St Nicholas Steet Condo Proposal
I'm a resident on St. Nicholas Street and I have to reply to all of those who think our objection is pure NIMBYism.
The fact is that a 44 storey condo tower will result in the destruction of a
19th century planing mill (where logs were cut into wood planks for construction). No the building isn't designated as a heritage building currently. But should that matter? I think this is a peice of Toronto history worth preserving. The Victorian row houses were the original workers cottages for the mill. The histories of these buildings are intrinsically linked - to demolish one is to irrevocably damage the historical significance of the others. I think this is a bit of history worth preserving, particularly at a time when Bay, Bloor & Yonge is filled with high end boutiques, condos and hotels.
Yes, the street is downtown in a highly dense area. But the street itself is not a major thoroughfare - it is practically not much bigger than a lane. It is filled with low rise homes (and some businesses) and is remarkably quiet for being downtown. People stroll, walk their dogs and, in the summer, I've seen children playing and riding their bikes in the middle of the street (under the watchful eye of their parents). Given that we are surrounded by high intensfication, on Yonge, Bay and Bloor, in my view, it is even more important to give all residents in the area a breathing space. Many people in the neighbourhood walk down St. Nicholas as opposed to Bay or Yonge - simply because they like it so much! I've been told this personally many times.
One of the reasons that Toronto is such a great city to live in is its unique neighbourhoods that give the city its character and vibrancy. St Nicholas is one of these neighbourhoods.
So the ultimate question is - intensification but at what cost?
Personally, I think the proposed condo is too a high a cost. For those of you who disagree, please come visit our street.