UrbanToronto

City Council May, 2026: Settlements and Appeals

Anthony Teles — Wed, 27 May 2026 16:37:36 -0400

Alongside a round of planning and development approvals and refusals from Toronto City Council’s May, 2026 meeting, several major proposals that were sent to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) also advanced forward through settlements, appeal directions, and procedural review requests. The applications span Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, Midtown, and the Port Lands film district, together accounting for more than 8,200 proposed residential units across condominium and purpose-built rental tenures. The four formal settlements account for 2,865 residential units.

Settlements

2912-2926 Sheppard Avenue East
City Council accepted a without-prejudice settlement offer for 2912-2926 Sheppard Avenue East, advancing a revised mixed-use proposal on the north side of Sheppard, east of Victoria Park Avenue in Scarborough's L'Amoreaux area. Designed by architects—Alliance for Hazelview Investments, the settlement reduces the tower from 50 storeys to 46 storeys, lowering the height from 164.3m to 150.5m, and decreasing the unit count from 590 to 544 residential units, alongside 258m² of commercial space. Council directed the City Solicitor to attend the OLT in support of the settlement, with the final Order to be withheld pending the final Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment wording, and continued discussions around a potential in-kind contribution under the City's Community Benefits Charge By-law are decided.

Previous design for 2912-2926 Sheppard Avenue East, designed by architects—Alliance for Hazelview Investments

5051-5061 Yonge Street
A with-prejudice settlement offer was accepted for 5051-5061 Yonge Street, revising plans for a mixed-use condominium tower at the northeast corner of Yonge Street and Hillcrest Avenue in the North York City Centre area. Designed by Arcadis for Sevoy Developments and Westdale Properties, the settlement allows 42 storeys (143.9m), reduced from the 55 storeys originally proposed, while increasing the residential yield from 365 to 584 condominium units above 898m² of commercial space. The City Solicitor was directed to support the settlement at the OLT, subject to final amendment wording. Council also requested that 100% of Community Benefits Charge funds collected from the development be allocated through the 2027 Budget process to park improvements at Willowdale Park North.

5051-5061 Yonge Street, designed by Arcadis for Sevoy Developments and Westdale Properties

St Clair-Old Weston Station Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
A without-prejudice settlement was accepted for St Clair-Old Weston Station TOD, advancing a major mixed-use condominium proposal at 2-4 and 80 Union Street, beside the future St Clair-Old Weston GO station in the Stockyards District. Designed by TACT Architecture for 1057100 Ontario Ltd, the revised settlement scheme reduces the proposal from 47, 51, and 56 storeys to towers of 39, 43, and 49 storeys (130m, 141m, and 163.33m), while lowering the overall residential count from 1,713 condominium units to 1,364 units. The updated plans would also increase office space from 2,901m² to 6,009m², while retail space would decrease from 601m² to 487m². The Tribunal Order is to be withheld until the City is satisfied with the final Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments. Council also authorized the parkland dedication requirement to be satisfied through cash-in-lieu.

Previous design for the St Clair-Old Weston Station TOD, designed by TACT Architecture for 1057100 Ontario Ltd

1153 Queen Street West
On Queen Street West, Council supported a without-prejudice settlement offer for 1153 Queen Street West, a revised mixed-use rental proposal on the south side of the street between Abell and Sudbury streets in West Queen West. Designed by Turner Fleischer for QuadReal Property Group, the updated scheme would rise 27 storeys (100.5m), slightly taller than the earlier 99.35m proposal, while increasing the total residential count from 367 to 373 rental units, including 362 market-rate rental units and 11 rental replacement units. Retail space would also increase from 762.7m² to 1,023.6m². The City Solicitor and staff were authorized to attend the OLT in support of the settlement, with the Order to be withheld until the final Zoning By-law Amendment is settled and the Rental Housing Demolition application is approved, including secured tenant relocation and rental housing arrangements.

1153 Queen Street West, designed by Turner Fleischer for QuadReal Property Group

Previous Settlements

155 St Dennis Drive
For 155 St Dennis Drive, Council adopted confidential instructions related to an active OLT matter for this large Flemingdon Park redevelopment site. The proposal, designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects and Two Row Architect for Cityzen Group, Greybrook Realty Partners, and Tercot Communities, contemplates four condominium towers of 42, 49, 52, and 56 storeys (140.6m, 163.8m, 172.2m, and 184.8m), containing 2,170 units and 348m² of institutional space. The public Council decision does not disclose the terms of the instructions or any revised settlement offer, remaining confidential at the discretion of the City Solicitor. A motion to authorize discussions regarding the potential acquisition of the site by the City was defeated.

155 St Dennis Drive, designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects and Two Row Architect for Cityzen Group, Greybrook Realty Partners, and Tercot Communities

Juno Residences
Council consented to a request by Berkley Carlyle (Junction) Inc to seek a review of a July, 2024 Ontario Land Tribunal decision for Juno Residences, a mixed-use rental development at 151 and 161-181 Mulock Avenue and 6 Lloyd Avenue in Carleton Village. Designed by RAW Design for Carlyle Communities and Kensington Equities, the proposal includes 28- and 35-storey rental towers (95.1m and 117.25m), along with a five-storey office and daycare building, delivering 1,033 rental units, 881m² of retail space, 3,057m² of office space, and 1,143m² of institutional space. If the Tribunal grants the review request, Council’s direction would add a pre-condition requiring the owner to enter into an agreement with the City to construct and maintain affordable housing in accordance with the Official Plan Amendment approved by the Tribunal in February, 2026, with the agreement registered on title.

Juno Residences, designed by RAW Design for Carlyle Communities and Kensington Equities

New Appeals

65 Heward Avenue
At 65-87 Heward Avenue, Council took a different position, directing the City Solicitor and staff to oppose the current Official Plan Amendment application at the OLT while continuing discussions with the applicant. Designed by RAW Design for Kevric, operating as Heward Studio Investments Inc, the proposal would redevelop a Studio District site with buildings of 9, 12, 18, and 28 storeys, containing 806 residential units, 60,440m² of residential space, 6,693m² of retail space, and 3,150m² of industrial space, including film production studio uses. Council also authorized staff to seek conditions in the City’s interest should the Tribunal allow the appeal in whole or in part.

Conceptual plan for 65 Heward Avenue, designed by RAW Design for Kevric

2929 Bloor Street West
Council directed the City Solicitor and staff to oppose the current appeal for 2929 Bloor Street West, a mixed-use condominium proposal assembled across 2915, 2917, 2939, 2941, and 2943 Bloor Street West on The Kingsway strip, west of Royal York Road. Designed by Arcadis for Sevoy Developments, the application seeks a 29-storey (99.35m) building with 423 residential units, including 416 condominium units and seven rental replacement units, above 1,024m² of retail space. Staff were also authorized to continue discussions with the applicant to resolve outstanding issues and to request conditions in the City’s interest should the OLT allow the appeal in whole or in part.

2929 Bloor Street West, designed by Arcadis for Sevoy Developments

21 Oakmount Road
For 21-29 Oakmount Road and 26-36 Mountview Avenue, Council directed the City Solicitor and staff to oppose the current Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment appeal while discussions with the applicant continue. Designed by Teeple Architects for Elysium Investments, Hepsor SPV I Ltd, and Oikoi Living, the High Park proposal seeks two purpose-built rental towers of 39 and 41 storeys (137.6m and 144.6m), containing 873 rental units, including 861 market-rate rental units and 12 affordable rental units. Should the Tribunal allow the appeal in whole or in part, staff are authorized to request conditions of approval in the City's interest.

21 Oakmount Road, designed by Teeple Architects for Elysium Investments, Hepsor SPV I Ltd, and Oikoi Living

UrbanToronto will continue to follow progress on these developments, but in the meantime, you can learn more about them from our Database files, linked below. If you'd like, you can join in on the conversations in the associated Project Forum threads or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.

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

BAND Gallery Expanding Black Artists' Hub in Parkdale

Anthony Teles — Wed, 27 May 2026 13:30:00 -0400

Construction is advancing on the expansion and renovation of Black Artists’ Networks in Dialogue (BAND) Gallery in Toronto’s Parkdale neighbourhood, where the organization is transforming its Victorian-era home into an expanded cultural facility for Black artists and arts workers. Designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects, the three-storey project will introduce upgraded gallery and community spaces within and behind the existing building at 19 Brock Avenue. Alongside new exhibition areas, artist studios, workshops, and gathering spaces, the redevelopment is intended to support BAND’s growing role as one of Canada’s few Black-owned and Black-focused galleries dedicated to professional artistic practice.

Looking east to Band Gallery, designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects for Black Artists' Networks in Dialogue

Founded in 2010, BAND has operated from 19 Brock Avenue since 2016, using the Parkdale property as a base for exhibitions, performances, workshops, talks, and artist networking initiatives focused on Black artistic and cultural production. The organization has positioned the gallery as both an exhibition venue and a community resource, supporting emerging and established artists, curators, and cultural workers through mentorship, professional development programming, and collaborative events staged both at the gallery and across partner institutions throughout Toronto. The existing Victorian building has hosted everything from solo exhibitions and artist dialogues to backyard concerts and informal gathering spaces.

Main floor gallery, image courtesy of Black Artists' Networks in Dialogue

The redevelopment will reconfigure the building from basement to attic, introducing expanded exhibition galleries, multipurpose community areas, artist studios, workshop space, and a resource library within the compact 137m² site. The project also includes accessibility upgrades, new outdoor gathering areas, and a pollinator garden. Design concepts frame the project around the relationship between the existing Victorian structure and a contemporary addition. The renovation will also restore portions of the original brickwork while adapting the building to support museum-grade exhibition standards and expanded year-round programming.

Backyard and outdoor gathering space, image courtesy of Black Artists' Networks in Dialogue

While early pre-design and zoning work for the project was undertaken by Studio of Contemporary Architecture, the current building and interior design work has been led by Diamond Schmitt Architects. Architect Dami Akinbode has played a leading role in shaping the redevelopment, guiding the project’s architectural direction. Foré, led by Shada Morris, oversees landscape design elements tied to the outdoor gathering and garden spaces.

Upper gallery, image courtesy of Black Artists' Networks in Dialogue

Design explorations for the project include an outdoor “Fence Gallery,” expanded terrace areas, and reworked interior layouts intended to accommodate exhibitions, performances and workshops. Restored masonry elements contrast contemporary insertions, while the reorganization of the building aims to create clearer public access, improved accessibility, and flexible programming areas.

Viewed from Noble Street early in April, 2026, the rear addition at the east end of the site features yellow scaffold framing. Blue weatherproofing encloses lower sections of the addition ahead of exterior cladding installation. Black-framed glazing has already been installed at portions of the ground level.

Looking northeast from Brock Avenue at the retained Victorian structure and contemporary addition, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor AlbertC

A closer early-April view of the addition reveals the project’s contemporary exterior treatment taking shape, with cladding then installed across much of the upper volume. Curved rooflines and rounded wall transitions soften the massing of the addition. At grade, blue weatherproofing and wooden framing remained exposed along sections awaiting final cladding installation, while black-framed window systems and entrance glazing have already been fitted.

Close-up view of the contemporary addition and cladding installation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor AlbertC

BAND identifies multiple contributors helping advance the project, including the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative, the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Foundation for Black Communities, and the Michael Young Family Foundation. The gallery is also running a “Fund a Brick” campaign tied to the restoration of the building, allowing donors to sponsor bricks that will incorporate their names into the renewed exterior. BAND also credits artists, neighbours, consultants, and community supporters with helping sustain the long-running effort to expand the organization’s permanent home in Parkdale.

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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Commercial Opportunity: Partnership or Acquisition Offered for 900 The East Mall in Etobicoke

Anthony Teles — Wed, 27 May 2026 09:54:10 -0400

Colliers Private Capital Investment Group has brought a major Etobicoke redevelopment site to market, offering investors the opportunity to partner in or acquire 900 The East Mall on behalf of Harhay Developments. The 4.2-acre property comes with approvals in place for a four-tower, tall mid-rise, totalling 932 residential units and 780,515 ft², with flexibility for 50-100% managing-interest sale. The first phase is ready for NOAC by the end of the year and could be ready for construction in the first half of 2027. With Official Plan and Zoning By-law approvals secured and Site Plan Approval nearing completion, the project presents a rare, near shovel-ready opportunity within a nine-minute drive to Pearson Airport, which is undergoing a $3 billion modernization project, and a 10-minute walk to the future Martin Grove station on the Eglinton Line 5 West Extension.

900 The East Mall, designed by Core Architects for Harhay Developments

Plans call for a phased redevelopment delivering four residential towers across two stages, organized around a mix of housing and ground-level retail uses. The program totals 780,515 ft² of density, including 650,226 ft² of residential space and 11,354 ft² of commercial space, with 932 units ranging from studios to three-bedroom layouts. The development concept is structured to allow delivery as either a condominium, purpose-built rental, seniors development, and even a potential hotel development, offering flexibility to respond to market conditions. The existing site, currently occupied by five low-rise commercial buildings, continues to generate holding income during the transition toward redevelopment.

Located just south of Eglinton Avenue, the site occupies a highly accessible location at the southeast corner of the Highway 427 and 401 interchange. The property is approximately a five-minute drive from Toronto Pearson International Airport and within close reach of major retail destinations such as Sherway Gardens, while also benefiting from nearby access to Kipling and Islington stations on Bloor Line 2. Future connectivity is set to improve further with the Eglinton Line 5 West Extension, where a station at Martin Grove Road will be roughly a 10-minute walk away, or a short bus ride.

A high-angle view of the current site, image courtesy of Colliers International

From a planning standpoint, the project is well advanced, with Official Plan and Zoning By-law approvals already secured to permit high-rise, mixed-use development on the site. Site Plan Approval is in its final stages, leaving room for refinements to building design and density ahead of construction while keeping timelines intact.

The current scheme, designed by Core Architects, introduces a distinctive, wave-influenced architectural expression, though the approved framework allows for further refinement by an incoming partner. Opportunities exist to simplify the building form and improve construction efficiency, with estimates suggesting hard costs could be reduced from roughly $440 to $380 per square foot, representing potential savings in the order of $46 million.

900 The East Mall, designed by Core Architects for Harhay Developments

Market conditions in Etobicoke point to a tightening development pipeline, with fewer new projects advancing since 2023. This slowdown is occurring alongside continued population growth, setting up a supply gap that is expected to support both rental absorption and renewed condominium demand as the market stabilizes. At the same time, reduced construction activity has eased pressure on trades and materials, with cost softening creating a more favourable window for groups able to proceed.

The offering accommodates a range of deal structures, including joint venture, equity partnership, partial interest, or full acquisition. Under a purpose-built rental scenario, the project is structured as a long-term income-generating asset, with projected returns supported by phased delivery and stabilized operations. A condominium approach, by contrast, would follow a pre-sale and sellout model, requiring an initial equity contribution of roughly $30 million and offering a more concentrated return profile upon completion.

Interior, image courtesy of Colliers International

The existing property, comprising five commercial buildings across 12 parcels, generates approximately $585,273 in annual income, helping offset carrying costs during pre-construction. On the development side, eligibility for government incentives (including GST rebates and a 50% reduction in development charges for rental projects) offers meaningful cost relief.

The Etobicoke area supports long-term growth, with the district’s population estimated at 408,936 in 2024 and continuing to expand. A large share of residents fall within the 25–34 age group, a cohort expected to remain dominant through the end of the decade. Household incomes in the area average $118,276, with spending levels well above the national benchmark, supporting a strong base for retail and amenity-driven development.

Balcony view, image courtesy of Colliers International

To feature a property for sale on UrbanToronto, contact us to discuss.

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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.

News Roundup for May 27, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Wed, 27 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

HST rebate boosts sales of new single-family homes in Toronto region, but condos still lagging; group raising concerns about unhoused population ahead of FIFA World Cup; TTC writes off $6M in rental revenue from subway storefronts; and other news.

HST rebate boosts sales of new single-family homes in Toronto region, but condos still lagging (The Star)

Group raising concerns about unhoused population ahead of FIFA World Cup (CityNews)

Toronto transit agency writes off $6M in rental revenue from subway storefronts (Global News)

Noise complaints for Rogers Stadium pour in after Bruno Mars concert (CBC)

Doug Ford gave Ontario mayors more powers to build housing. Here’s what has actually happened (The Star)

City of Mississauga dropping Paramount Fine Foods Centre name (CityNews)

Home sale data for 1st month of the HST rebate window is out. Here’s what the numbers show (CBC)

REITs are on the upswing led by growth in retail, seniors homes (The Star)

Anodized

Craig White — Wed, 27 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

There's not a lot of anodized aluminum cladding on Toronto's big buildings, which you can normally identify by its metallic sheen; we tend toward powder-coated aluminum more often, which appears painted if good, or like vinyl siding if the quality is not so high. Anodized aluminum, however, shows up when developers are looking to show off a little more, and two buildings a block from each other, and across Yonge Street in Downtown Toronto, add colour to the busy corridor. The newcomer, 8 Elm is adding evermore bronze colouration as it rises higher, while Toronto Metropolitan University's Student Learning Centre's vibrant blue textured tiles clad the lower level chamfers that highlight the building's main entrance.

8 Elm rises ever higher to the northwest of the TMU (formerly Ryerson) Student Learning Centre, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor bcmc

This image comes to us courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor bcmc. Want to see your work featured as a 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’s GTHA Home Buyers Survey: Data To Make Informed Development Decisions

UrbanToronto Staff — Tue, 26 May 2026 17:00:00 -0400

GTHA HOME BUYERS SURVEY

The buyer intelligence needed to compete more effectively in the GTHA.

The GTHA Home Buyers Survey offers a clear view of today’s prospective purchaser: who is planning to buy, what type of home they are considering, where they want to buy, what financial limits they are working within, and which builder brands are strongest in the market. Based on 300 GTHA residents aged 25+ considering a home purchase in the next three years, the study is built to inform positioning, product planning, marketing and sales strategy.

WHAT THE STUDY CONTAINS

Purchase intent and timing
Housing types under consideration
Reasons for buying and purchase triggers
Preferred areas for purchase across the GTHA
Condo unit size and feature priorities
Price expectations, down payment plans
Mortgage comfort
Barriers to purchase
Awareness of 25 builder brands across the GTHA
Competitive builder metrics, including unaided recall, aided awareness, brand impressions and likely developer choice
Where prospective buyers are seeing builder advertising and promotions

HOW THE STUDY WAS DONE

The study was conducted online from March 13 to 23, 2026, among 300 residents of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area aged 25 and older who are considering buying a home in the next three years. Forty-nine per cent of respondents live in the city of Toronto, with the balance from elsewhere in the GTHA. The sample includes both current homeowners and renters and was conducted using a professionally managed panel by Dufferin Research.

PURCHASE NOW

This is the first edition of the survey which will be conducted twice a year, in the spring and in the fall.

Please contact UrbanToronto for purchase details.

CVU and UrbanToronto 2026 Walking Tours Begin Thursday

UrbanToronto Staff — Tue, 26 May 2026 16:42:16 -0400

UrbanToronto has partnered with the Council on Vertical Urbanism (CVU, formerly the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat) to launch a 2026 walking tour series examining how transit infrastructure and urban development have shaped Toronto’s growth. The Transit+Towers: Transit-Oriented Development in Toronto public tours follow Yonge Street along its corridor from Union Station to Midtown.

Organized by CVU’s Canada office, the 2026 program runs from late May through October, 2026, with evening departures scheduled across multiple dates, allowing participants to experience the city during active hours. Each tour is structured as a guided walk through key sites, pairing historical context with present-day conditions to illustrate how Toronto’s built form has evolved. The series is designed to engage both industry professionals and curious residents.

"Transit-oriented development shapes Toronto's most dynamic downtown neighbourhoods, where transit and towers grow up together," said Isaac Work of the CVU. "These tours are an opportunity to understand how the city is being built and who's shaping it. We're proud to partner with UrbanToronto to get people out into the urban classroom, the best venue for understanding how that relationship works on the ground.”

The two-hour walking tour examines how rapid transit investment has influenced growth along the Yonge Street corridor. Framed as a continuous case study stretching back to the subway’s 1954 debut, the route connects a sequence of sites where infrastructure and development have intersected in different ways over time, revealing how density, land use, and investment patterns have responded to transit access.

Great Hall interior at Union Station, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor nightstreak

Beginning at Union Station’s Great Hall and proceeding north to Yonge and Eglinton, the tour follows a five-stop route that moves through distinct phases of city-building. Early stops highlight the role of legacy infrastructure and adaptive reuse, from the regional hub at Union to the evolving block at College Park, while Bloor-Yonge introduces the complexities of large-scale redevelopment in a high-demand node. Farther north, St Clair presents a shift in built form and architectural expression, before the tour concludes at Eglinton, where new towers reflect intensification tied to Eglinton Line 5.

Across these stops, the tour explores the forces that shape transit-oriented development beyond planning policy alone. Participants are guided through examples of projects delayed or reshaped by financial pressures, sites where heritage considerations have influenced outcomes, and areas where construction activity has preceded the arrival of new transit service. With active construction sites, recently completed buildings, and emerging clusters all visible along the route, the experience offers a grounded look at how transit and development interact in practice across one of Toronto’s most important corridors.

Looking up to One Bloor West, sparkling in the sun, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor steveve

Complementing the transit-focused walk, CVU is also offering From the Ground Up: The PATH and Pedestrian Toronto, a tour centred on the city’s extensive underground network and its relationship to the public realm above. Beginning at Toronto City Hall, the route examines how roughly 30km of interconnected concourses, tunnels, and indoor spaces support daily movement through the downtown core, while also shaping how streets, plazas, and building entrances are designed at grade.

Tours for Transit+Towers are scheduled across six dates from late May through October, with all departures from Union Station set for 5:30 PM:

Thursday, May 28 — coming soon, reserve the last few tickets now!
Tuesday, June 30
Thursday, July 23
Tuesday, August 18
Thursday, September 17
Tuesday, October 20

Tickets can be purchased here. Participants are responsible for their own TTC fare(s). As the tour is planned for 2 hours, it should be accomplishable with one TTC fare as long as you're paying by Presto or a credit card.

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

City Council May, 2026: Refusals, Deferred Projects, Transit

Anthony Teles — Tue, 26 May 2026 15:18:53 -0400

Toronto City Council’s May, 2026 meeting included a series of refusals, deferred applications, and transit-related planning decisions alongside the month’s larger slate of development approvals. The refusals ranged from small-scale residential infill and self-storage proposals to a major Liberty Village tower tied to heritage demolition requests, while other applications remained under review pending further consultation or additional Council consideration. Council also advanced zoning amendments connected to two major transit expansion projects. All the numbers are detailed below.

Refusals

614 Danforth Road
A Zoning By-law Amendment application was refused for 614 Danforth Road, where a mixed-use residential tower had been proposed at Hubert Avenue in Birchmount Park. Designed by BDP Quadrangle for Achille Developments, the 33-storey (110.24m) building would have contained 380 residential units above 322m² of commercial space. Council directed the City Solicitor to support the refusal at the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) if appealed.

614 Danforth Road, designed by BDP Quadrangle for Achille Developments

147 Liberty Street
Council refused heritage applications tied to 147 Liberty Street, where a mixed-use tower had been proposed at Liberty Street and Fraser Avenue in Liberty Village. Designed by Sweeny &Co Architects Inc for Intentional Capital, with heritage work by Giaimo, the 55-storey (179.62m) building would have contained 732 residential units and 1,140m² of office space. The refusals cover alterations to designated heritage properties, demolition of heritage attributes, and demolition of a single-storey building, with the City Solicitor authorized to oppose any OLT appeal while continuing discussions with the applicant.

147 Liberty Street, designed by Sweeny &Co Architects Inc for Intentional Capital

Mendota Road Self-Storage
City Council refused Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment applications for Mendota Road Self-Storage, where a four-storey self-storage facility had been proposed on the north side of Mendota Road in The Queensway area. Designed by Pearce McCluskey Architects and Archxes Design for Public Storage Canada, the project would have introduced a 15.24m-tall commercial building containing 11,155m² of self-storage space. Council directed the City Solicitor to oppose any potential OLT appeal and authorized the retention of external consultants if required.

Mendota Road Self-Storage, designed by Pearce McCluskey Architects and Archxes Design for Public Storage Canada

8 Parmbelle Crescent
Council refused the Zoning By-law Amendment application for 8 Parmbelle Crescent, where a small freehold townhouse development had been proposed in Three Valleys. Designed by Hyphen Studio for Majid Bagher-Nejad, the 3-storey (11.52m) building would have contained four townhouse units, each with three or more bedrooms. Council authorized the City Solicitor and appropriate City staff to support the refusal at the OLT if the decision is appealed.

8 Parmbelle Crescent, designed by Hyphen Studio for Majid Bagher-Nejad

Deferred and Referred Applications

3730 Kingston Road
Council referred the Zoning By-law Amendment application for 3730 Kingston Road to the July 9, 2026 meeting of Scarborough Community Council, allowing the proponent to finalize the proposal following a community meeting. Designed by SvN for TAS, the 24-storey (78.5m) mixed-use rental building would contain 419 rental units above 673m² of retail space at the northwest corner of Kingston Road and Scarborough Golf Club Road. The referral followed Scarborough Community Council’s refusal recommendation and a Council motion that would have replaced it with staff’s recommended zoning approval.

3730 Kingston Road, designed by SvN for TAS

221 Sterling Road
Consideration of the Rental Housing Demolition application for 221 Sterling Road was deferred to City Council’s June, 2026 meeting, keeping a major Junction Triangle redevelopment in review. Designed by Turner Fleischer for First Capital and Firm Capital, the proposal includes 21-, 24- and 27-storey buildings with 851 residential units, including 793 condominium units and 58 rental units, alongside 465m² of community space. Council deferred the item to the June 24, 25, and 26, 2026 meeting, rather than deciding on the requested Rental Housing Demolition approval.

221 Sterling, designed by Turner Fleischer for First Capital and Firm Capital

Transit Infrastructure

Yonge Line 1 North Subway Extension and Ontario Line 3
City-initiated Zoning By-law Amendments were adopted for the Yonge Line 1 North Subway Extension and Ontario Line 3, implementing zoning permissions across multiple transit-related properties in North York and lands near the Ontario Line 3 corridor. Led by Metrolinx, the former would extend Line 1 approximately 8km north from Finch station to Richmond Hill, including five stations and a mix of tunnelled and at-grade segments. The amendments also support continued implementation of the under-construction Ontario Line 3, the 15.6km, 15-stop rapid transit route running from Exhibition Place through Downtown Toronto to Don Valley station at Eglinton Avenue. Council also requested that Metrolinx provide an updated traffic study by the first quarter of 2027 for the Yonge Line 1 North Subway Extension construction along Yonge Street between Finch Avenue and Steeles Avenue.

Planned Yonge Line 1 North Subway Extension map, courtesy of MetrolinxOntario Line 3 map, courtesy of Metrolinx

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Ground Broken for Ontario Science Centre at Ontario Place

Anthony Teles — Tue, 26 May 2026 12:52:24 -0400

Yesterday, ground was officially broken for the new Ontario Science Centre at Ontario Place, marking the start of construction on the Province’s long-planned replacement for the former Don Mills campus. Backed by a fixed-price $1.04 billion contract awarded to Ontario Science Partners, the 400,000 ft² facility designed by Snøhetta and Hariri Pontarini Architects is targeted to open in 2029 as part of the Ontario Place redevelopment. The project will introduce a new mainland Science Centre building linked to revitalized pods and an upgraded Cinesphere.

Looking north to the Ontario Science Centre at Ontario Place, designed by Snøhetta and Hariri Pontarini Architects for the Province of Ontario, Infrastructure Ontario, Amico Infrastructures, and John Laing Limited

Planned as a replacement for the original Science Centre at Don Mills and Eglinton, the four-storey waterfront complex will combine exhibition, education, and event programming through hands-on exhibits, flexible learning environments, workshops, and immersive science spaces. Existing pods will be restored for new science-focused uses, while the Cinesphere will undergo interior and exterior upgrades, including enhanced IMAX systems and acoustic improvements, with seating capacity planned to be roughly double that of the former Science Centre's OMNIMAX theatre. The facility is also being designed to meet current accessibility standards, with the Province targeting Rick Hansen Foundation accessibility certification.

A high-angle view looking south to the Ontario Science Centre at Ontario Place, designed by Snøhetta and Hariri Pontarini Architects for the Province of Ontario, Infrastructure Ontario, Amico Infrastructures, and John Laing Limited

Plans for Ontario Place include more than 50 acres of publicly accessible open space, expanded shoreline trails, new beaches, playgrounds, interactive fountains, boardwalks, upgraded marina facilities, year-round event programming, and the RBC Amphitheatre (the redevelopment of the Budweiser Stage). The Science Centre complex itself will connect to the existing pods and Cinesphere through elevated walkways and public circulation routes in the waterfront park system.

“The new Ontario Science Centre at Ontario Place represents a shared commitment to the creation of a dynamic new space that will inspire curiosity, foster innovation and create unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages,” said John Carmichael, Chair of the Ontario Science Centre’s Board of Trustees. “This milestone is an exciting step towards our bold and vibrant future.”

The Province says it is positioning the new Science Centre as both an educational institution and a tourism driver. Construction of the facility is expected to support more than 1,000 jobs, while the Ontario Place redevelopment is projected to create roughly 5,700 jobs and contribute $420 million to Ontario’s GDP during construction. Provincial materials state that Ontario-based businesses and services will be prioritized through procurement policies tied to the Buy Ontario Act. Once complete, the revitalized Ontario Place is projected to attract up to six million visitors annually.

Ground breaking ceremony, image via twitter.com/StanChoMPP

“Today marks an exciting milestone as we break ground on the new Ontario Science Centre, where expanded programming space will deliver science-based learning to the next generation,” said Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of Infrastructure. “Our government is creating much-needed jobs as construction advances on this facility and on the revitalized Ontario Place.”

Project delivery is being overseen by Infrastructure Ontario through a design-build-finance-maintain procurement model, with the contract awarded to Ontario Science Partners. The consortium includes Agentis Capital Advisors, Amico Infrastructures, Sacyr Construction, and John Laing Ltd. The agreement includes a 30-year maintenance component intended to support long-term operations following completion.

“Bringing this vision to life requires not only remarkable design, engineering and construction, but collaboration at its core,” said Angela Clayton, President and CEO of Infrastructure Ontario. “Thank you to Ontario Science Partners, the Ontario Science Centre, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming and the City of Toronto for your partnership. We are committed to delivering something great at Ontario Place that everyone can enjoy.”

A high-angle view looking northeast to the Ontario Science Centre at Ontario Place, designed by Snøhetta and Hariri Pontarini Architects for the Province of Ontario, Infrastructure Ontario, Amico Infrastructures, and John Laing Limited

Visitors will be able to access the Science Centre through a giant above ground parking garage to be constructed to the east, or via transit at Exhibition station on the Lakeshore West GO line, TTC streetcar and bus services, and in the future, Ontario Line 3's western terminus.

Until the permanent Ontario Place location opens, the Ontario Science Centre is continuing operations through its expanding interim presence at Harbourfront Centre, where KidSpark and additional exhibitions, classrooms, and programming spaces are being introduced within an approximately 86,000 ft² temporary facility on Queens Quay.

* * *

News Roundup for May 26, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Tue, 26 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

More Ontarians missing mortgage payments, as balance delinquency rate jumps 52% in a year; Toronto Tech Week to ‘welcome the world’ to the city, say co-directors; a look at how Vancouver and Toronto are preparing for health risks of World Cup mass gatherings; and other news.

More Ontarians missing mortgage payments, as balance delinquency rate jumps 52% in a year (The Star)

Toronto Tech Week to ‘welcome the world’ to the city, say co-directors (CBC)

How Vancouver and Toronto are preparing for health risks of World Cup mass gatherings (The Globe and Mail)

Olivia Chow to run for re-election as Toronto’s mayor: ‘There’s more to do’ (The Star)

More TVs, extra staff: How businesses in Toronto’s Liberty Village are preparing for the World Cup (CP24)

TTC Tulips

Craig White — Tue, 26 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Tulips and other flowers are open across the GTA as warm weather brings another growing season to Southern Ontario. Covering the flower beds of St James Park, a TTC streetcar glides by as TTC-coloured tulips bloom in the foreground.

Tulips bloom in St James Park as a TTC streetcar glides by, at nowhere near a high enough speed, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor APTA-2028

This image comes to us courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor APTA-2048. Want to see your work featured as a 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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Ground Broken on 255-Unit Rental at 72 Perth in Junction Triangle

Anthony Teles — Mon, 25 May 2026 17:11:01 -0400

Construction is now underway on 72 Perth Avenue, where Castlepoint Numa and Hazelview Investments officially broke ground on May 22 on a new purpose-built rental development in Toronto’s Junction Triangle neighbourhood. Joined by Mayor Olivia Chow, Councillor Alejandra Bravo, MP Julie Dzerowicz, and members of the project team, the ceremony marked the start of construction for the 18-storey rental building designed by Studio JCI. Rising just south of Bloor Street West, the project will deliver 255 rental homes, including 51 affordable units (one in five homes in the building) managed in partnership with WoodGreen Community Services, with occupancy targeted for 2028.

Ground breaking ceremony, image courtesy of Castlepoint Numa and Hazelview Investments

“Projects like 72 Perth help the people who work in this city afford to live in this city,” said Chow. “Nurses, teachers, transit workers, artists, small business employees and families who keep Toronto moving should be able to build their lives here. With more family-sized rental homes, affordable units and homes close to transit, this project is part of our work to make sure Toronto remains a city where working people can stay, raise a family and belong.”

Mayor Olivia Chow speaking at the ground breaking event, image courtesy of Castlepoint Numa and Hazelview Investments

Planned with a four-storey podium along Perth Avenue, the building will contain 19,387m² of Gross Floor Area across a mix of one- to four-bedroom suites, including 94 two-bedroom and 27 three-bedroom units. Residents will have access to roughly 13,000 ft² of indoor and outdoor amenity space, including a fitness centre, swimming pool, sauna, coworking areas, games room, guest suites, and a children’s playroom. Outdoor terraces are planned across multiple levels, including rooftop amenity space on the 19th floor, while the development will include 257 bicycle parking spaces, a bike repair facility, direct access to the West Toronto Railpath, and 42 vehicular parking spaces within a single underground level.

Looking west to 72 Perth, designed by Studio JCI for Castlepoint Numa and Hazelview Investments

Affordable housing forms a major component of the development, with 51 homes secured through the City of Toronto’s Rental Housing Supply Program. Managed by WoodGreen Community Services, the affordable units will remain below-market for 40 years and are planned with the same finishes, amenities, and design standards as the market-rate homes, fully integrated throughout the building. The City committed approximately $16.5 million in incentives and financial support toward the project, including deferred development charges, property tax reductions, and waived planning and permit fees tied to the affordable housing component.

“This is an important milestone for the Davenport community,” said Bravo. “These new homes will help more people stay in the community they contribute to — close to their work, schools and support networks. Rental projects like this that include affordable housing units help ensure our neighbourhood remains inclusive and accessible.”

Councillor Alejandra Bravo speaking at the ground breaking event, Castlepoint Numa and Hazelview Investments

Sustainability and transit accessibility were central considerations in the project’s design, with the development targeting Tier 3 performance under NECB 2020 standards through an on-site geothermal heating and cooling system. The building is expected to reduce energy consumption by roughly 50% and greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 80% compared to baseline targets, while all units and common areas are planned to meet CSA barrier-free visitability standards. Located in the southern Junction Triangle, the site sits within walking distance of Dundas West station, Bloor GO station, and the UP Express, with direct access to the West Toronto Railpath and the Bloor Street West commercial corridor.

The groundbreaking marks the latest phase in Castlepoint’s transformation of the former industrial lands surrounding Perth Avenue and Sterling Road. After acquiring the broader site in 2008, the developer undertook environmental remediation work and helped guide the area’s evolution into a mixed-use district that now includes the restored Automotive Building and the adjacent T3 office campus.

“I think everyone understands the difficulty in delivering new housing today in our market,” said Jeff Brenner, Partner at Castlepoint Numa. “Through programs like the City’s Rental Housing Supply Program that has unlocked this project, we’re delivering much-needed rental housing and a meaningful amount of affordable housing, but what we’re so proud of is that we’re doing so without compromising on design.”

Looking northwest to 72 Perth, designed by Studio JCI for Castlepoint Numa and Hazelview Investments

The project forms part of a larger pipeline of City-supported rental housing developments underway across Toronto through the Rental Housing Supply Program. According to the City, more than 44 active projects are currently being advanced through municipal incentives and funding programs, representing over 11,000 new homes, including more than 6,200 affordable or rent-controlled units. Positioned near higher-order transit and cycling infrastructure, 72 Perth reflects the continued push toward transit-oriented rental intensification in established neighbourhoods as the City works toward its HousingTO 2020-2030 targets, with completion anticipated by the end of 2028.

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City Council May, 2026: Towers, Rental Housing, and Large-Scale Communities Approved

Anthony Teles — Mon, 25 May 2026 12:32:16 -0400

Thirteen development applications and planning decisions were adopted or advanced by Toronto City Council in May, 2026, ranging from small-scale townhouse infill and institutional conversions to a 'supertall' and major masterplanned waterfront community. Including the updated planning framework for Ookwemin Minising in the Port Lands which we covered in depth on May 22, the decisions account for approximately 18,500 residential units across the city, while the remaining individual development applications total 6,145 units. The approvals include 3,487 affordable rental homes, or 487 without Ookwemin Minising, alongside several major purpose-built rental developments in Etobicoke, Scarborough, and Midtown. All the numbers are detailed below.

Downtown

23 Toronto Street
A Zoning By-law Amendment received Council approval for 23 Toronto Street, a mixed-use tower proposed at the southeast corner of Toronto Street and Adelaide Street East in the Financial District. Planned by SvN for Goband Investment, the 91-storey (299.04m) development would contain 840 residential units alongside 4,086m² of office space and 3,563m² of retail space, while incorporating heritage properties with restoration work by ERA Architects. The approval also requests a review of excluding the development from residential permit parking eligibility.

23 Toronto Street, designed by SvN for Goband Investment

Midtown

1233 Yonge Street
Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments were approved for 1233 Yonge Street, a mixed-use condominium and rental replacement development proposed at the southeast corner of Yonge Street and Woodlawn Avenue East in Summerhill. Designed by Arcadis for Calmco Inc, the 48-storey (163.78m) building would deliver 730 condominium units, including 40 rental replacement units, above 332m² of commercial space. The approval directs the owner to pursue an off-site parkland dedication or provide cash-in-lieu.

1233 Yonge Street, designed by Arcadis for Calmco Inc

390 Spadina Road
A Zoning By-law Amendment was approved for 390 Spadina Road, advancing a mid-rise mixed-use condominium proposal at the northwest corner of Spadina Road and Montclair Avenue in Forest Hill South. Designed by Giannone Petricone Associates for Equinox Properties, the 14-storey (54.2m) building would deliver 54 condominium units above 585m² of retail space. Council also required a Tenant Assistance Plan for five existing rental units, while directing further work through Site Plan Control on transportation matters, public realm and building details, construction mitigation, retail entrances, and a neighbourhood liaison committee.

390 Spadina Road, designed by Giannone Petricone Associates for Equinox Properties

North York

179-181 Finch East
Approval was granted for Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments at 179-181 Finch East, advancing a mid-rise rental infill proposal on the south side of Finch Avenue East in Newtonbrook. Designed by Z Square Group for Gracestar Developments, the 7-storey (23.5m) building would contain 40 rental units, all with two or more bedrooms. Through Site Plan Approval, Council requested further review of the pick-up/drop-off space location, along with enhanced landscape buffering along the south property line.

179-181 Finch East, designed by Z Square Group for Gracestar Developments

Scarborough

1710 Ellesmere
Council adopted Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 1710 Ellesmere, a multi-tower redevelopment planned on the northeast corner of Ellesmere Road and Grangeway Avenue in Scarborough City Centre. Designed by Kirkor Architects and Planners for Tridel and Community Living Toronto, the five-tower plan would range 29 to 55 storeys, delivering 2,328 units, including 2,042 condominium units and 281 affordable rental units. The approval also advances a Draft Plan of Subdivision, securing a minimum 1,613m² on-site parkland dedication, with staff directed to explore a potential in-kind community benefit package that could include public art.

1710 Ellesmere, designed by Kirkor Architects and Planners for Tridel and Community Living Toronto

3000 Kennedy Road
A Draft Plan of Subdivision has moved forward for 3000 Kennedy Road, following the earlier 2024 zoning approval for a townhouse redevelopment on the west side of Kennedy Road in L'Amoreaux. Designed by TAES Architects Inc for Kingspound Development, the plan comprises nine 3-storey (13.15m) condominium townhouse blocks with 171 units. The subdivision approval is subject to final conditions and resolution of outstanding technical matters.

3000 Kennedy Road, designed by TAES Architects Inc for Kingspound Development

3130 Danforth Avenue
Council amended and adopted the Zoning By-law Amendment for 3130 Danforth Avenue, clearing the way for a purpose-built rental tower on the north side of Danforth Avenue in Oakridge. Designed by Arcadis for Crombie REIT and Northam Realty Advisors, the 33-storey (117m) building would introduce 445 rental units above 806m² of retail space. The approval asks the owner to pursue a suitable off-site parkland dedication or provide cash-in-lieu, with staff also directed to explore a potential in-kind community benefit package that could include affordable housing.

3130 Danforth Avenue, designed by Arcadis for Crombie REIT and Northam Realty Advisors

3313 Ellesmere Road
Council rejected Scarborough Community Council’s refusal recommendation for 3313 Ellesmere Road, instead adopting Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for a rental development on the south side of Ellesmere Road in Highland Creek. The approval followed a Council amendment replacing the Community Council position with staff’s recommended Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments. Designed by MAR Architect Inc for Regency Property, the 11-storey (41.15m) building would provide 180 rental units, all with two or more bedrooms, alongside 146m² of retail space.

3313 Ellesmere Road, designed by MAR Architect Inc. for Regency Property

East York

954 Broadview
Council adopted amended Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 954 Broadview, the Estonian House redevelopment proposed on the west side of Broadview Avenue in Broadview North. Designed by Graziani + Corazza Architects for Diamond Kilmer Developments, with heritage work by ERA Architects, the 26-storey (90.05m) mixed-use building would contain 309 residential units, including 301 condominium units and eight affordable rental units, above 100m² of retail space. The approval secures an additional $200,000 Section 37 contribution, directs a review of permit parking eligibility, and adds construction management, liaison, and wetland water balance requirements through later review stages.

954 Broadview, designed by Graziani + Corazza Architects for Diamond Kilmer Developments

Etobicoke

3838 Bloor West Shelter
Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments were adopted for 3838 Bloor West Shelter, permitting the conversion and expansion of a former nursing home on the north side of Bloor Street West in Etobicoke. Designed by ERA Architects for the City of Toronto, the 4-storey (13.9m) institutional project would provide a 60-bed municipal shelter within 1,781m² of space. Council approved the item as amended, using a revised zoning by-law attachment, after a separate motion to alter the zoning language was defeated.

3838 Bloor West Shelter, designed by ERA Architects for the City of Toronto

750 Queens Plate Drive
The Zoning By-law Amendment for 750 Queens Plate Drive was adopted on consent, advancing a condominium tower on the west side of Queens Plate Drive in Rexdale. Designed by Icon Architects for Royale Grand Woodbine Developments, the 17-storey (54.8m) building would contain 148 condominium units with 103 vehicular parking spaces and 125 bicycle parking spaces. Before the Bills are introduced, the owner must submit a Functional Servicing Report and address any required municipal infrastructure upgrades.

750 Queens Plate Drive, designed by Icon Architects for Royale Grand Woodbine Developments

970 Kipling Avenue
Planning approval was secured for 970 Kipling Avenue, the Toronto Builds Block 5 rental development at Dundas Street West and Kipling Avenue in the Six Points area. Designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects for Kilmer Group through CreateTO, the 43- and 28-storey buildings would deliver 840 purpose-built rental units, including 198 affordable rental units, above 1,061m² of retail space. Council adopted the Zoning By-law Amendment, updating the site-specific framework for the Bloor-Kipling block.

970 Kipling Avenue, designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects for Kilmer Group and CreateTO

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News Roundup for May 25, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Mon, 25 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

REITs are on the upswing led by growth in retail, seniors homes; Toronto moving quickly to patch up parts of city ahead of FIFA; expert says it should be the norm; tenants protest ‘extreme rent increases’ and ‘ignored maintenance requests’; and other news.

REITs are on the upswing led by growth in retail, seniors homes (The Star)

Toronto moving quickly to patch up parts of city ahead of FIFA; expert says it should be the norm (CP24)

Tenants protest ‘extreme rent increases’ and ‘ignored maintenance requests’ (CityNews)

Developers break ground on ‘family forward’ Junction rental building — with no studios (The Star)

Indigenous youth agency hosts annual Cultural Festival and Competition Pow Wow (CBC)

Bruno Mars postpones Toronto concert as heavy rain, winds sweep southern Ontario (Global News)

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is coming to Toronto in 18 days and excitement in the city is brewing (CBC)

Growing number of developers contacted for OPP investigation of city councillor, source says (The Star)

Harbour Vista

Craig White — Mon, 25 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Caught from a harbour taxi, the lights from Toronto's Downtown towers are reflected in the dark waters of the harbour on a recent, overcast evening.

The lights of buildings lining Toronto Harbour reflect in its dark waters on a Spring, 2026 evening, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor DarwinP

This image comes to us courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor DarwinP. Want to see your work featured as a 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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Council Approves Revised Ookwemin Minising Framework in the Port Lands

Anthony Teles — Fri, 22 May 2026 16:28:21 -0400

A redevelopment framework for Ookwemin Minising has secured Toronto City Council approval, advancing updated Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments alongside a revised Precinct Plan for the emerging Port Lands island community formerly known as Villiers Island. Planned by Waterfront Toronto and CreateTO, with masterplanning and urban design led by Allies and Morrison alongside SLA and Trophic Design, the revised framework would reshape roughly 39.8 hectares in the Lower Don Lands into a mixed-use waterfront neighbourhood containing 15 buildings (some with multiple towers), and heights reaching 46 storeys.

A high-angle view looking north to Ookwemin Minising, planned by Waterfront Toronto and CreateTO

Bounded by the Keating Channel, Toronto Inner Harbour, Polson Slip, and the Don Roadway, Ookwemin Minising is envisioned as a transit-first waterfront community structured around new parks, pedestrian corridors, cycling infrastructure, and the future Waterfront East LRT along Cherry Street and Commissioners Street. The revised framework increases density by roughly 27% above the 2024 Precinct Plan while expanding its focus on ecology, Indigenous placemaking, and climate-responsive urban design.

Axonometric view looking northeast to Ookwemin Minising, planned by Waterfront Toronto and CreateTO

One of the major privately owned redevelopment parcels within the precinct is 65 Ookwemin Street, formerly known as 309 Cherry Street (shown as Old Cherry Street in the diagram below), occupying a 20,158m² site at the southeast corner with Villiers Street and extending south to Commissioners Street (not including the site of the Cherry Street Bar-B-Que). Previously advancing through separate redevelopment applications, the site now falls within the broader Ookwemin Minising framework through site-specific planning permissions and exemptions.

Axonometric view of 65 Ookwemin Street, designed by SvN for Castlepoint Numa

Much of the island remains vacant or transitional following major flood protection and infrastructure works, although portions of the area continue to contain industrial, port-related, and interim commercial uses. Existing heritage structures across the precinct include the former Bank of Montreal building, former Canadian Oil warehouse, Queen’s City Foundry, Toronto Hydro substation, and the former Ontario Portland Cement silos west of the site.

Looking west to Cherry Street bridge in the Port Lands, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor hkhho

Formerly to be known as Villiers Island, Ookwemin Minising came about through the Port Lands Flood Protection Project with the rerouting and naturalization of the Don River entry into Toronto Harbour, transforming formerly industrial lands into a new island district intended for long-term mixed-use redevelopment. Toronto City Council adopted the original Villiers Island Precinct Plan in 2017 as part of the broader Port Lands revitalization strategy.

The precinct has since evolved through multiple revisions, including its renaming to Ookwemin Minising (meaning “place of the black cherry trees” in Anishinaabemowin/Ojibwemowin) alongside expanded Indigenous engagement involving the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Six Nations of the Grand River, the Wendat Nation, Indigenous co-designers, and urban Indigenous communities.

Looking west to the previous plan by Waterfront Toronto and CreateTO

The revised precinct framework organizes Ookwemin Minising into 17 mixed-use development blocks containing approximately 12,370 homes, including 3,000 affordable rental units. Heights would range from low-rise and mid-rise forms to towers reaching 46 storeys, supporting an estimated long-term population of roughly 21,000 residents alongside approximately 2,900 jobs.

Illustrative site plan, by Waterfront Toronto and CreateTO

The updated concept replaces earlier continuous podium conditions with a mix of building typologies, including mid-rise forms up to 12 storeys, taller mid-scale buildings ranging from 12 to 22 storeys, “fabric towers” within the island core, and taller “Keating towers” framing the northern waterfront edge. Density would be concentrated along the Keating Channel and central blocks while stepping down toward Biidaasige Park and the island’s edges.

Illustrative ground floor plan, by Waterfront Toronto and CreateTO

The revised built form strategy places greater emphasis on sunlight access, permeability, and environmental performance through expanded separation distances between buildings, including 40m tower-to-tower spacing, 18m spacing between taller mid-scale forms, and 12m separations for mid-rise buildings. Along the Keating Channel, taller buildings and mid-scale forms would create a varied skyline and animated waterfront promenade, while lower-scale buildings line Centre Commons and park edges to improve sunlight access and pedestrian comfort. The updated plan also distinguishes Villiers Street as the island’s primary retail corridor, Centre Commons as a community-focused pedestrian spine, and secondary streets intended to accommodate servicing and circulation more discreetly.

Centre Commons, Ookwemin Minising, planned by Waterfront Toronto and CreateTO

The “Growing Streets” concept prioritizes streetscapes, ecology, and open space ahead of individual buildings. At the centre of the plan is Centre Commons, a roughly 760m-long pedestrianized corridor lined with more than 400 trees and envisioned as the social and ecological spine of the neighbourhood. Other character areas include the Keating Channel entertainment and cultural district, the pedestrian-oriented Foundry Lane heritage corridor, and Ookwemin Street, where the Sandbar Trail traces the alignment of the historic shoreline and Indigenous travel routes once connecting the Don River to the Toronto Islands. Developed alongside Indigenous co-designers Trophic Design, the revised framework incorporates the “Living Legacy” strategy through interpretive landscapes, native planting, ecological restoration measures, and gathering spaces.

Ookwemin Street at Ookwemin Minising, planned by Waterfront Toronto and CreateTO

Compared to the earlier 2024 Precinct Plan, the updated framework places greater emphasis on biodiversity, climate resilience, and microclimate-responsive urban design. The revised proposal includes habitat creation strategies, stormwater management systems, urban heat island mitigation measures, and layered planting conditions intended to support birds, pollinators, and native vegetation throughout the precinct. Wind, sunlight, and thermal comfort analyses informed both the revised massing and landscape approach, while the updated framework further expands Indigenous placemaking elements throughout the public realm.

The future Waterfront East LRT runs through the precinct along Cherry Street and Commissioners Street along a protected right-of-way, with planned transit stops near Cherry and Commissioners Streets and at Commissioners Street and New Munition Street. Existing reconstructed Cherry Street and Commissioners Street connections would function as the island’s primary vehicular routes, while narrower local streets, including Ookwemin Street and Foundry Street, are planned as one-way corridors to reduce pavement widths and improve pedestrian conditions. The transportation network would also incorporate cycle tracks, pedestrian-oriented streetscapes, and a new Keating Channel pedestrian bridge connection to Biidaasige Park.

Streetscape at Ookwemin Minising, planned by Waterfront Toronto and CreateTO

The revised framework arrives amid significant redevelopment activity in the area. The Lower Don Lands redevelopment continues to reshape former industrial lands to the south. To the north, proposed large-scale developments include Oak House at Canary Landing, planned at 32 and 46 storeys, the 49-storey 351 Lake Shore East, and The Bend community, which would introduce nine buildings ranging from 8 to 53 storeys. Farther northwest, the Quayside redevelopment includes the proposed Block 4 featuring towers of 15 and 72 storeys at the east end of the site.

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Burke Condos Heritage Homes Unwrapped in St James Town

Anthony Teles — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:25:33 -0400

The heritage restoration at the foot of Burke Condominiums has now been unwrapped. Designed by Arcadis for Concert Properties, with heritage restoration overseen by ERA Architects, the 53-storey mixed-use tower at the northeast corner of Sherbourne and Howard streets in Toronto’s North St James Town neighbourhood incorporates a collection of restored late-19th-century heritage homes into its podium, including the 1894 Anson Jones House designed by architect Edmund Burke. UrbanToronto’s last update was in October, 2025, detailing finishing touches for the tower.

Seen from across Sherbourne Street in April, 2026, the restored heritage homes have now emerged from behind their long-standing scaffolds. The late-19th-century red-brick facades have been cleaned and repointed, with buff-brick lintels and arches restored. Dark-framed replacement windows and reconstructed wood trim contrast with the mostly red brick masonry, with steep slate-coloured gabled rooflines. Temporary white weatherproofing remains in places where finishes remain to be installed. To the south across Howard Street, construction is still at ground level on the adjacent The Bourne.

Looking southeast to restored heritage homes along Sherbourne Street, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Froggy

This month at the corner of Howard and Sherbourne streets, the Anson Jones House features a second-floor balcony enclosed by patterned wood detailing and supported by decorative wood brackets beneath the overhang. The restored red-brick masonry is articulated by decorative corbelling and vertically proportioned window openings fitted with dark-framed glazing.

Looking northeast from Howard and Sherbourne streets to restored heritage homes beneath Burke Condominiums, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor CLT

Looking from Howard Street, the completed base introduces a contemporary streetwall defined by reddish terracotta cladding accented with thin horizontal black bands that echo the tones of the adjacent restored heritage homes. Large retail glazing panels framed by dark aluminum mullions line the ground floor beneath projecting metal canopies, while the residential entrance is marked by a recessed double-height glazed lobby volume bearing Burke signage.Unfinished planters are seen in the foreground.

Looking northwest along Howard Street to the terracotta-clad podium frontage and restored heritage homes, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor jinarichard

Burke Condominiums rises above its restored heritage base and the completed podium frontage along Sherbourne Street. The tower is clad predominantly in light-grey precast panels framing stacked rows of inset balconies and window wall glazing, while continuous glazing wraps the tower’s northeast corner and extends upward through the mechanical penthouse levels. Midway up the building, the distinctive three-storey notch between the 26th and 28th floors cuts into the massing, articulated by projecting frames and darker cladding within the recessed opening.

Looking east to Burke Condominiums rising above its restored heritage base and terracotta-clad podium, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor jinarichard

At the north end of the site, the podium’s contemporary expression features reddish terracotta panels, dark metal trim, and expansive glazing at the tower base. In the foreground, public realm work remains ongoing, with sections of paving installed while other areas remain excavated. Temporary fencing encloses pavers and grading activity.

Looking southeast toward streetscape work at the north edge of the site, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor CLT

Burke Condominiums stands 163.4m tall and will contain 501 residential units.

Looking east to Burke Condominiums, designed by Arcadis for Concert Properties

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Industry Updates: Doors Open, HST Relief Details, Spring Market Activity, ULI Leadership

Anthony Teles — Fri, 22 May 2026 11:33:58 -0400

This month’s industry updates reflect continued efforts across the Greater Golden Horseshoe's housing and development sectors to address affordability, supply, and long-term market confidence, alongside a busy calendar of conferences, training programs, and industry events. New details surrounding the Province’s expanded HST relief measures, combined with fresh polling data commissioned by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, point to growing public pressure for policies that improve access to market-rate housing and restore confidence among prospective homebuyers. At the same time, updated market statistics from Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) suggest spring sales activity is strengthening amid tightening listing conditions, while organizations including Building Industry and Land Development Association (BIILD) and Urban Land Institute (ULI) Toronto continue to advance advocacy, professional development, and leadership initiatives across the industry.

Toronto skyline, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor steveve

Announcements

CHBA-Abacus Survey Highlights Declining Confidence in Housing Affordability
New research conducted by Abacus Data for the Canadian Home Builders’ Association suggests growing concern among Canadians about housing affordability and whether governments have a credible plan to address it. The survey found strong demand for homeownership remains across all age groups, though confidence in achieving it has weakened substantially, particularly among middle-income households who increasingly feel priced out of the market. Respondents also expressed broad support for measures such as GST/HST relief on new homes, lower development charges, and policies aimed at increasing overall housing supply, while many indicated current federal housing efforts have not gone far enough to improve affordability or restore confidence in the market.

ULI Toronto Announces New Leadership Team Beginning July 2026
ULI Toronto has announced a new slate of executive appointments to its Management Committee, with Kristy Shortall of Northcrest Developments set to become Chair beginning July 1, 2026. Signe Leisk of Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP will serve as Vice Chair, while Ossie Airewele of BDP Quadrangle joins the executive leadership team as Chair of Mission Advancement, supporting the organization’s strategic priorities and programming initiatives. The appointments come as ULI Toronto continues to expand its role in convening public- and private-sector leaders around issues including housing affordability, development approvals, and regional growth across the GTA.

TRREB Reports Stronger April Sales Activity Amid Tightening Market Conditions
TRREB reported 5,946 home sales across the Greater Toronto Area in April, 2026, representing a 7% increase compared to the same month last year, while new listings declined 9.3% year-over-year to 17,097 properties. The combination of rising sales activity and fewer listings suggests market conditions tightened through the first full month of the spring market, though buyers continued to benefit from lower average selling prices and improved borrowing conditions compared to 2025. TRREB also pointed to ongoing housing policy discussions surrounding municipal approvals, development charges, and housing supply constraints, as the organization released a new policy report focused on reducing barriers to residential development across Ontario.

Ontario Releases Details on Expanded HST Relief for New Homes
The Ontario government has published additional details outlining how its temporary HST relief program for new homes and purpose-built rental housing would function under the 2026 Budget framework. The proposed enhancements would increase provincial HST rebates to as much as $80,000 for eligible homes and rental units valued up to $1.5M, while introducing scaled relief for projects valued up to $1.85M and expanding eligibility across ownership, rental, and co-operative housing formats. The measures are intended to stimulate housing construction and improve affordability by lowering upfront costs for buyers and developers, with eligibility tied to specific construction and purchase timelines running through the end of the decade.

Construction Completed on Major DSV Logistics Hub in Innisfil
Ware Malcomb has announced the completion of a new 1.3 million ft² logistics and distribution complex for DSV in Innisfil, representing the company’s largest multi-client facility in Canada. Designed by Ware Malcomb and delivered through a design-build partnership with Broccolini, the project includes a large-scale warehouse facility alongside a two-storey, 40,000 ft² corporate office featuring collaborative workspaces, training areas, and direct visual connections to warehouse operations. Positioned on a 55-acre site, the development incorporates sustainability-focused features including rooftop solar panels, LED lighting, EV charging infrastructure, and design measures targeting potential LEED certification.

Events & Awards

Doors Open Toronto Reveals Full 2026 Program Lineup
The City of Toronto has released the full program for Doors Open Toronto 2026, which will take place May 23 and 24 with more than 160 buildings, tours, and special events participating across the city. This year’s “World in a City” theme highlights Toronto’s cultural diversity through architecture, heritage sites, workplaces, and community spaces, while new additions include locations such as Netflix Canada, the Toronto Star, TVO Studios, and 25 Ookwemin Street. The event will also feature guided neighbourhood tours, panel discussions, and programming at Toronto City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square, alongside access to many of the city’s most recognizable public and heritage buildings.

OHBA to Host Queen’s Park Day Advocacy Event
The Ontario Home Builders’ Association will host its annual Queen’s Park Day on May 25, 2026, bringing together board members, chapter chairs, and executive officers for meetings with provincial decision-makers in Toronto. The event is focused on advancing industry priorities related to housing policy, regulatory reform, and barriers affecting residential development and housing supply across Ontario.

Land & Development Conference Returns to Toronto in May
The annual Land & Development Conference will return to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on May 27, 2026, bringing together developers, investors, planners, consultants, and government representatives involved in shaping growth across the region. The event is expected to focus on issues including zoning, infrastructure delivery, investment trends, and the evolving policy environment influencing land development across Ontario and beyond. Organized as a major networking and knowledge-sharing forum for the industry, the conference will feature discussions aimed at addressing current market challenges and opportunities tied to future community growth.

BILD Awards Gala Returns to Vaughan This May
The Building Industry and Land Development Association will host the 2026 BILD Awards on May 28 at Universal Event Space in Vaughan, bringing together industry professionals to recognize achievements in design, construction, sales, and marketing across the Greater Toronto Area. Running since 1980, the annual awards program remains one of the industry’s highest-profile recognition events, celebrating projects and teams across multiple sectors of the homebuilding and development industry. The evening will include networking opportunities, formal presentations, and the announcement of this year’s award winners, with attendance limited to BILD members and industry guests.

CHBA to Host Adaptive Home Renovation Training Course
The Canadian Home Builders’ Association will host its Adaptiv Home Renovation Course online from June 9 to 10, 2026, offering training focused on aging-in-place design and accessible residential renovations. Targeted toward renovators, designers, architects, and contractors, the course will cover topics including accessibility standards, barrier-free design elements, home automation systems, and occupant health and safety considerations. Participants will also receive guidance on client communication, legal and insurance issues, and other professional practices tied to the growing demand for adaptive housing solutions across Canada.

BILD to Host Renovator and Custom Builder Town Hall
BILD will host its next Renovator & Custom Builder Town Hall on June 18, 2026, at Euro Tile & Stone in Toronto, bringing together renovators, custom builders, and industry professionals for a discussion-focused networking event. The session will feature an open Q&A led by Renovator Executive Chair Dwayne Butler, alongside presentations on building science, operational efficiency, and new product innovations relevant to residential construction and renovation work. Industry expert Gord Cooke of Building Knowledge Canada is scheduled to deliver a keynote focused on applying building science principles to improve performance and reduce long-term operating costs in housing projects.

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News Roundup for May 22, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Fri, 22 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

Doors Open Toronto returns this weekend with CN Tower debut; City announces free subway rides home from Rogers Stadium after summer concerts; a busy stretch of Church Street will be car-free this summer as part of pilot project; and other news.

Doors Open Toronto returns this weekend with CN Tower debut (CTV News)

City announces free subway rides home from Rogers Stadium after summer concerts (CBC)

City approves closing down Church Street for two months as part of pedestrian project (CityNews)

Metrolinx delays, rising costs and missed deadlines: Your Yonge North subway questions answered (The Star)

City councillors vote against referendum question on Ford government’s Billy Bishop expansion plans (CityNews)

Taxi, ride-hailing drivers brace for World Cup traffic and antsy passengers (Global News)

Weekend need-to-know: Doors Open is back (CityNews)

OneOneBloorBloorEastWest

Craig White — Fri, 22 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The sweeping lines of the complete One Bloor East, emphasized by the various glows coming through its frosted balconies, contrasts with the more geometric lines of One Bloor West behind it, mostly dark and still unfinished, but getting closer to done with every month that work continues.

Looking up to One Bloor East and One Bloor West in Downtown Toronto, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Nakita

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United Way Funding Supports Community Infrastructure Projects Across the GTA

Anthony Teles — Thu, 21 May 2026 15:46:43 -0400

United Way Greater Toronto (UWGT) has announced $2.2 million in capital funding for 14 community infrastructure projects across Toronto, Peel Region, and York Region, supporting initiatives ranging from supportive housing and refugee services to food security programs and culturally grounded spaces. Distributed through the organization’s Expanding Community Service Space Capital Grants program, the funding will help create roughly 140,000 ft² of new community space and support more than 320,500 ft² of housing and shelter space, as many non-profit organizations face mounting occupancy pressures across the GTA.

UrbanToronto spoke with Stefphon Nibbs, Director of Community Real Estate at UWGT, to learn more. “The current shifts with market segments like residential and retail are providing the sector with a moment to recalibrate, reinvest and reposition itself for the GTA of tomorrow,” said Nibbs.

The latest funding round forms part of UWGT’s Community Real Estate Initiative, a long-term strategy aimed at helping non-profit organizations secure stable space within rapidly changing neighbourhoods. The organization has committed $23 million over 10 years toward real estate projects, with more than $4 million already distributed across 27 grants since 2025. Alongside renovations and retrofit work, the initiative supports mixed-use developments combining housing, social services, health supports, and community programming.

“UWGT and community service organizations across the GTA are looking to seize the current market opportunities to ensure that people living in poverty and communities at large can access the right housing and right services where and when they need them across the GTA,” Nibbs said.

CHATS (Community & Home Assistance to Seniors), image by United Way Greater Toronto/Daria Perevezentsev (CNW Group/United Way Greater Toronto)

The initiative comes as demand for food banks, housing supports, newcomer services, and mental health programming continues to rise. Many organizations are simultaneously confronting escalating commercial rents, redevelopment pressures, and shrinking operational flexibility, particularly in high-growth neighbourhoods where agencies risk being priced out of the communities they serve. UWGT says its funding strategy is intended to help agencies secure long-term operational stability through ownership, redevelopment partnerships, and permanent facilities.

“With 65% of not-for-profit service providers currently in commercial leased spaces, UWGT is encouraging and enabling the social services sector to invest more in its foundations, literally, reducing the real risks of displacement and service discrimination to ensure that people will be able to access services close to home, including employment services, family resources, and food supports,” said Nibbs.

The latest funding round includes eight projects in Toronto, four in York Region, and two in Peel Region, ranging from heritage rehabilitation and accessibility retrofits to supportive housing redevelopments and community hub expansions. Many combine housing, food programs, counselling services, health supports, employment training, and cultural programming under one roof. UWGT says most second-round projects are expected to reach completion between 2027 and 2028, with funding decisions evaluated based on community impact, project readiness, financial feasibility, and long-term operational capacity.

Among the projects receiving support is StepStones for Youth’s planned redevelopment of a supportive housing site in Toronto for young people transitioning out of foster care and group homes. In Vaughan, CHATS (Community & Home Assistance to Seniors) is renovating a historic building to create the city’s first not-for-profit respite centre, providing short-term dementia care in a residential-style setting.

Other initiatives include the Yonge Street Mission’s ELEV8, which aims to combine affordable housing, workforce training, and community programming within a single facility. Toronto’s Somali Centre for Culture and Recreation is meanwhile advancing a new building that will provide recreational programming, cultural and heritage services, and social supports for community members ranging from children to seniors.

Somali Centre for Culture and Recreation, Toronto

“Organizations across the sector are looking at their revenue streams and assets and thinking about how to best position themselves for the future, both to provide services in underserved communities and to ensure that they can leverage long-term changes as population and neighbourhood needs grow,” Nibbs told UrbanToronto.

Beyond the current funding round, UWGT says the initiative forms part of a larger effort to reshape how community infrastructure is planned and delivered across the region. In addition to expanding its capital grant programs, the organization is continuing to develop new Community Hubs in locations including Unionville, Parkdale, Glenforest, Richmond Hill, Cooksville, and Bridletowne, while partnering with municipalities, agencies, and institutional landowners to secure long-term non-market space for social services. “Between now and 2035, UWGT will be investing at least $100 million to support the development of community service spaces across the GTA,” Nibbs said.

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Gilgan Family Queensway Health Centre Expansion Tops Off in Etobicoke

Anthony Teles — Thu, 21 May 2026 14:55:20 -0400

Construction has now topped off southwest of The Queensway and The West Mall on the Gilgan Family Queensway Health Centre expansion in Etobicoke, across from Sherway Gardens. Designed by Stantec for Trillium Health Partners, the new H-shaped wing is replacing former surface parking areas north of the existing hospital with a patient care expansion containing more than 113,000m² of institutional space providing over 350 new private patient rooms.

In a drone view from October, 2024, early substructure work was well underway beside the hospital's existing McCaul Centre for Continuing Care to the right. Two recently installed cranes rise above the single-level excavation. Around the crane bases, concrete columns and formwork define the two-level below-grade structure, while a red concrete boom pump stretches into the excavation in the background. Across the site are tracked excavators, drill rigs, and earthmoving equipment.

A drone view looking northeast to the two tower cranes and excavation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Tim MacDonald

In April, 2025, construction had transitioned above grade, with the first floor formed and decking in place for the second-floor slab. A grid of circular reinforced concrete columns features rebar projecting upward in anticipation of second level extensions. Crew members can be seen next to a green scissor lift, a series of wall forms to the right, and atop the structure in the background.

Looking north to the emerging structure now above grade, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor drum118

From across The West Mall and The Queensway at the beginning of 2026, the north volume had then reached its full eight-storey height, with the structural frame topped off beneath the twin cranes overhead. A construction hoist is installed in the centre of the elevation. Below, the first two floors have progressed into the enclosure phase, where blue-and-white weatherproofing wrap the facade ahead of final cladding installation, while sections of glazing and window framing have already been installed.

Looking south from The Queensway to the topped-off north volume, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor YongeBloor

This month, the new patient care building stands topped off. Between the two arms, a glazed connecting volume with curtain wall glazing establishes the central circulation spine, tying the complex together. Large sections of the facades remain wrapped in blue, white, or green weatherproofing. Along the east elevations, twin mast-climbing work platforms are attached to the structures to support facade installation and exterior finishing operations, with one active platform visible near the sixth floor at right. Below, darker pre-cladding panels and installed glazing are visible.

Looking west to advancing enclosure work and the glazed connecting mid-volume, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor drum118

Looking north, the project’s H-shaped massing becomes more legible as the two primary patient care wings frame the recessed central connector volume. A lower two-storey component stands to the left, wrapped in blue-and-white weatherproofing. Above the complex, a single remaining crane continues servicing the site.

Looking east to the single tower crane and two-storey structure on the west side of the site, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor drum118

A close-up of the northeast corner shows the first sections of the final facade system now being installed. Silver-grey aluminum cladding panels have been mounted over a black sub-framing support assembly, alongside window openings with installed glazing. To the left, orange weather tarping continues where open floor edges persist.

Facade panels installed at the northeast corner, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor drum118

Scheduled for completion in 2029, the redevelopment will consist of structures rising as high as 45.1m.

Looking west to the Gilgan Family Queensway Health Centre patient care tower, designed by Stantec for Trillium Health Partners

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35 Storeys Proposed Along Eglinton Line 5 in Scarborough

Anthony Teles — Thu, 21 May 2026 11:50:00 -0400

Along the Eglinton Avenue East corridor in Scarborough’s Ionview neighbourhood, new plans call for a portion of a vacant commercial plaza site to be redeveloped with a 35-storey mixed-use condominium tower. Designed by Graziani + Corazza Architects for The Rose Corporation, the proposal at 2347-2369 Eglinton Avenue East would sit within both the Kennedy and Ionview Protected Major Transit Station Areas on the Eglinton Line 5, continuing the area’s intensification following the arrival of higher-order transit.

Looking southeast to 2347 Eglinton East, designed by Graziani + Corazza Architects for The Rose Corporation

The site is on the south side of Eglinton Avenue East, just west of Kennedy Road. The lands are currently occupied by a vacant one-storey commercial plaza and a large surface parking lot. Surrounding uses reflect the area’s ongoing transition from auto-oriented commercial strips toward higher-density mixed-use development.

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

The proposal applies only to the western portion of the plaza property beside an existing apartment building. MHBC Planning has submitted a Zoning By-law Amendment application to the City of Toronto on behalf of the developer.

Proposed is a 35-storey mixed-use tower rising from a four-storey podium, reaching 138.5m. Positioned toward the northern portion of the site along Eglinton Avenue East, the building would contain 26,299m² of Gross Floor Area, including 25,852m² dedicated to residential uses and 447m² of ground-floor retail space, resulting in a Floor Space Index of 4.5 times coverage of the 5,838m² site. The development would deliver 375 condominium units, consisting of 159 one-bedroom units, 75 one-bedroom plus den units, 105 two-bedroom units, and 36 three-bedroom units. Four elevators are proposed within the tower, resulting in a ratio of approximately one cab for every 94 units, indicating reasonable response times when all elevators are operating.

Site plan, designed by Graziani + Corazza Architects for The Rose Corporation

The project includes 1,683m² of amenities split between 750m² of indoor and 933m² of outdoor area on the ground and fifth floors. At grade, the development proposes a 354m² POPS (Privately Owned Publicly-accessible Space) along the western edge of the site fronting Eglinton Avenue East.

Ground floor plan, designed by Graziani + Corazza Architects for The Rose Corporation

One underground parking level and at-grade parking areas would include a total of 139 parking spaces, including 127 resident spaces and 12 visitor spaces, with six accessible spaces overall and three visitor spaces designated for electric vehicles. The proposal includes 119 bicycle parking spaces, split between 80 long-term and 39 short-term spaces, with underground and at-grade bicycle parking for residents, visitors, and retail users.

Looking south to 2347 Eglinton East, designed by Graziani + Corazza Architects for The Rose Corporation

The site is within one of Scarborough’s most transit-connected corridors, located roughly 100m from the Ionview stop on Eglinton Line 5, approximately 380m from Kennedy station on Danforth Line 2, and about 585m from Kennedy GO station on the Stouffville corridor. The area is also served by multiple TTC surface routes, while cycling facilities run along Eglinton Avenue East.

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

The proposal joins other high-density redevelopment activity in the Kennedy-Eglinton area. To the south, 708 Kennedy Road has been proposed with towers rising 21 and 38 storeys, while to the east, 2425 Eglinton Avenue East would introduce another 35-storey tower near Kennedy Road. Further east, the Kennedy Green Co-Ops redevelopment is bringing three towers ranging from 18 to 40 storeys, while to the west, plans for 2200 Eglinton Avenue East call for a six-tower community, with Phase 1 including towers of 32 and 48 storeys.

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News Roundup for May 21, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Thu, 21 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

26 affordable housing projects set to lose city benefits due to delayed or stalled construction; Billy Bishop Airport expansion could cost $4-billion to $5-billion, port authority CEO says; a look at how FIFA’s contracts with Toronto and Vancouver split the World Cup’s risks and rewards; and other news.

26 affordable housing projects set to lose city benefits due to delayed or stalled construction (The Star)

Billy Bishop Airport expansion could cost $4-billion to $5-billion, port authority CEO says (The Globe and Mail)

How FIFA’s contracts with Toronto and Vancouver split the World Cup’s risks and rewards (The Globe and Mail)

FIFA World Cup to cost Canada $1B (CityNews)

Toronto could look at noise cameras to crack down on cars making excessive noise (CBC)

Lowering

Craig White — Thu, 21 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Sections of the Rail Climbing System that has sheltered workers as windows have been applied to the exterior of One Bloor West while it has gone up, are now coming down. Having topped off about a year ago, work to enclose the floors has nearly reached the final floors, while work to complete the crown is ongoing. Bit by bit, as the construction materials disappear, the structure gets closer to completion, and photos caught at the right time make for prime viewing.

A section of the Rail Climbing System is lowered back to ground at One Bloor West, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor jer1961

This image comes to us courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor jer1961. Want to see your work featured as a 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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241 Church Growing While Cladding Appears on Rising Rental Tower

Anthony Teles — Wed, 20 May 2026 15:42:16 -0400

Since UrbanToronto’s last update in December, 2025, when 241 Church had just emerged above grade, the Downtown Toronto rental tower has climbed through its podium levels and work is now transitioning into the main tower floor-plates. Designed by Turner Fleischer for Graywood Developments, the 53-storey project is reshaping the northeast corner of Church Street and Dundas Street East.

In March, 2026, from a high-angle vantage point, construction had advanced to roughly three full storeys. Along the Dundas Street East frontage at left, the fourth floor is partially formed, while vertical concrete shear walls and rebar cages mark active fifth-floor forming operations further south. Large wall forms and stacked panel systems occupy much of the central work area around the crane mast. To its right more formwork is staged.

A high-angle view looking southwest to formwork at the upper podium levels, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor dustinnantais

Along Dalhousie Street, red shoring posts are staged for when they will be needed to support new slab sections. At the centre, the crane hook suspends a material platform. The exposed concrete podium wall shows future window openings, while formwork is seen at the upper levels to the left. Orange weather tarps drape portions of the slab edge protection system overhead.

Looking southwest across Dalhousie Street to the west elevation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor GameOnBrad

From across Church Street in late April, 2026, 241 Church had then climbed to six storeys, the full podium height, with forming started on the seventh floor. Along the lower levels, new cladding installation work has begun with warehouse-style windows framed in black metal panelling and louvred sections. Below, hoarding panels illustrated by Matt Daley animate the Church Street frontage.

Looking east from Church Street to the west elevation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor flonicky

Earlier this month, large cantilevered construction platforms project outward from the south and east elevations at the fifth floor, providing staging space for materials. At the upper levels, perimeter formwork, slab decking, and red shoring posts remain visible beneath the crane. Additional warehouse style window installation is visible along the southeast corner at the second floor.

Looking northwest from Dundas Street East to 241 Church, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor FormerTorontonianBackInTO

A close-up of the west elevation shows cladding installation continuing. On the third floor, the arm of a compact spider boom lift can just be made out as it hoists an exterior cladding panel, being manoeuvred into place by crew members over the exposed concrete wall.

Looking east to lower podium cladding installation along the Church Street frontage, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor bcmc

From across both Church and Dundas streets, the six-storey podium is now largely formed as construction transitions upward into the narrower tower floor-plates above. Extensive slab-edge formwork and perimeter safety rails line the uppermost active levels, alongside concrete columns with rebar projecting upwards in anticipation of the next level above. Cladding now spans much of the second and third floors along the south and west elevations.

Looking northeast from Church Street and Dundas Street East to the podium-to-tower transition, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor skycandy

Once complete, 241 Church will rise 170.7m and deliver 591 purpose-built rental units.

Looking northwest to 241 Church, designed by Turner Fleischer for Graywood Developments

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UTPro Dashboard Report: Construction on Large-Scale Projects Continues to Increase

Ash Navabi — Wed, 20 May 2026 14:30:20 -0400

New data from UTPro shows that construction on large-scale projects continues to increase month-over-month in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, while new pre-construction proposals inch forward.

Our UTPro Public Dashboard is provides a snapshot of development activity in the Greater Golden Horseshoe at any given time. Each month, we highlight a snippet of what's going on: the scale of planned development, what’s actively being built, and how much residential vs. non-residential space is underway.

The UTPro Dashboard as of May 19, 2026.

The pipeline at a glance

As of May 19, 2026, in the 10 regions of the Greater Golden Horseshoe (Toronto, Durham, Halton, Peel, York, Hamilton, Simcoe, Waterloo, Wellington, and Niagara), there are 3,657 projects in pre-construction, an increase of 11 from the 3,646 last previous month. In total, there is about 1.462 billion square feet of Gross Floor Area in pre-construction (up 0.3% from 1.458 billion last month), 1.153 billion ft² of which is residential GFA (up 0.5% from last month's 1.147 billion ft²) for 1.804 million dwelling units (up 0.7% from 1.792 million units last month).

Under construction projects also increased to 685, up 17 from 668 last month. There is about 195.2 million ft² of Gross Floor Area in pre-construction (up 2.9% from 189.7 million ft² last month), 127.0 million ft² of which is residential GFA (up 1.5% from 125.2 million ft² last month) for 232,949 dwelling units (up 1.1% from 230,315 from last month).

Looking north through Toronto's Port Lands to the Distillery District and St Lawrence areas, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor NW87

Get More Data By Subscribing to UTPro

UTPro subscribers get access to many more dashboards and our full data set of over 150 fields from which they can create custom reports and maps tracking development projects across the Greater Golden Horseshoe. Find out how to unlock all our data here.

Transit-Oriented Community Planned at Martin Grove Station on Eglinton Line 5 Extension

Anthony Teles — Wed, 20 May 2026 12:10:24 -0400

A Transit-Oriented Community (TOC) is being proposed at the future Martin Grove station on the Eglinton Line 5 West Extension in Etobicoke, where Infrastructure Ontario plans to transform long-vacant former Richview Expressway corridor lands into a mixed-use residential block. Designed by Arup, the proposal for 4800 Eglinton Avenue West would introduce four 18-storey towers in Toronto’s Richview neighbourhood. The project would fill one of the largest remaining undeveloped gaps along the evolving Eglinton corridor, where building heights are limited by flight path restrictions associated with Pearson Airport.

Looking northwest to the Martin Grove Transit-Oriented Community, designed by Arup for Infrastructure Ontario

The proposal applies to a site on the northeast corner of Eglinton Avenue West and Martin Grove Road. The lands currently consist primarily of undeveloped open space and an unpaved overflow parking area serving the adjacent Richview Pumping Station and Reservoir, while portions of the site are presently being used by Metrolinx as a construction laydown area for Line 5 work. Immediately north of the site are Richview Reservoir and Richview Park, while the broader neighbourhood is characterized by tower-in-the-park apartment buildings, low-rise detached housing on interior streets, schools, parks, and commercial plazas.

A high-angle view looking north to the current site, image from submission to City of Toronto

Ontario’s TOC program was launched in 2019 to pair major rapid transit investments with mixed-use development. The wide Eglinton Avenue West corridor lands originally assembled by the former Metropolitan Toronto government in the 1970s for the cancelled Richview Expressway left behind wide, undeveloped buffers along the roadway for decades. Those lands are now being repurposed alongside construction of the seven-station extension of Line 5 that will connect Mount Dennis station westward to Renforth station at the Etobicoke-Mississauga boundary. In April, 2025, Toronto City Council authorized negotiations with the Province through the Ontario-Toronto New Deal process to facilitate the transfer of the developable lands adjacent to future stations for TOC projects.

A high-angle view looking northwest to the Martin Grove Transit-Oriented Community, designed by Arup for Infrastructure Ontario

The proposal is organized into two development blocks arranged around a large central public plaza aligned with the future station entrance. Each block calls for a pair of 18-storey towers reaching 57m. The West Block, positioned closest to the station entrance, would be paired with a similarly scaled East Block, framing the internal open spaces and pedestrian routes through the site toward Richview Park.

Looking east to the station entrance and West Block, designed by Arup for Infrastructure Ontario

In total, the development would contain 684 residential units within approximately 51,670m² of Gross Floor Area on the 9,613m² site, resulting in a Floor Space Index of 5.38 times lot coverage. Residential uses would account for 50,763m², accompanied by 907m² of ground-floor retail and flexible commercial space. The unit mix would include 36 studio units, 344 one-bedroom units, 171 two-bedroom units, and 133 three-bedroom-plus units. The project would also include approximately 2,394m² of indoor amenities. Each tower would contain two elevators, equating to roughly one cab per 69 units in the West Block and one per 103 units in the East Block.

Ground floor plan, designed by Arup for Infrastructure Ontario

A large plaza between the two blocks would function as a gathering area connecting directly to the future station, while landscaped pathways and seating areas would extend throughout the site. Commercial uses would be concentrated at grade along the plaza and station-facing frontages, with flexible layouts intended to accommodate retail, services, or community-oriented tenants. The proposal also identifies the possibility of a daycare-compatible commercial space adjacent to an enclosed courtyard along the north side of the East Block.

Site plan, designed by Arup for Infrastructure Ontario

There would be 208 parking spaces located within a two-level underground garage, alongside 604 bicycle parking spaces, including 60 short-term and 544 long-term spaces. Plans also contemplate a publicly accessible protected bicycle parking facility for the West Block.

Looking northeast to the Martin Grove Transit-Oriented Community, designed by Arup for Infrastructure Ontario

Existing TTC bus routes already serve the intersection, including the Martin Grove 46 buses which head south Bloor Line 2 at Kipling station. The site is also positioned along existing active transportation infrastructure, including the Eglinton West Trail multi-use path and bike lanes running south along Martin Grove Road toward Rathburn Road.

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

The proposal joins an uptick in redevelopment activity along the corridor. East of the site, the Princess Gardens NE Infill proposal would introduce a 16-storey building at the Kipling Line 5 station, while 63 Widdicombe Hill is planned at 7 and 18 storeys. Further east, the multi-phase Richview Square redevelopment would add buildings at 2 and 13 storeys in Buildings C and D to taller 24- and 29-storey elements in Buildings A and B.

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News Roundup for May 20, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Wed, 20 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

Metrolinx subway extension to Richmond Hill delayed, confidential TTC documents reveal; Ford government faces criticism for lack of a business plan for Billy Bishop expansion; Mimico neighbours cry foul after builder applies to turn fourplex into eightplex; and other news.

Metrolinx subway extension to Richmond Hill delayed, confidential TTC documents reveal (The Star)

Ford government faces criticism for lack of a business plan for Billy Bishop expansion (CityNews)

Mimico neighbours cry foul after builder applies to turn fourplex into eightplex (The Star)

Ontario's claims of economic impact for Toronto Island airport expansion based on incomplete study (CBC)

Toronto city council today: Billy Bishop referendum, Metrolinx’s SmartTrack invoices — and a councillor’s legal bills (The Star)

Billy Bishop expansion could cost up to $5B. But taxpayers won't foot the bill, federal agency says (CBC)

Internet-free Sundays, more playgrounds and spreading joy: Here’s what these Torontonians would do if they were mayor (The Star)

Gutted

Craig White — Wed, 20 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The former Toronto Coach Terminal — which operated from 1931 to 2021 at its location on the west side of Bay Street a half block north of Dundas Street — is coming down. Well, most of it is coming down as witnessed in the gutting of the former bus bay area, below. Portions with heritage value will be retained and restored as components of the primarily residential development that will take its place over the coming years.

The bus bay area of the former Toronto Coach Terminal mid-gut as the building is prepared for redevelopment, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor GameOnBrad

This image comes to us courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor GameOnBrad. Want to see your work featured as a 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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Cladding Climbs to Halfway Point at KING Toronto

Anthony Teles — Tue, 19 May 2026 17:30:00 -0400

Since UrbanToronto’s last update in November, 2025, the signature glass-block facade system at KING Toronto now extends roughly halfway up the complex’s tallest peaks. Designed by Bjarke Ingels Group for Westbank Corp and Allied Properties REIT, the 16-storey mixed-use development continues to reshape the King-Spadina neighbourhood with its cascading terraced massing and prefabricated enclosure system.

On the Wellington Street-facing south elevation in March, 2026, crew members guide one of the prefabricated cladding frames into position between already enclosed sections. Suspended by rigging straps from above, the aluminum-framed assembly is carefully manoeuvred into alignment by workers positioned both at the slab edge and from the floor below.

Looking north to cladding installation activities on the Wellington Street facade, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor AHK

Along the King Street facade, one of two cladding crews is now active across several levels, compared to the single-crew operations previously. Workers can be seen coordinating slab-edge preparations, bracket alignment, and facade installation activities, while completed sections of the prefabricated cladding system increasingly define the angular projecting volumes. Temporary guardrails and exposed structural slabs remain visible above.

Facade installation crews along the King Street elevation, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor AHK

This month, we look from King Street West to the sculptural stepped massing, with cladding installation having advanced to roughly the eighth level across much of the exterior. Completed sections of glazing and prefabricated facade panels wrap the project’s projecting volumes, while temporary plywood infill remains visible in select openings awaiting final enclosure. At the west end of the site, the retained heritage structures remain concealed behind white tarp, while both cranes continue supporting installation activities overhead.

Looking southeast from King Street West to KING Toronto’s advancing glass-block facade, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor AHK

This close-up of the northwest corner highlights the intricate assembly of the project’s custom cladding, where prefabricated glass-block cladding panels frame windows and across the building’s cascading stepped geometry. The aluminum frame assemblies wrap projecting volumes and recessed terraces, producing the pixelated, sculptural exterior expression.

Northwest corner facade detailing, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor AHK

Across the south side of the site, the stepped “peaks and valleys” massing is increasingly enclosed by the advancing glass-block system. The prefabricated facade assemblies continue to wrap the cascading terraces and projecting bays with a mix of translucent glass blocks, full-height glazing, recessed balcony openings, and dark aluminum framing. To the left is one of the neighbouring heritage warehouse buildings on Wellington Street.

Looking northwest across the south elevation and terraced massing, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor AHK

Across the south elevation, the cascading volumes rise above the retained brick-and-beam heritage warehouse building that frames the site at grade. Raw concrete soffits await finishings. Temporary shoring posts and support framing remain visible beneath portions of the cantilevered facade geometry. Above, the sharply terraced profile steps upward toward the tower peaks, with the eastern tower crane boom cutting across the view.

Looking west to the south and east elevations above retained heritage buildings, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor jackattack

Once complete, KING Toronto will reach a top height of 57.6m while delivering 440 condominium units.

Looking south to KING Toronto, designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) for Allied Properties REIT

* * *

Centennial Park Sport Training Facility Opens Pre-World Cup

Anthony Teles — Tue, 19 May 2026 16:25:00 -0400

A new sport training facility has opened At Centennial Park in Etobicoke, a FIFA World Cup 2026™ venue-specific training site that will host international teams competing in Toronto before transitioning into permanent public recreation use following the tournament. An opening event was held on Friday, May 15, 2026. The City of Toronto project supported through a $20 million provincial investment. Public access to the facility is expected to begin in September, 2026, after the conclusion of FIFA World Cup activities.

“Centennial Park is an important space for residents and families, and these improvements mean more people will have access to high-quality places to stay active, connect with one another and enjoy their neighbourhood,” said Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto. “As our city grows, investing in parks helps ensure communities have the space and opportunities they need to thrive, both now and in the years ahead.”

Occupying a portion of the sprawling 1.4 million m² Centennial Park lands, the training site was developed to FIFA standards ahead of the international tournament. The facility includes three soccer pitches, a multi-use field, upgraded landscaping, and two single-storey fieldhouses designed by Cherie Ng Architect totalling approximately 2,077m² of institutional space. Following the World Cup, the site will support local leagues, youth athletics, and public recreation.

“Our government is proud to invest in the new state-of-the-art training site at Centennial Park, including multiple soccer fields, which will benefit the community of Etobicoke for years to come,” said Premier Doug Ford.

“This brand-new, world-class facility will serve as a critical location for the athletes from across the world to train and compete,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “By investing in the Centennial Park training site, we are strengthening Ontario’s capacity to host world-class international competitions and leaving a meaningful legacy that will serve local athletes and residents for years to come.”

Attendees at the opening event, including Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport (left) and Premier Doug Ford (centre), image via twitter.com/NeilLumsdenMPP

The Centennial Park investment forms part of Ontario’s support of Toronto’s role as a World Cup host city. Provincial estimates project the tournament will support more than 8,700 jobs across Ontario while generating upwards of $1.3 billion in economic activity. Alongside Centennial Park, Ontario is supporting the FIFA Fan Festival™ Toronto at Fort York and The Bentway, where daily attendance could reach 20,000 visitors during the 22-day event.

“This impressive new facility at Centennial Park will help boost Ontario’s reputation as a premier destination for athletic competitions from across Canada and around the world,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “By welcoming athletes and their supporters to train and compete here in Etobicoke, we are also creating opportunities for visitors to explore beyond our downtown core, showcasing our province and benefitting local businesses and communities.”

For Etobicoke residents, the project adds another major recreational component to Centennial Park, which already functions as one of the city’s largest concentrations of athletic and open-space amenities. Once tournament operations conclude, the upgraded fields and support facilities are expected to accommodate community programming, youth soccer, local leagues, and recreational use.

* * *

Six-Building Mixed-Use Community Proposed Near Dufferin and Finch

Anthony Teles — Tue, 19 May 2026 12:00:00 -0400

In Toronto’s York University Heights area some blocks north of Finch Avenue West, a mixed-use redevelopment is proposed by Serebryany on the west side of Dufferin Street, south of Martin Ross Avenue, and extending west to Brisbane Road. Addressed to 4646 Dufferin Street, plans are for a six-building community featuring residential, seniors housing, medical office, retail, and community uses. Designed by Turner Fleischer, the buildings would range from 6 to 21 storeys high.

Looking northeast to 4646 Dufferin Street, designed by Turner Fleischer for Serebryany

The site is currently occupied by a single-storey commercial and medical office plaza with surface parking. While the massive G. Ross Lord Park on the West Don River is immediately across Dufferin Street to the east, the rest of the surrounding area is largely characterized by low-rise employment and commercial uses.

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

MHBC Planning has submitted an Official Plan Amendment application to the City of Toronto on behalf of the developer. The proposed redevelopment is organized into six blocks arranged around a new internal private street network and a centrally located POPS (Privately-Owned Publicly-accessible Space). The proposal would deliver 95,003m² of Gross Floor Area (GFA) at a Floor Space Index of 4.51 times coverage of the 24,994m² property, with building heights ranging from 27m to 72m. The program would include 1,046 residential units split between 423 ownership condo units, 194 rental units, and 429 seniors housing units, alongside 10,558m² of medical office space, 1,072m² of retail space, and 324m² of community space.

Site plan, designed by Turner Fleischer for Serebryany

At the northwest corner of the site, Block 1 would introduce a 6-storey medical office building containing 10,557m² of GFA. Immediately south along Brisbane Road, Block 2 would rise 10 storeys, delivering 247 seniors housing units within 17,922m² of GFA. At the north centre of the site, Block 3 is the tallest component of the proposal at 21 storeys, containing 229 ownership units and 18,817m² of GFA fronting Martin Ross Avenue. South of it, Block 4 would rise 16 storeys and 57m tall with 182 seniors housing units and 324m² of community space within 15,121m² of total GFA.

Looking east to 4646 Dufferin Street, designed by Turner Fleischer for Serebryany

Along the Dufferin Street frontage, Block 5 to the north would introduce a 12-storey mixed-use rental building containing 194 rental units and 542m² of retail space within 16,740m² of GFA. To its south, Block 6 would rise 14 storeys and 51m tall, delivering 194 ownership units alongside 529m² of retail space within 15,845m² of GFA. Architectural plans indicate three elevators would serve each tower, while the 10-storey seniors building would contain four elevators, resulting in approximately one cab for every 65 to 76 units per building, indicating reasonable service promptness.

Looking west to 4646 Dufferin Street, designed by Turner Fleischer for Serebryany

Indoor amenity space totalling 1,235.4m² is proposed across Blocks 3, 5, and 6. Outdoor amenity areas would be included through rooftop terraces and step-backs above lower floors across multiple blocks, while the 4,792m² POPS would function as the project’s primary open space spine. Below grade, two underground parking levels would provide 1,540 vehicular parking spaces shared across the development.

Ground floor plan, designed by Turner Fleischer for Serebryany

The site is served by several TTC and York Region Transit routes operating along Dufferin Street and Finch Avenue West. Finch West station on University Line 1 and the Finch West Line 6 LRT lies approximately 2.5km west of the site. The proposal would also connect to the Finch Corridor Recreational Trail, the G. Ross Lord Park trail system, and cycling routes along Supertest Road and Flint Road.

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

While much of the surrounding area remains low-rise, several larger redevelopment proposals have begun emerging nearby. To the southwest, 2 Champagne Drive is proposed at 11 storeys, and to the east, 591 Finch West is currently under construction at 12 storeys. Further north, larger proposals include 1881 Steeles Avenue West with four towers from 12 to 32 storeys, alongside 1875 Steeles Avenue West featuring three towers from 14 to 39 storeys.

* * *

News Roundup for May 19, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Tue, 19 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

TTC and union announce tentative deal to avert strike as FIFA World Cup approaches; Ontario touts $8.5B annual economic impact from Toronto Island airport expansion — but won't show the math; Ottawa still pledging to double construction pace despite home building headwinds; and other news.

TTC and union announce tentative deal to avert strike as FIFA World Cup approaches (The Star)

Ontario touts $8.5B annual economic impact from Toronto Island airport expansion — but won't show the math (CBC)

Ottawa still pledging to double construction pace despite home building headwinds (Global News)

‘Tempered enthusiasm’: No spring real estate bloom, but buyers are slowly coming back (The Star)

With a lobby makeover, Royal Theatre looks forward to its next era of business (CBC)

CMHC reports annual pace of housing starts in April up from March (The Star)

Greeting the Day in Humber Bay

Craig White — Tue, 19 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Sunrise over Humber Bay, and behind Downtown Toronto's towers beyond, makes for a spectacular way to greet the day in the condos of Etobicoke's Humber Bay Shores area.

Sunrise breaks over Humber Bay, with the Downtown Toronto skyline silhouetted beyond, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor 67Cup

This image comes to us courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor 67Cup. Want to see your work featured as a 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.

* * *

Side-by-Side Bloor Condo Plans Consolidated into 36-Storey Student Residence

Anthony Teles — Fri, 15 May 2026 16:00:00 -0400

A redevelopment proposal across from the Royal Ontario Museum and the University of Toronto's St George campus is dramatically changing plans for 208 and 210 Bloor Street West, where plans for previously approved side-by-side condominium towers have been scrapped, the properties consolidated into a single one for a 36-storey privately run student residence designed by Turner Fleischer for Resident and Tribute Communities. The proposal would more than double the combined residential yield of the earlier projects while largely remaining within the already-approved zoning envelopes established through prior approvals for the two sites.

Looking north to 208-210 Bloor Street West, designed by Turner Fleischer for Resident and Tribute Communities

The proposal applies to an assembly on the north side of Bloor Street West between Avenue Road and Bedford Road, currently with a nine-storey commercial building at 208 Bloor and a two-storey commercial building at 210 Bloor. To the north are private laneways behind Museum House and Exhibit Condominiums to the east. The surrounding area features a mix of institutional, residential, and commercial uses tied closely to the University of Toronto and the Bloor-Yorkville corridor.

Looking northwest to the current sites for 208 Bloor Street West (right) and 210 Bloor Street West (left), image retrieved from Google Maps

The redevelopment follows separate planning approval processes for the two properties over the past several years. At 210 Bloor Street West, Tribute Communities first submitted plans in 2018 for a 29-storey condominium tower designed by Core Architects containing 42 two-bedroom units plus retail space at grade. The application was refused by City Council in 2019 before advancing to the then-named Local Planning Appeal Tribunal, where the proposal ultimately secured approval through an Ontario Land Tribunal decision in 2021. The approved scheme included a three-level underground garage with 75 residential parking spaces.

Looking northwest to the previous plan for 210 Bloor Street West, designed by Core Architects for Tribute Communities

Next door to the east, Resident (then operating as Plaza Partners) pursued a separate redevelopment proposal for 208 Bloor Street West beginning in 2021. Designed by BDP Quadrangle, the project evolved through multiple revisions before receiving approval in 2023 for a 34-storey mixed-use condominium tower with 142 units and community space at grade.

Looking north to the previous plan for 208 Bloor Street West, designed by BDP Quadrangle for Resident

Following those approvals, and responding to the changing real estate market, the two development teams entered into a joint venture to combine the properties into a single redevelopment parcel. The current proposal now advances through a consolidated Site Plan Approval resubmission, submitted by Goodmans LLP to the City of Toronto on behalf of the developers, alongside Minor Variance applications tied primarily to integrating the two previously approved zoning frameworks into one project. The proposal would introduce a 36-storey private student residence rising 114.14m. A retail component totalling 220.7m² would line the Bloor Street frontage, while the project would achieve a Floor Space Index of 21.20 times coverage of the 1,315m² site.

Site plan, designed by Turner Fleischer for Resident and Tribute Communities

The building would contain 426 student rental units with approximately 1,006 beds. The suite mix would include 69 one-bedroom units, 233 two-bedroom units, and 124 three-bedroom-plus units, reflecting the student-oriented programming through a strong emphasis on shared accommodations. The development would provide 27,889m² of Gross Floor Area, including 27,668m² dedicated to residential uses. Residents would have access to 1,491m² of indoor amenity space alongside 41m² of outdoor amenity areas. Four elevators are proposed for the tower, equating to roughly one for every 107 units, indicating that high speed motors would be required to provide adequate response times.

Ground floor plan, designed by Turner Fleischer for Resident and Tribute Communities

A single underground level is proposed beneath the building, a substantial reduction from earlier plans for multiple below-grade parking levels. The underground floor would accommodate bike lockers, laundry facilities, and amenity areas, while maintaining an approximately 8.1m separation from the nearby TTC tunnel infrastructure. Vehicular parking would be limited to four short-term surface spaces accessed through the existing laneway network behind the site, with no resident parking proposed. Bicycle infrastructure would include 235 spaces overall, consisting of 192 long-term and 43 short-term spaces.

Looking north to the podium, designed by Turner Fleischer for Resident and Tribute Communities

The proposal is within one of Toronto’s most transit-connected corridors, located approximately 200m east of St George station and roughly 350m from both Museum and Bay stations.

A map of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Toronto

The proposal arrives amid continued intensification across the western Bloor-Yorkville and University precincts. To the west, the University of Toronto’s 14-storey Academic Wood Tower is under construction alongside residential proposals including the 15-storey 64 Prince Arthur and the 36-storey 145 St George. South of the site, demolition of the former McLaughlin Planetarium is making way for U of T’s 6-storey Centre for Civilizations, Cultures, and Cities. Nearby construction activity also includes the 20-storey 89 Avenue Yorkville and 31-storey One Thirty Eight to the northeast, while larger proposals farther east include 69 Yorkville at 39 storeys, 83 Bloor West at 77 storeys, and 80 Bloor Street West at 78 storeys.

Looking northeast to 208-210 Bloor Street West, designed by Turner Fleischer for Resident and Tribute Communities

* * *

The Dawes Climbs Above Heritage Grain Elevator Near Danforth GO

Anthony Teles — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:30:20 -0400

Not far east of where the three colourful towers dubbed Rushden Station reshaping Toronto's Main Street and Danforth GO area as they rise higher, another major high-rise project has been steadily climbing with less fanfare. In Toronto’s Danforth Village neighbourhood, The Dawes by Marlin Spring Developments and Osmington has now pushed its taller tower beyond the halfway mark toward its eventual 43-storey height, alongside a rising 24-storey tower, as the Arcadis-designed, mixed-use development ascends from behind a former industrial grain elevator site.

Looking northwest actoss Dawes Road back in May, 2023, the retained 1906 industrial grain elevator structure remains standing with heritage retention work getting underway. Corrugated metal cladding and the weathered industrial facade remain intact, while a heavy steel scaffold frame has been assembled to the right to support the structure during rehabilitation works.

Looking northwest to the retained heritage grain elevator structure, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor HousingNowTO,

Looking southeast to their rears, rehabilitation work on the heritage structures shows temporary walls wrapped in white Tyvek weatherproofing, in place alongside the original corrugated metal-clad volume.

Looking southeast to heritage rehabilitation and weatherproofing, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor HousingNowTO

Jumping three years to catch up to today, the taller tower at The Dawes has climbed well above the heritage structures. The reinforced concrete superstructure now rises with a notably slender floor-plate at its south end, while exposed slab edges, perimeter safety railings, and formwork remain in place at the uppermost levels. A construction hoist is installed on the east elevation. Below, green and white netting respectively covers the scaffold wraps the heritage rehabilitation area and the new build integration areas at the base.

Looking northwest to the taller tower rising above heritage structures, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor christiesplits

This view highlights the massing composition, where the slender, wedge-shaped residential tower rises from its podium. The concrete frame shows pronounced projecting balcony stacks along both tower the wise west and narrow south faces, creating a repetitive grid of slab edges and recessed vertical breaks. At the lower levels, the podium transitions through a series of open structural bays and transfer slabs supported by thick, cylindrical concrete columns, including an especially prominent oversized column at the corner behind the heritage structures.

Looking northwest to the podium and tower massing taking shape, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor christiesplits

Looking west, the taller tower has risen to approximately 26 storeys. The structure is being formed at the 27th floor, while below, a six-storey podium volume projects northward toward where the shorter 24-storey tower — its footprint marked by the second blue crane — will rise. Roughly one level of it is formed so far. Formwork tables are staged atop the connecting podium roof. In the distance to the right, high-rise construction of one of the Rushden Station towers makes it into the frame.

Looking west to The Dawes rising beside Rushden Station near Danforth GO, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor CLT

Once complete, The Dawes will rise 43 and 24 storeys, reaching heights of 143.91m and 83.7m respectively, while delivering 688 condominium units to Toronto's East End.

Looking northeast to The Dawes, designed by Arcadis for Marlin Spring Developments and Osmington

* * *

News Roundup for May 15, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Fri, 15 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

These Toronto councillors want the province’s Billy Bishop airport plan added to the October ballot — if the province will let them; Upper Beaches residents angry over lack of vibration, noise mitigation for Metrolinx expansion; TTC days away from possible lockout as concerns grow over service disruptions during World Cup; and other news.

These Toronto councillors want the province’s Billy Bishop airport plan added to the October ballot — if the province will let them (The Star)

Upper Beaches residents angry over lack of vibration, noise mitigation for Metrolinx expansion (CBC)

TTC days away from possible lockout as concerns grow over service disruptions during World Cup (CP24)

CREA reports April home sales down as spring market still hasn’t thawed (The Star)

Weekend need-to-know: Celebrate Victoria Day with fireworks, festivals and food (CityNews)

Formahenge

Craig White — Fri, 15 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Four times a year, as the earth's rotation axis tilts about 17° off of the sun's geometric centre, (as earth approaches and retreats from the biannual equinoxes in March and September), Toronto's east-west streets line up with the sunrise and sunset. Caught during the most recent 'Torontohenge' on April 19th, a brilliant sunrise with colourful clouds bounces off the folded and reflective walls and windows of the Frank Gehry-designed Forma, now rising on King Street on the west side of Downtown.

Looking east along King Street past Forma during the April 19, 2026 'Torontohenge' sunrise, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor kotsy

This image comes to us courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor kotsy. Want to see your work featured as a 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.

* * *

Phase 2 Emerges Above Grade at The Residences at Central Park

Anthony Teles — Thu, 14 May 2026 16:32:29 -0400

Set along the wooded edge of the East Don River ravine in North York, construction at The Residences at Central Park is continuing to expand as Phase 2 has now begun to emerge above grade. Designed by Core Architects for Amexon Development Corporation, the 12-acre masterplanned community at Leslie Street and Sheppard Avenue East will introduce five residential towers ranging from 12 to 31 storeys at the east end of Bayview Village. Since UrbanToronto’s last update covering the first residents moving into the completed 31-storey Phase 1 in April, 2026, activity is now concentrated across the southern portion of the site, where structural work is advancing on Phase 2, just north of Leslie station on Sheppard Line 4.

Looking northeast this month, we see three cranes for Phase 2’s 19-storey and pair of 31-storey towers, with the former on the left and the latter two on the right. Steel-reinforced concrete forming has advanced to grade level for portions of the shared podium and tower bases. Near the centre of the site, formwork panels surround the crane mast at grade, while newly poured concrete columns are seen to the right. Along the eastern edge, closer to the road, rounded concrete columns are also emerging at grade. To the right, slab forming is progressing along the sloped site, where shoring posts and decking are assembled for an upcoming concrete pour above the street-facing frontage. Below, portions of the P1 garage level remain exposed.

Looking northeast to Phase 2 emerging at grade beside the occupied Phase 1 tower, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor CLT

Rising behind the active construction (above) is the completed 31-storey Phase 1 tower. The tower’s glazed facade contrasts against the exposed concrete and forming activity in the foreground. Below the tower, portions of the finished six-storey podium are visible behind the cranes, including completed glazing and cladding installed during the first phase. The Phase 2 towers will be connected through a shared podium containing approximately 35,000 ft² of retail space, additional amenity areas, and an extension of the continuous underground garage serving the full community, equipped with EV charging infrastructure at every parking stall.

Cafe featuring patio as part of retail in the shared space, image courtesy of Amexon

Phase 1 introduced many of the architectural and public realm elements that will define the broader community, including continuous balcony bands fitted with the project’s willow leaf-motif glass guards inspired by the adjacent ravine landscape. Inside the podium, amenity spaces include a double-height fitness area with floor-to-ceiling glazing, indoor lounges, and shared social areas overlooking the future Central Park Common. Supporting infrastructure delivered alongside the tower includes the completed Green Trail Road and portions of the internal pedestrian network connecting residents rheough Central Park Common to the Don Valley ravine park system.

Central Park Common, image courtesy of Amexon Development Corporation

The wider masterplanned community is organized around that planned three-acre landscaped open space: Central Park Common will tie the five buildings through pedestrian promenades, retail frontages, and amenity terraces. Planned features include a central lawn, timber seating platforms, shaded café-style areas, and a curved trellis pavilion integrated within the public realm. The site’s relationship to the East Don River ravine remains central to the design, with a completed stair connection now descending from the community into the trail system below. Along the valley edge, slope stabilization and riprap reinforcement have been completed to support long-term erosion control, while upper-level suites and amenity terraces will overlook the surrounding treed ravine corridor.

The future stairway into the ravine from Central Park, image courtesy of Amexon

At full build-out, The Residences at Central Park will deliver 1,478 residential suites across five buildings ranging from 46.5m to 105.9m in height. Leslie station is just across Sheppard Avenue to the south. In the future, Metrolinx has plans to relocate Oriole GO station there too.

Looking northeast to The Residences at Central Park, designed by Core Architects for Amexon

* * *

Toronto Unveils Names for New Electric Ferries Amid Jack Layton Terminal Upgrades

Anthony Teles — Thu, 14 May 2026 14:28:01 -0400

Toronto’s long-planned transition toward a modernized Island ferry system took another step forward today, as the City unveiled the names of its first two fully electric ferries while showcasing ongoing infrastructure upgrades at the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. Announced by Mayor Olivia Chow and Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik, the new vessels — Lady of the Quays and Toronto Islander — are now being built in Romania, while works at the downtown ferry terminal continue to prepare for charging infrastructure, expanded passenger capacity, and upgraded accessibility supporting the roughly 1.4 million annual trips to Toronto Island.

“These vessels represent a historic investment in Toronto’s waterfront,” said Chow. “As the first new ferries in more than 60 years, they will modernize this essential service, significantly increase capacity, and support a fully zero-emissions fleet. The City continues to improve visitor experience and access to the Toronto Island, helping prepare for a busy summer and the FIFA World Cup.”

Rendering of the Lady of the Quays, image by City of Toronto

The names were selected through a four-week public vote that drew nearly 18,000 submissions. Lady of the Quays, submitted by the York Quay Neighbourhood Association, was selected for the new vehicle-and-passenger ferry replacing the Ongiara, while Toronto Islander was chosen for the passenger-only replacement for the 1935-built William Inglis. Scheduled to arrive in late 2026 and 2027, respectively, the vessels will significantly increase passenger capacity, with both ferries accommodating up to approximately 1,300 riders.

The replacement vessels will introduce wider ramps, accessible washrooms, enclosed passenger areas, improved circulation layouts, and expanded seating while modernizing a fleet whose main vessels date from 1935 through 1963. The first ferry will retain winter ice-breaking capability while increasing carrying capacity over the existing Ongiara, while future replacement plans for the Sam McBride and Thomas Rennie remain included within the City’s long-term capital program.

“Toronto is welcoming two new, higher capacity, faster, all-electric ferries,” said Malik. “These vessels will make trips to Toronto Island Park even more accessible and enjoyable. Naming boats is a long-standing tradition and I’m excited that Torontonians had the opportunity to help name these new additions.”

Rendering of the Toronto Islander, image by City of Toronto

Designed by Quebec-based Concept Naval and being built by Damen Shipyards in Galati, Romania, the ferries form part of the City’s TransformTO emissions reduction strategy. Once all four primary ferries are replaced, the City estimates the transition could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 2,900 tonnes annually and lower fuel costs by more than $1 million per year. Residents previously selected the ferries’ “Art + Social” interior concept through a public vote favouring a brighter, gallery-inspired design.

The City also outlined waterfront and Toronto Island improvements planned ahead of the summer season, including upgraded queueing areas and digital displays at the ferry terminal, accessibility and dune restoration work at Hanlan’s Point Beach, expanded Bike Share facilities, and new and returning attractions at Centreville. The ongoing upgrades also connect to longer-term ambitions for the future transformation of the ferry terminal and Harbour Square Park area, first explored through Waterfront Toronto’s 2015 design competition.

Looking east in March, 2026, marine construction activity is underway beside the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal as crews continue infrastructure upgrades supporting the incoming electric ferry fleet. A lattice-boom crane extends its hoist line toward a neighbouring floating platform, where workers are handling a large rebar cage likely tied to dockwall and marine foundation works. Behind the waterfront hoarding, a vertical drilling rig equipped with a rotary piling attachment rises above the site, indicating ongoing foundation and mooring infrastructure installation associated with the terminal’s new electrical charging and docking systems.

Looking east to marine construction activity and crane beside the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor achandi

A view from the waterfront boardwalk, a few days later, captures the large cylindrical steel reinforcement cage that has now been staged alongside additional pipe sections and construction materials awaiting installation.

Looking southeast to floating work platforms and dockwall rehabilitation works, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor mburrrrr

Looking west across the waterfront, the full extent of the marine works comes into view as construction continues on the shoreside infrastructure. Temporary trailers, staging areas, construction fencing wrapped in blue screening, and stockpiled materials line the terminal frontage. A green articulating boom lift operates on the right for works associated with the electrical systems and charging infrastructure that will support the incoming ferries beginning in late 2026.

Looking west across the broader marine infrastructure and charging system works, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor ProjectEnd

* * *

32 Raglan Resubmitted as 35-Storey Seniors Tower Near St Clair West Station

Anthony Teles — Thu, 14 May 2026 11:58:28 -0400

Madison Group is repositioning a previously approved mixed-use residential tower at 32 Raglan Avenue in Toronto’s Cedarvale neighbourhood into a seniors-focused development, now partnered with VERVE Senior Living. Located within the St Clair West Protected Major Transit Station Area, the Minor Variance application would bump the Turner Fleischer-designed project from 34 to 35 storeys. No new renderings have been submitted at this time.

West elevation, designed by Turner Fleischer for Madison Group

The proposal applies to a 12-property assembly at 10 through 32 Raglan Avenue on the west side of the street north of St Clair Avenue West, between Bathurst Street and Vaughan Road. Currently vacant following the demolition of a row of semi-detached homes, the assembly is bordered by public laneways to the south and west that are planned for widening as part of the redevelopment. The surrounding area has seen extensive mid- and high-rise intensification in recent years.

Looking northwest to the current site, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor SaugeenJunction

Madison Group first submitted a Zoning By-law Amendment application in 2020 for a 28-storey condominium designed by Superkül on the site. Following an appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal in 2021, the proposal advanced via a settlement with the City that introduced a public park, community space, and small-scale retail uses at grade. Subsequent revisions approved through Minor Variance applications in 2023 and 2024 increased the project from 28 to 34 storeys while boosting the unit count from earlier iterations to 509 suites. Originally intended to be marketed as “Alfie Condos,” the project was refocused to respond to an underserved market following weakening condo market conditions.

Looking northwest to the previous design by Superkül for Madison Group

Bousfields has now submitted a Minor Variance application to the City of Toronto on behalf of the developers, seeking to adapt the building for seniors-focused uses. The project would now rise to 129m, up from 119.73m. Podium heights have increased to accommodate taller floor-to-floor dimensions associated with care facilities, dining areas, and common support spaces. The approved public park and laneway improvements remain part of the site layout.

Looking west to the previous design for the podium, by Superkül for for Madison Group

The development would have a Gross Floor Area of 28,662m², reduced from the previously approved 29,665m², with 28,564m² devoted to residential and seniors housing functions alongside 98m² of retail space at grade. The proposal results in a Floor Space Index of 10.22 times coverage of the 2,720m² site, down slightly from 10.64 times coverage. The revised program would include a vertically integrated seniors housing model combining independent seniors apartments, retirement home suites, assisted living, and memory care accommodations.

Site plan, designed by Turner Fleischer for Madison Group

Plans call for wider corridors intended to function as continuous circulation routes for memory care residents, alongside larger elevators, accessible suite configurations, and expanded shared support areas. The building would contain six elevators in total, equating to roughly one for every 56 suites or rooms. The expanded programming has resulted in tower floor-plates increasing from 818m² to 887m². Amenity space would increase significantly from roughly 1,633m² to 5,883m², including 5,092m² indoors and 791m² outdoors, driven by the introduction of communal lounges, dining rooms, kitchens, recreational areas, and care facilities.

The earlier scheme included 509 dwelling units composed primarily of one-bedroom suites alongside 51 three-bedroom units required through earlier approvals. Under the revised plans, the project would contain 135 conventional dwelling units, 128 retirement home bed-sitting rooms, and 70 nursing home rooms, for a combined total of 333 suites and rooms. The proposed dwelling unit mix includes 73 studios, 95 one-bedroom units, and 166 two-bedroom units.

Ground floor plan, designed by Turner Fleischer for Madison Group

Two underground garage levels would provide motor vehicle parking, though spaces decrease from 106 to 102. Bicycle parking would be reduced significantly from 510 spaces to 68 spaces, including 41 long-term and 27 short-term spaces, anticipating substantially lower cycling demand from future residents.

The site is located within walking distance of the 512 St Clair streetcar route. It is about 350m west of St Clair West subway station on University Line 1.

An aerial view of the ground floor plan and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Toronto

Numerous mid- and high-rise buildings are at various stages of development in the neighbourhood. To the south, applications at 536 St Clair Avenue West and 5 Raglan would rise 30 and 34 storeys respectively, while to the north, plans at 40 Raglan call for a tower reaching 36 storeys, while the 15-storey Groove Urban Condominiums and 28-storey Raglan House are under construction. Further north, additional proposals include 12 storeys at 147 Vaughan Road, 17 storeys at 146-150 Vaughan Road, and a 30-storey tower at 91 Raglan. East of the site, Forêt would introduce three towers ranging from 35 to 41 storeys.

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News Roundup for May 14, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Thu, 14 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

Scarborough’s subway extension delayed, confidential TTC documents reveal; TTC, union look to strike deal as clock ticks on FIFA World Cup; CREA reports April home sales down four per cent from year earlier; and other news.

Scarborough’s subway extension delayed, confidential TTC documents reveal (The Star)

TTC, union look to strike deal as clock ticks on FIFA World Cup (CBC)

CREA reports April home sales down four per cent from year earlier (The Star)

A rare guided tour of the CN Tower's off-limit areas (CBC)

Five new Doors Open Toronto locations this year — including the Toronto Star newsroom (The Star)

Gold at the End of the Rainbow

Craig White — Thu, 14 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

In Toronto, maybe it's not a pot of gold that you'll find at the end of the rainbow, but a condo. Rising just to the south of a recent reflective, refractive, and dispersed meteorological light phenomenon, One Delisle is growing ever taller, and actually more pot-shaped the higher it gets, transitioning from a squarish floor-plate at ground level to a rounder one up top. Taken at magic hour, or golden hour if you will, it all adds up to a brief, special moment on Toronto's skies.

One Delisle can be found just to the south of the end of the rainbow, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor Midtown Urbanist

This image comes to us courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor Midtown Urbanist. Want to see your work featured as a 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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Pearson Launches $3B First Phase of Airport Modernization

Anthony Teles — Wed, 13 May 2026 16:30:07 -0400

Toronto Pearson has officially launched Pearson LIFT (Long-term Investment in Facilities and Terminals), a multi-phase infrastructure program for Canada’s busiest airport, with major investments in airfield operations, terminal systems, and future passenger expansion capacity. Marked by a ceremonial ground breaking on Monday, May 11, the initiative by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority begins with a $3-billion first phase focused on upgrading baggage infrastructure, modernizing airside operations, and expanding aircraft movement infrastructure across the airport’s sprawling airfield over the coming decade. This will lay the groundwork for future terminal expansion projects while aiming to accommodate up to 28,000 additional daily passengers within the existing facilities.

Officials and project partners at the ceremonial groundbreaking for Pearson LIFT, image by Toronto Pearson

Pearson LIFT is structured around three major programs intended to address both immediate operational pressures and longer-term passenger growth. The first phase, Accelerator, is now underway, focusing on airfield upgrades, baggage handling improvements, sustainability-focused infrastructure work, and renewal of core airport systems aimed at improving day-to-day operations and supporting near-term growth. Two larger programs remain in procurement: T1/T3 Revitalization, which would modernize passenger processing areas, retail spaces, employee facilities, plus groundside access across the existing terminals; and Gateway, the airport’s long-range Terminal 1 expansion program expected to introduce substantial new terminal space and additional gates to support projected passenger growth through the early 2030s.

Conceptual rendering of retail space for Pearson Terminal 1 Expansion Gateway Program, image by Toronto Pearson

“Today marks a pivotal moment, the culmination of three years of planning, analysis, competitive procurement and collaboration with industry partners and air carriers to deliver a state‑of‑the‑art airfield that will make Toronto Pearson one of the most efficient and digitally-advanced airports in the industry,” said Deborah Flint, President and CEO of Toronto Pearson. “This is an investment that increases capacity for global trade with Canada. Passengers can be more confident in their journeys through North America’s 2nd most internationally-connected airport.”

Rather than immediately beginning large-scale terminal additions, the first phase is focused on extracting more capacity from the airport’s existing footprint through operational and infrastructure improvements behind the scenes. The current work aims to accommodate up to 28,000 additional passengers daily by improving aircraft circulation across the apron and taxiway network, reducing gate bottlenecks, expanding aircraft staging areas, and upgrading baggage handling operations. The improvements are expected to reduce delays tied to aircraft waiting for available gates, while creating more efficient movement between runways, taxiways, and terminal boarding areas.

“As it's completed, you'll hear less of the pilot saying, ‘We're here early, and we're waiting for a gate.’ This will help with that,” said Flint.

Diagram illustrating proposed airfield and gate circulation improvements, image by Toronto Pearson

A major component centres on modernization of Toronto Pearson’s 2.2-million m² airfield, including the addition of new aircraft stands, construction of a high-speed taxiway, and upgrades to the airport’s lighting and guidance infrastructure. The work will introduce a new airfield lighting control and management system capable of coordinating aircraft movement more dynamically across runways and taxiways, improving aircraft guidance, visibility, and ground movement coordination. Together with apron reconfiguration and expanded aircraft circulation areas, the upgrades are anticipated to improve taxi efficiency and aircraft sequencing while preparing the airport’s airside infrastructure for future navigation technologies and increased flight volumes.

The first phase will also overhaul large portions of Toronto Pearson’s baggage handling network, with investments spanning roughly 30km of conveyor and processing infrastructure throughout the airport. Planned improvements include new baggage carousels in Terminal 1 alongside upgraded monitoring systems using cameras and sensors capable of detecting operational issues and conveyor blockages earlier in the process. The modernization effort looks to improve system reliability and reduce service interruptions as passenger volumes increase, while supporting smoother connections between check-in, screening, aircraft loading, and baggage claim operations.

Beyond operational upgrades, the Accelerator program will include a series of infrastructure and utility improvements aimed at supporting lower-emission airport operations as Toronto Pearson continues to grow. Planned work includes expanded electric vehicle charging facilities, upgrades to the airport’s energy distribution network, and modernization of heating systems serving the terminals and support infrastructure.

Conceptual rendering of interior at Pearson Terminal 1 Expansion Gateway Program, image by Toronto Pearson

While the current construction phase focuses primarily on operational infrastructure, Pearson LIFT’s longer-term plans include major passenger terminal expansion through the future Gateway program. Now moving through procurement, Gateway is expected to add substantial new terminal space accommodating an additional 15 million annual passengers (or 41,000 more passengers per day), building toward projected airport demand of roughly 65 million passengers annually by the early 2030s. Earlier planning materials tied to the Terminal 1 expansion outline approximately 40 new narrow-body equivalent gates alongside expanded retail areas, additional Canadian Air Transport Security Authority screening lanes, upgraded baggage claim facilities, and expanded U.S. pre-clearance space.

Toronto Pearson land use planning framework to 2037, image by Toronto Pearson

Delivery of the Accelerator program is being carried out through a progressive design-build model. Toronto Pearson selected the Pearson Accelerator Construction Team (PACT) to lead the work, bringing together Kenaidan Contracting, Alberici Constructors, Amico Major Projects, and Obayashi Canada, supported by a design joint venture between Egis and Mott MacDonald with contributions from WW+P Architects, WSP Canada, and Woods Bagot. The phased approach is intended to allow major infrastructure upgrades to proceed while maintaining continuous airport operations.

Conceptual rendering of Pearson Terminal 1 Expansion Gateway Program

Toronto Pearson says the broader Pearson LIFT program will support significant economic growth as the airport expands over the coming decade, with projections pointing to 16,000 new on-site jobs and support for more than 160,000 jobs nationally. Based on analysis prepared by Oxford Economics, the airport estimates the program could contribute roughly $30 billion to the Canadian economy while generating more than $10 billion annually in spending with suppliers across the country. Additional announcements tied to future terminal revitalization and expansion phases are expected later this year as procurement and planning work continue across the remaining Pearson LIFT programs.

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Dundas-Ossington Mass-Timber Affordable Rental Revised

Anthony Teles — Wed, 13 May 2026 12:14:16 -0400

Revised plans for a City-led affordable housing development at 1113 through 1125 Dundas Street West in Toronto’s Trinity-Bellwoods neighbourhood are advancing through Site Plan Approval, following Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law approvals secured in 2024. Now designed by Montgomery Sisam Architects and Moriyama Teshima Architects for CreateTO, the mixed-use proposal, slated to begin construction in July, 2026, will bring a 10-storey mass-timber rental building with ground-floor retail to the south side of Dundas Street West just east of Ossington Avenue.

Looking southeast to 1113-1125 Dundas Street West, designed by Moriyama Teshima Architects and Montgomery Sisam Architects for CreateTO

The site is on the south side of Dundas between Ossington Avenue and Shaw Street, spanning 1113, 1117, and 1125 Dundas Street West. The property currently consists primarily of a City-owned Green P surface parking lot — which the Ossington BIA fought unsuccessfully not to lose — while a formerly vacant detached house at the eastern edge of the site has since been removed as part of early site preparation work. Located west of Trinity-Bellwoods Park, the area surrounding the site is characterized by a mix of low-rise residential streets, with a concentration of main street commercial storefronts, restaurants, bars, and independent retail, especially along Ossington Avenue to the south and Dundas Street to the west.

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

The proposal traces back to May, 2022, when City Council authorized the site as part of Toronto’s Mass Timber Affordable Housing Pilot Program, intended to advance affordable rental housing alongside low-carbon construction methods on City-owned land. Initial plans were prepared through Brook McIlroy, with public consultations held in 2024 as the project moved through Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment applications. A revised submission filed in May, 2024 removed an earlier planned 3-storey laneway building, reducing the total unit count from 100 to 94 units while retaining the 10-storey main building. City Council later adopted the required planning approvals in July, 2024. Since then, the project has transitioned into the City’s Toronto Builds framework, with CreateTO overseeing delivery alongside the Housing Development Office under the City’s public builder model.

Looking southeast to the initial concept designed by Brook McIlroy for CreateTO

The revised proposal will continue to bring a 10-storey, mixed-use, mass-timber building to the site, rising to 36m (slightly up from 35.5m), alongside a smaller 4m-tall ancillary structure. While the overall height and primary built form remain largely consistent, the latest plans refine the internal layout and reduce the unit count. Retail space will continue to animate the Dundas frontage.

Looking south to the ground floor, designed by Moriyama Teshima Architects and Montgomery Sisam Architects for CreateTO

The revised submission contains 74 rental units, down from the previously proposed 94. The updated unit mix eliminates studio apartments entirely, instead shifting toward larger suite formats with more family-sized housing through 42 one-bedrooms, 25 two-bedrooms, and 7 three-bedroom units (previously 18 studios, 56 one-bedrooms, 15 two-bedrooms, and 5 three-bedroom units). The affordable housing component remains with 28 affordable rental units.

Site plan, designed by Moriyama Teshima Architects and Montgomery Sisam Architects for CreateTO

Updated density figures show the project now with a total Gross Floor Area of 6,279m², reduced from approximately 7,730m² in 2023, producing a Floor Space Index of 3.7 times coverage of the 1,699m² assembly. Of the total GFA, 6,079m² is dedicated to residential uses, alongside 200m² of retail space at grade. Amenities include 176m² of indoor and 367m² of outdoor area. Vertical circulation will be handled by two elevators, equating to one cab for every 37 residential units, indicating prompt response times.

Ground floor plan, designed by Moriyama Teshima Architects and Montgomery Sisam Architects for CreateTO

The project continues as a mass-timber building under the City’s affordable housing and low-carbon construction initiatives, incorporating onsite geothermal systems. No vehicular parking is proposed. Bicycle parking has been reduced from 105 to 86 spaces, comprising 68 long-term and 18 short-term spots.

Looking southwest to 1113-1125 Dundas Street West, designed by Moriyama Teshima Architects and Montgomery Sisam Architects for CreateTO

The site is located along the 505 Dundas streetcar corridor which connects to both Bloor Line 2 and University Line 1, while the 63 Ossington bus is a short walk west, connecting to Bloor Line 2, and in the future to the under-construction Ontario Line 3, via Exhibition station.

A map of the site and surrounding area, image from submission to City of Toronto

The proposal is one of a small number of redevelopment sites across the surrounding neighbourhoods. South of the site, 28-36 Halton Street is proposed at 4 storeys, while the 108 Harrison Shelter proposal to the north would rise 3 storeys. Additional intensification is planned to the north along College Street, where proposals include the 6-storey 833 College, the 9-storey 219 Roxton, and the 14-storey Costi House.

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News Roundup for May 13, 2026

UrbanToronto Staff — Wed, 13 May 2026 09:30:00 -0400

Real-estate firm bulk buys $30 million of downtown Toronto condos; officials unveil $88M plan for Ajax police station as chief cites growing population; Toronto risks ‘collapse’ if cars flood streets during World Cup games, says planning expert; and other news.

Real-estate firm bulk buys $30 million of downtown Toronto condos: ‘They’re sitting empty’ (The Star)

Officials unveil $88M plan for Ajax police station as chief cites growing population (CBC)

Toronto risks ‘collapse’ if cars flood streets during World Cup games: planning expert (Global News)

Canada’s World Cup host cities contend with funding uncertainty (The Globe and Mail)

How 3 GTA cities are managing Ontario’s e-scooter pilot program (CBC)

TTC’s CEO says electrical workers are asking for unreasonable wage hikes. Could a weekend strike or lockout be looming? (The Star)

Biidaasige Vista

Craig White — Wed, 13 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Views around Toronto are changing, never more so than of late, it seems, as this photo proves with brand new foreground, middle ground, and background elements that, were it not for the CN Tower, many might mistake for another place. In the foreground, the new south portion of Biidaasige Park is coming together: it will open to the public in some weeks time. In the middle ground: the fully repainted Atlas Crane, itself within another new section of Biidaasige Park yet to open. And, in the background, SkyTower at Pinnacle One Yonge now dominates; the supertall tower set to open in stages over the next year is Canada's tallest building... with Canada's tallest tower still reigning above all just to the left.

Toronto's Downtown skyline provides the backdrop for a view through Biidaasige Park and the Atlas Crane, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor flonicky

This image comes to us courtesy of UrbanToronto Forum contributor flonicky. Want to see your work featured as a 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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39 Wynford Drive Proposal Leads Larger Redevelopment Plan Near Don Valley Station

Anthony Teles — Tue, 12 May 2026 15:50:32 -0400

In Toronto’s Don Mills area, a major redevelopment of semi-coordinated applications spans three adjacent office commercial properties that form what is referred to as the Wynford-Eglinton-Gervais (WEG) lands. An Official Plan Amendment submission has now been made to the City is by Brookfield Residential which has filed plans for 39 Wynford Drive, the first of the three properties, all of which will aim to transform the former office district into a mixed-use community. Proposals are expected soon for redevelopment work for neighbouring properties at 1200 Eglinton Avenue East, and 15 Gervais Drive where imagery of an initial pre-submission concept is already online.

The WEG lands framework is under review through the City’s continuing Don Mills Regeneration Area Study. This first submission's Planning Justification Report for 39 Wynford indicates that Official Plan Amendment and rezoning applications for 15 Gervais Drive and 1200 Eglinton Avenue East are also being prepared so as to advance through the approvals process alongside the 39 Wynford proposal.

Looking southeast to 39 Wynford Drive, designed by Core Architects for Brookfield Residential

39 Wynford Drive, (above), designed by Core Architects, would introduce four mixed-use buildings ranging from 12 to 52 storeys on the northern half of the block. In the southwest quadrant, 15 Gervais Drive, designed by BDP Quandrangle for Resident, was initially envisioned with with towers of 25 and 40 storeys (as per the second image below, but is now envisioned as two 52-storey towers, as per the map immediately below). Two final buildings are envisioned by a third ownership group in the southeast quadrant of the block at what appear to be 38 and 47 storeys.

Block plan, designed by Core Architects for Brookfield Residential

A major component of the proposal is the broader public realm strategy tied to the WEG lands framework. At 39 Wynford, plans call for a new 1,365m² public park at the southeast corner of Wynford and Gervais, connected to a network of walkways, POPS (Privately-Owned Publicly-accessible Space), and mid-block connections extending east toward the Aga Khan Museum/Ismaili Centre lands. Across the larger WEG lands framework, three separate public parks totalling approximately 3,119m² are proposed, including additional open spaces planned for 15 Gervais Drive and 1200 Eglinton Avenue East.

Looking northeast to the initial 25-and 40-storey concept for 15 Gervais Drive, designed by BDP Quadrangle for Resident

The application at 39 Wynford Drive is on that street's south side, east of Gervais Drive. Bousfields has submitted an Official Plan Amendment application to the City of Toronto on behalf of the developer. The proposal would redevelop the site with four mixed-use buildings arranged around a new internal public realm network and public street connection extending east from Gervais Drive. The towers would rise 12 to 52 storeys, ranging from 45m to 169m. The massing strategy proposes generally 25m tower separation distances across the site.

Site plan, designed by Core Architects for Brookfield Residential

The site is currently occupied by a 4-storey office building dating to 1962 and 1967, recently listed on the City’s Heritage Register, and originally known as the Neilsen Building. Designed by the acclaimed Canadian Modernist architect Peter Dickinson and completed by Webb & Menkes after Dickinson's passing, the building is sited amidst extensive surface parking and landscaped grounds along Wynford and Gervais. The proposal's heritage retention strategy, overseen by ERA Architects, is that rather than a complete demolition, to retain and relocate the original 1962 two-storey base closer to Wynford Drive, where it would form the podium element of the 52-storey tower, while removing the upper two storeys from the building's 1967 addition.

Looking south to 39 Wynford Drive with the former Neilsen Building, image retrieved from Google Maps

The Brookfield Residential proposal would introduce 1,245 rental units alongside 464m² of retail and other non-residential space concentrated at grade near the Wynford and Gervais intersection. The unit mix would include 66 studios, 579 one-bedroom units, 434 two-bedroom units, and 166 three-bedroom suites. Gross Floor Area is proposed at 103,488m², including approximately 103,024m² of residential space, resulting in a Floor Space Index of 8.43 times coverage of the 16,194m² lot. A single underground parking level is planned beneath the site, containing 460 vehicular parking spaces, including 440 residential visitor spaces and 20 retail spaces. Bicycle parking would be finalized through a future rezoning application.

On the south half of the site, the existing commercial building at 15 Gervais — proposed to be demolished — likewise shares its lot with surface parking, while the 1200 Eglinton lot has remained vacant since the demolition of a former office building on its land in 2020.

Looking southeast to the current site for 15 Gervais Drive, image retrieved from Google Maps

The lands fall within a Major Transit Station Area as the site is located approximately 105m from the Aga Khan Park & Museum stop on Eglinton Line 5 and roughly 115m from the Don Valley bus terminal at Don Valley station. In the future, the station will become an interchange with Ontario Line 3.

Beyond rapid transit, the area is served by numerous TTC surface routes. Cycling infrastructure includes cycle tracks along Eglinton Avenue East and Ferrand Drive alongside connections to the Don Mills Trail multi-use path.

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

The proposals join several others centred around Don Mills and Eglinton, and also along Wynford. To the southeast, the 15-storey e lofts is currently under construction, while proposals to the southwest include 805 Don Mills Road at 26 and 48 storeys, 770 Don Mills with three towers ranging from 37 to 48 storeys, and 793 Don Mills with four towers planned between 38 and 60 storeys. East of the WEG lands, applications include 123 Wynford Drive at 48 and 52 storeys, 175 Wynford Drive with four towers from 49 to 54 storeys, and 155 St Dennis with four towers ranging from 42 to 56 storeys. To the west, construction continues across Aspen Ridge's Crosstown Community, including the 27-storey Generations, the 39-storey Crosstown Block 6C, and the City's two-storey Don Mills Community Recreation Centre.

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EDITOR'S NOTE: The article has been updated to note the architectural firm for 15 Gervais Drive.

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Geothermal Drilling Begins for 38-Storey Rental Tower at 9 St Dennis

Anthony Teles — Tue, 12 May 2026 13:42:46 -0400

Geothermal drilling is now underway at 9 St Dennis Drive at Don Mills and Eglinton, marking the start of construction activity for a 38-storey purpose-built rental tower from Osmington Gerofsky Development Corp. Designed by architects—Alliance, the project will introduce 474 new rental units to an area largely characterized by older apartment housing stock, situated near Ontario Line 3’s future Flemingdon Park station and the interchange station at Don Valley for the Eglinton Line 5.

The development is planned as a mix of market and affordable rental housing, with suites ranging from studios to three-bedroom layouts. Of the 474 units, 210 are planned as one-bedrooms, alongside 126 two-bedroom units, 90 studios, and 48 three-bedroom suites, with sizes spanning from 282 ft² to 952 ft². Residents will have access to more than 18,000 ft² of indoor and outdoor amenity space, including co-working facilities, a fitness centre, party room, resident lounge, workshop and hobby room, guest suites, and a children’s playroom. A landscaped terrace with BBQ areas will connect to a new three-quarter-acre public park and pedestrian network. The development will feature interiors by Ste Marie and landscape architecture by The MBTW Group. The public realm strategy extends beyond the building itself through direct access to a new public park, tying the development into the broader neighbourhood.

9 St Dennis, designed by architects—Alliance for Osmington Gerofsky Development Corp

The project’s geothermal system forms the core of its sustainability strategy, with 100% of heating and cooling planned to operate through geo-exchange rather than conventional fossil fuel-based systems. Approximately 80% of the building’s domestic hot water demand will also be provided via geo-exchange. For the installation and operation of the geothermal system, OGDC has partnered with Geosource Energy, a company that has delivered hundreds of geothermal systems since 2004. Combined with a high-performance building envelope, improved airtightness, in-suite energy recovery ventilators, and low-flow plumbing fixtures, the building is projected to consume 62% less energy and generate 82% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than a conventional code-compliant residential tower.

9 St Dennis, designed by architects—Alliance for Osmington Gerofsky Development Corp

A view across the site shows several geothermal drilling rigs operating simultaneously as crews continue installing the underground infrastructure that will support the building’s low-emissions mechanical systems. Construction fencing, staging areas, and service equipment now occupy much of the future tower footprint.

Geothermal drilling rigs operating across the construction site, image courtesy of Osmington Gerofsky Development Corp.

Finally, a broader view reveals the scale of the early geothermal and excavation operations now underway. Multiple drill rigs are positioned around the perimeter of an excavation pit partially filled with groundwater, while temporary haul roads, fenced work zones, staging containers, and service equipment organize activity across the property. Stacks of geothermal casing and mechanical support infrastructure are visible throughout the site as crews continue preparing the underground energy network before above-grade construction begins later this year.

Looking south to geothermal drilling and excavation activity, image courtesy of Osmington Gerofsky Development Corp

Full building construction is expected to begin in June, 2026, with occupancy targeted for the first quarter of 2029.

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