 LRT. The transit trend continued in the top ten...

14. Finch West Line 6 LRT

13. Eglinton Line 5 Crosstown West Extension

12. Sheppard Line 4 Subway Extension

...including the Hurontario-Main Line 10 LRT advancing in Mississauga and Brampton at 9, the Alto high-speed rail planned for a Toronto-Quebec City corridor at #5, under-construction Ontario Line 3 at 4, and long-anticipated Eglinton Line 5 Crosstown LRT in the runner-up spot at 2. Tall towers and construction projects continued to draw attention, with Pinnacle One Yonge at 3 and The One again claiming the top spot.

10. KING Toronto

9. Hurontario-Main Line 10 LRT

8. Concord Sky

7. Forma

6. CIBC SQUARE

5. Alto - High Speed Rail (Toronto-Quebec City)

4. Ontario Line 3

3. Pinnacle One Yonge

2. Eglinton Line 5 Crosstown LRT

1. The One

An aerial view looking west to Ontario Line construction along the Lake Shore East corridor, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Kotsy

We will be back at the beginning of April for a recap of March's top news stories, Database files, and Forum threads!

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News Roundup for March 3, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0500

The Toronto condo market is in dire straits as investors jump ship, but developers have found a silver lining; a look at everything you want to know about Canada-U.S. tariffs; City of Toronto closes “temporary surge” warming centres as extreme cold ceases; and other news.

The Toronto condo market is in dire straits as investors jump ship. But developers have found a silver lining (The Star)

Everything you want to know about the Canada-U.S. tariffs (CBC)

City of Toronto closes ‘temporary surge’ warming centres as extreme cold eases (CTV News)

This Toronto condo is going for less than $20,000 — well, a fraction of it at least (The Star)

U.S. tariffs on Canada still coming Tuesday, but it may not be 25% (Global News)

Torontology

Craig White — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0500

This view across King Street over its low-rise buildings (mostly Victorians) to the recent high rises of Downtown Toronto's east side includes The Whitfield, a new Menkes condo tower rising into the sky over the Old Town of York area. The area is the built environment equivalent of a palimpsest, so it screams Toronto for its mix of new above old... and that TTC streetcar absolutely seals the deal in this image by the very aptly named UrbanToronto Forum contributor torontologist.

Looking up over King Street's low-rise Victorians towards today's giants, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor torontologist

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The James at Scrivener Square Topping Off as Cladding Progresses

Anthony Teles — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 16:10:48 -0500

Topping off at 23 storeys, The James at Scrivener Square now towers over Toronto’s Summerhill neighbourhood. On the east side of Yonge Street right across from the flagship Summerhill LCBO at 5 Scrivener Square, the COBE Architects-designed rental development is a collaboration between Tricon Residential and Diamond Corp, with Graziani + Corazza Architects as Architect of Record.

Looking southeast to The James at Scrivener Square, designed by COBE Architects and Graziani + Corazza Architects for Tricon Residential and Diamond Corp

UrbanToronto last provided an update in September, 2024, when the tower was rising and cladding and glazing were underway.

Looking southeast in early December, 2024, the lower levels of the podium on the right are wrapped in white tarp, enclosing ongoing bricklaying. A yellow telehandler is stationed in front, while a concrete bucket awaits use to the left. White precast concrete cladding has been installed across the first nine floors. Scaffolding in the recess to the left provides access to exterior work.

White tarp and scaffolding along the podium's north elevation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor artemperederii

The building is positioned just south of the historic clock tower of the North Toronto Rail Station, in which the Summerhill LCBO is now housed. Looking south along Yonge Street in late December, 2024, work progresses on the mechanical penthouse. The lower mechanical section has been formed, with a concrete boom pump at the 21st floor, west of the tower crane, where the west elevation steps back toward the mechanical penthouse. The construction hoist is attached to the east elevation, with blue panelling on the upper floors.

Looking south from Yonge Street to the tower crane and concrete boom pump as construction continues on the mechanical section, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Lachlan Holmes

In January, 2025, the tarps were removed and the podium’s northwest corner revealed its completed hand-laid brick exterior which features a stepped layering detail to the left of each punched window. The glazing is segmented by aluminum mullions, while metal louvres capping them.

Hand-laid brick masonry and curtain wall glazing at the northwest corner of the podium, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor artemperederii

On the west elevation, precast cladding has reaches as high as the tenth floor and continues to climb. Below the cantilever, the centre section is sheathed in white weatherproofing up to the sixth floor. Glazing and spandrel panels cover the upper podium levels to the left.

Cladding and glazing installation progress on the west elevation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Rascacielo

This month, white tarp now encloses the lower levels to the east for further hand-laying of bricks in this area. Glazing is installed up to the sixth floor, along with portions of the seventh floor at the centre. Precast cladding continues to climb: the upper levels will incorporate a shadowbox curtain wall system with aluminum framing and Juliette glass guardrails.

Tarp covering the lower levels of the north elevation as cladding installation progress, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Rascacielo

The James at Scrivener Square will stand at 88.21m and will deliver 127 luxury rental units upon completion.

* * *

Cielo Condos Ground Level Construction Continues Amid Winter Weather

Anthony Teles — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 14:42:07 -0500

Cielo Condos is beginning its ascent above grade in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood, undeterred by the heavy snowfall and winter conditions that swept through the city in February. Designed by KPMB Architects for Collecdev-Markee Developments, with ERA Architects overseeing heritage preservation, the 34-storey tower is now rising behind the Bloor Street United Church’s Gothic Revival stone walls, alongside the 19th-century George C. Pidgeon House to the north. Last month, UrbanToronto reported that Cielo Condos had emerged above grade. Now, concrete forming for the complex and unique first floor have gotten underway.

Looking north to Cielo Condos, designed by KPMB Architects for Collecdev-Markee Developments

Looking north from Bloor Street West at the start of February, 2025, extensive scaffolding is seen erected at the south end of the site. Further back to the left, newly cast concrete walls are seen at grade. Formwork is in place to the right rear, while at the far right, we see the retained stone walls of the church.

Looking north to scaffolding west of the church walls, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Northern Light

Later in the month, we look northeast across towards construction activity towards the north end, where a robust scaffold system supports the preserved walls of the Pidgeon House, partially wrapped in white protective weatherproofing. In the foreground, bundled rebar and post-tensioning cables project from the ground floor slab. Below grade, a compact red excavator can be made out, stationed to the left of projecting rebar, ready for a first floor wall to be extended from it. Stacked materials, including wrapped pallets of construction supplies, are staged atop the completed slab.

Looking northeast to staged materials and ongoing construction by the Pidgeon House, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor enter username

Pivoting to a southeast view, white weatherproofing protects the preserved walls of the church’s east and south sides. In the foreground, a large stockpile of rebar is staged on the ground floor slab. Concrete walls and formwork are seen to the left of the crane, which will house residential lobby and community spaces while connecting to the George C. Pidgeon House via the second level. To the right, scaffolding stands beside the red concrete boom pump, with preparations underway for the first pour of the second-floor slab.

Looking southeast to formwork, concrete walls, and scaffolding behind the church walls, , image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor enter username

Looking northeast across Bloor Street West, construction continues despite recent heavy snowfall blanketing the site. The emerging structure is now distinctly visible above grade, with protective plastic sheeting behind the hoarding on the left to shield work. Above, fencing lines the second floor as the forming work continues.

Construction emerging into view behind the hoarding along Bloor Street West, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor enter username

Plans for the podium call for extensive curtain wall glazing to the left of the heritage sandstone walls of the Bloor Street United Church. Above, the tower will incorporate a mix of window wall, spandrel panels, and prefinished metal cladding with aluminum-framed punched windows. The east elevation on the right will feature a blend of brick and curtain wall glazing, complemented by a terracotta batten screen at grade.

Cielo Condos is rising to a height of 130.35m, with 349 residential units.

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41- and 44-Storey Towers Proposed Along Finch West LRT in North York

Anthony Teles — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 12:20:20 -0500

A two-tower, mixed-use development rising 41 and 44 storeys has been proposed at 2450 Finch Avenue West in North York's Humber Summit neighbourhood, introducing residential, retail, office, and community uses. Designed by KIRKOR Architects and Planners for Shelborne Capital, the site is roughly halfway between Islington Avenue and Weston Road, just west of the Milvan-Rumike stop on the soon-to-open Finch West Line 6 LRT.

An aerial view looking northeast to 2450 Finch Avenue West, designed by Kirkor for Shelborne Capital

The 12,676m² site is on the north side of Finch Avenue West, west of Milvan Drive and east of Duncanwoods Park. Currently, it hosts a single-storey commercial plaza fronted by a surface parking lot. Employment lands to the north and east form part of the Emery Village area, one of Toronto’s largest employment hubs. To the south and west are found residential neighbourhoods, punctuated by strip plazas and other commercial uses along Finch Avenue.

Looking northwest to the current site, image retrieved from Google Maps

Bordering on the Duncanwoods Greenbelt Park, the west end of the site falls within a Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) regulated area, and as part of the proposal, 895m² of land along the edge would be conveyed to the TRCA, forming a buffer to safeguard the ravine slope and expand the City’s Natural Heritage System through renaturalization efforts.

Bousfields has submitted an Official Plan Amendment application to the City of Toronto on behalf of the developer to redesignate the site from General Employment Areas to Mixed Use Areas. The towers would rise to heights of 150.45m and 162.45m, atop four- and six-storey podiums. The development would introduce 998 residential units across both towers, with a total Gross Floor Area of 73,226m², including 58,581m² for residential uses and 14,645m² for commercial and community spaces. This results in a Floor Space Index of 6.22 times lot coverage.

Shelborne Capital has informed UrbanToronto that the tenure of the residential units is still under consideration, with the developer determining whether they will be offered as rental or condominium homes.

Site plan, designed by Kirkor for Shelborne Capital

The ground and second floors of the taller tower would feature a grocery store and retail, while levels three and four would house office and commercial spaces. The shorter building would incorporate a 1,200m² child care facility with an outdoor playground and biophilic space designed to incorporate natural elements into the urban setting, adjacent to the 993m² space to be dedicated as a public park at the southwest corner.

Residents would have access to 4,139m² of indoor and 2,143m² of outdoor amenities. At street level, a 160m² outdoor piazza along Finch Avenue West would feature landscaped planters, seating, and pedestrian pathways.

Ground floor plan, designed by Kirkor for Shelborne Capital

Each tower would include four elevators, with an approximate ratio of one per 124 units in the shorter tower and 126 units in the taller tower, necessitating high-speed motors for efficient service. The majority of parking provisions would be within one level of underground garage, with 71 spaces for residents, 11 for visitors, and 118 for commercial use. The development would also provide 835 bicycle parking spaces.

While TTC bus stops are located at Finch Avenue West and Milvan Drive/Rumike Road, just 180m away or a two-minute walk, the site is 45m west of the Milvan-Rumike stop of the Finch West Line 6 LRT that would replace the bus route long before these buildings would be built. Another stop at Duncanwoods Drive is 230m to the west. The stops put the site within the Protected Major Transit Station Areas of both. Cycling infrastructure includes dedicated bike lanes along Finch Avenue as part of the LRT project.

An aerial view of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Toronto

The LRT is spurring other notable development activity in the area. To the north, 4 Milvan is proposed as a 4-storey commercial building. To the east, a cluster of high-rise projects is planned near Finch Avenue West and Weston Road, including 2370 Finch West with 8- and 15-storey towers, 2405 Finch Avenue West at 30 storeys, and 19 Toryork, with four towers ranging from 27 to 38 storeys. Further southeast, 3406-3434 Weston Road is proposed at 35 and 39 storeys. The Casa Emery Village masterplanned community includes Phase 1 completed at 28 storeys, Phase 2 at 26 and 30 storeys, and Phases 3 and 4 proposing five towers between 20 and 55 storeys.

* * *

News Roundup for February 28, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:30:00 -0500

Riding results from the 2025 Ontario election; Mayor Chow assembles her Economic Action Team to combat U.S. tariffs; a look at weekend events happening in Toronto, including WWE and the Wavelength Winter Festival; and other news.

Ontario General Election 2025 Results (Global News)

Olivia Chow assembles her Economic Action Team to combat Trump’s tariffs. Here’s who’s on it (The Star)

Weekend need-to-know: WWE body slams Toronto (CityNews)

Snow could spell a messy Friday afternoon commute in GTA, parts of southern Ontario (CBC)

Bonnie Crombie loses her own riding but commits to staying on as Liberal leader (CTV News)

Peak Winter

Craig White — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0500

Winter Stations is underway at Woodbine Beach for its annual run, on now until March 30, free to the public to wanter through. Peak, seen in the image below by UrbanToronto Forum contributor hawc, is one of six installations. Designed by the University of Waterloo School of Architecture and the Department of Architectural Engineering, as per its official website; "Emerging from "the soft and organic beachscape are angular peaks that frame perspectives and form pathways. Consisting of repeating structures of select shapes and sizes, Peak is an interactive installation that visually contrasts the existing site and offers refuge from the cold winter environment."

Peak, an installtion at Winter Stations 2025 on Woodbine Beach, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor hawc

* * *

Queen Central Nears Topping Off as Heritage Meets Modern in the Garden District

Anthony Teles — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 17:41:55 -0500

Rising at the northeast corner of Queen Street East and Mutual Street in Downtown Toronto, Queen Central is nearing its final height, with its tower soaring above the heritage facades at its base. Designed by Arcadis for Parallax Investment Corporation and Harlo Capital, the 34-storey development is addressed to 98 Queen Street East in the city's Garden District. At the time of UrbanToronto’s last update in August, 2024, the tower had reached 10 storeys.

Looking northeast to Queen Central, designed by Arcardis for Parallax Investment Corporation and Harlo Capital

Looking up to the north elevation in October, 2024, the tower’s facade installation was progressing, with window wall systems, black precast panels, mullions, and louvres now covering the first few storeys of the tower volume. Below, future walls remain wrapped in green weatherproofing, with gaps where windows will be. To the right, the heritage facade at 3 Mutual Street remains enveloped in scaffolding and green netting.

Cladding and glazing installation on the first few floors of the tower volume on the north elevation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Northern Light

By December, 2024, the scaffold and netting was gone at 3 Mutual Street, and the heritage brick masonry facade is fully visible before full restoration, showcasing arched window openings and stone sills. Above, more cladding and glazing are now installed, gradually sealing the floors beneath the cantilever at the 10th floor.

Looking east to the heritage facade at 3 Mutual Street, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor bcmc

Looking northwest this month, the east elevation features a step-back at the 11th floor, still exposed in bare concrete, with black and grey decorative panels installed on the wall below. To the left, the underside of the south elevation’s cantilever is wrapped in green weatherproofing. Higher up, the staggered and angled step-backs at the 23rd and 26th floors shape the upper tower volume, with additional setbacks planned at the 31st and 33rd floors. Structural work has reached the 29th floor, while black cladding panels and glazing have been installed up to the 14th floor.

Looking northwest to the stepped massing of the south and east elevations, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor prtk.g

Looking northeastwards across Queen, extensive orange tarp wraps the south and west elevations at ground level, while at the southeast corner the heritage facade of 98 Queen Street East remains covered in scaffolding and green tarp. The construction hoist extends up the west elevation. Along Queen and Mutual streets, sidewalks are lined with hoarding and scaffolding.

Looking northeast to Queen Central in February, 2025, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Looking east, the mix of heritage and modern design is on full display. The north elevation’s second and third floors still await cladding over green weatherproofing, though the windows now have fritted glass and spandrel panels installed, framed with black casing and trim. Up top, the north end of the 30th floor is now formed.

Looking east to the cladding and glazing installation progress above the heritage facade on Mutual Street, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor rdaner

Upon completion, Queen Central will rise 106m and house 369 units.

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Resubmission Grows to 44 Storeys Near Future Clark Subway Station

Anthony Teles — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 14:45:01 -0500

Curated Properties has resubmitted plans for a 44-storey rental tower designed by RAW in Markham’s Thornhill neighbourhood that they have dubbed Veneta on Yonge. The site is within the Clark Station Protected Major Transit Station Area, within walking distance of the future Clark Station on the Yonge Line 1 North Subway Extension – one stop north of Steeles station which was noted in an UrbanToronto story earlier this week about a proposal at 7079 Yonge Street.

Looking southwest to Veneta on Yonge, designed by RAW Design for Curated Properties

The 2,415m² site at 17-23 Morgan Avenue sits on the south side of Morgan Avenue, between Yonge Street and Dudley Avenue. Currently, it is occupied by four single-detached houses. The area surrounding the site is a mix of low-rise residential, commercial, and high-rise development activity.

An aerial view of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Markham

Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications initially submitted in November, 2022 proposed a 33-storey tower (111m), while a resubmission in 2023 increased the height to 40 storeys (133.45m). After facing City resistance, the developer appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT).

Previous 33-storey design by RAW Design for Curated Properties

Following an OLT hearing and settlement offer, the developer has submitted a Site Plan Approval application to the City of Markham, increasing the height to 44 storeys (148.15m).

Previous 40-storey design by RAW Design for Curated Properties

Along with the added height, the unit count has also been increased, from 387 in 2022, to 487 in 2023, and now 553 rental units. The latest plan features a podium ranging seven to nine storeys. The total Gross Floor Area would be 36,950m². the Floor Space Index is 14.7 times lot coverage.

Podium fronting Morgan Avenue, designed by RAW Design for Curated Properties

There would be 390m² of indoor amenities, located on the ground and second floors, complemented by 959m² of outdoor amenities, including a ground-level amenity area and rooftop terraces on the 2nd and 9th floors. The building would have four elevators, with approximately one per 138 units, requiring high-speed motors for efficient service.

Ground floor plan, designed by RAW Design for Curated Properties

Five levels of underground parking are planned with 239 total spaces, a reduction from 255 in the 2023 proposal. Of these, 230 would be allocated for residents and five for visitors, alongside four car share and pick-up/drop off spaces. The proposal increases bicycle parking to 549 spaces, up from 494, with 111 short-term and 438 long-term spaces.

Site plan, designed by RAW Design for Curated Properties

For commuters, the subway extension will bring Clark station just 250m away, a three-minute walk from the site. It will add five new stations, providing direct subway access to Downtown Toronto. York Region Transit (YRT) buses run along Yonge Street and Clark Avenue. The closest stop is 160m away, or a two-minute walk, and includes a GO Bus stop. For cyclists, the area features shared roadways along Dudley Avenue and Clark Avenue, with protected bike lanes west of Yonge Street.

Looking southwest to the current site, image retrieved from Google Maps

The proposal is part of a broader wave of high-density development transforming the Yonge Street corridor. Directly south, a proposal for 16 Glen Cameron Road includes two towers at 44 and 47 storeys. Further north, 7509-7529 Yonge Street is planned as twin 60-storey towers, while 7200 Yonge, to the southwest, envisions 15 buildings reaching up to 55 storeys. Proposals to the south include Grandview Tower at 36 storeys, Liv on Yonge with 12- and 44-storey towers, and 7079 Yonge Street at 45 storeys. Closer to the future Steeles station, 88 Steeles Avenue West calls for 41- and 58-storey towers, while 72 Steeles Avenue West would introduce four towers ranging from 38 to 60 storeys. 7028 Yonge proposes three towers from 50 to 65 storeys.

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BLVD Q Progresses in South Etobicoke as Mattamy Makes Homeownership More Accessible

Anthony Teles — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 10:35:44 -0500

After launching the Choose Your Move incentive in Halton with ClockWork 4 and The Laurels, Mattamy Homes is offering a path forward to homeownership in Toronto with this incentive now available at BLVD Q. To help buyers take their first step toward ownership, Mattamy is introducing two flexible purchasing options for the 11-storey mixed-use condominium located at 935 The Queensway in South Etobicoke.

Looking northwest to BLVD Q, designed by TACT Architecture for Mattamy Homes

The Choose Your Move program offers buyers two flexible paths to homeownership, easing the financial burden of purchasing a new home. Those looking for immediate savings can opt for a 5% discount on the purchase price. For buyers who prefer a more gradual approach, the program introduces a monthly deposit structure that replaces large lump-sum payments with predictable monthly installments, starting from $1,600 for a studio and scaling up to $3,150 for a three-bedroom suite. This option also comes with an extra 3% discount.

The structured payments continue from the point of sale until occupancy, making homeownership more accessible without the financial pressure of a hefty initial deposit. With South Etobicoke’s real estate market growing and BLVD Q offering a prime location along The Queensway, this incentive creates an opportunity to invest in a thriving community while keeping finances flexible.

Lobby interior at BLVD Q, designed by Tact Architecture for Mattamy Homes

Designed by TACT Architecture, BLVD Q will feature 210 residential suites plus retail spaces at grade. The carefully considered interiors provide stylish yet practical living spaces for city life. Expansive outdoor terraces and three floors of amenities further enhance the experience.

Co-working lounge and entertainment space at BLVD Q, designed by TACT Architecture for Mattamy Homes

Residents will have access to a fitness centre for maintaining an active lifestyle, along with two entertainment lounges designed for social gatherings and relaxation. Terraces provide inviting spaces to unwind while taking in views of the city and Lake Ontario. Inside, suites feature modern finishes with functional layouts and open-concept designs. Kitchens are crafted for both style and efficiency alongside spa-inspired bathrooms.

In-suite kitchen, image courtesy of Mattamy Homes

BLVD Q’s location on The Queensway places residents within easy reach of shopping, transit, and Toronto’s waterfront. With the Gardiner Expressway just two minutes away, it is a quick commute to Downtown Toronto or points west, while the nearby Mimico GO and Kipling stations provide access to regional and local transit options. Sherway Gardens, featuring over 200 retailers, is just minutes away, offering everything from high-end shopping to everyday essentials. Nature and recreation are also close at hand, with Lake Ontario, Humber Bay Park, and High Park providing scenic escapes close by.

Looking east across BLVD Q to Downtown Toronto, designed by TACT Architecture for Mattamy Homes

Construction at BLVD Q has been progressing steadily since its September, 2024 groundbreaking, with excavation now well underway. Despite the winter conditions, work is advancing, with excavators and a compact track loader working through snow-covered ground to continue excavation and soil removal.

Looking north to the west end of the excavation, image courtesy of Mattamy Homes

Orange tarp-lined shoring walls are reinforced with tiebacks to provide structural support as the excavation deepens, ensuring stability throughout the process.

Looking northeast to machinery onsite as construction continues, image courtesy of Mattamy Homes

With occupancy scheduled for 2027, the Choose Your Move program at BLVD Q offers an opportunity to secure a home in South Etobicoke’s thriving Queensway district.

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News Roundup for February 27, 2025

UrbanToronto Staff — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 09:30:00 -0500

Ontario Line construction forces streetcar changes, TTC to close part of Line 1 subway this weekend; Etobicoke businesses file lawsuit over Bloor Street bike lanes consultation; changes coming to 2025 Pride Toronto festival amid rising costs, sponsorship uncertainties; and other news.

Toronto traffic this weekend: TTC to close part of Line 1 subway, Ontario Line construction forces streetcar changes (The Star)

Etobicoke businesses file lawsuit over Bloor Street bike lanes consultation (CBC)

Changes coming to 2025 Pride Toronto festival amid rising costs, sponsorship uncertainties (CP24)

Re/Max Canada agrees to ‘substantial’ $7.8-million settlement in lawsuits challenging real estate commissions (The Star)

Winter weather travel advisory in effect for Toronto, GTA as snow makes impactful return (CityNews)

One quarter of Toronto’s condos now exempt from rent control following 35% hike in rents over six years (The Star)