On September 17, the Alexandra Park community gathered for the reopening of its revitalized multi-sport court. Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto, west of Spadina Avenue between Dundas and Queen Streets, the new court is part of ongoing revitalization efforts transforming the neighbourhood.

From left to right: Sean Baird, President and CEO, Toronto Community Housing; John Tavares, Founder and Director, John Tavares Foundation; Mohsin Khattak, Executive Director, Alexandra Park Community Centre, image courtesy of Tridel

The newly upgraded facility now features a state-of-the-art basketball court, a versatile multi-sport area, and murals that reflect the spirit and diversity of the community. The project was a collaboration between Alexandra Park Community Centre (APCC), Atkinson Housing Co-operative, the John Tavares Foundation, Rogers, Their Opportunity, Time2Play, Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC), and Tridel.

Rogers presented a celebrity basketball tournament, featuring local sports personalities and special appearances by Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares and members of Sportsnet. Youth from the community had the opportunity to hone their skills alongside their sports heroes, engaging in activities led by the charity organization Their Opportunity.

The revitalized multi-sport courtAttendees standing in front of one of the court's murals, image courtesy of Tridel

"Growing up, having access to spaces like this was invaluable to me — not just as an athlete, but as a person," said John Tavares, founder of the John Tavares Foundation. "Courts like this taught me important life lessons — teamwork, discipline, resilience, and, most importantly, the value of community."

The revitalization was in response to the community's call for improved recreational facilities. Tridel and TCHC worked on the courts along with their trades and suppliers. 

"Throughout our 90-year history, Tridel has believed in building strong connections within the neighbourhoods where we build," said Jim Ritchie, President of Tridel. "We’re excited to deliver the fully renovated court, providing a flexible space for a range of sports and activities that serve the diverse interests of this passionate community."

Blue Jays mascot Ace at the grand opening ceremony, image courtesy of Tridel

Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik highlighted the importance of such community-driven projects: "From our big arenas to our local courts, we are a city that builds meaningful community through sport. Alexandra Park showcases this leadership as one of the most vibrant, connected, and growing neighbourhoods in Toronto.”

The APCC, a cornerstone organization for the neighbourhood since 1976, played a major role in bringing the project to fruition. "This redeveloped space will provide a safe and fun environment for all to enjoy over the years," said Mohsin Khattak, Executive Director of APCC. "It supports our vision of offering meaningful recreation and physical activity opportunities for children and youth throughout the community."

Toronto Community Housing, Canada's largest social housing provider, sees the court as an embodiment of what can be achieved through collaboration. "This renovation wouldn't be possible without partners who share the same vision for the community," said Sean Baird, President and CEO of TCHC.

Alexandra Park’s broader revitalization, a joint effort by TCHC and Tridel, aims to rebuild older buildings, deliver new market condominiums, and breathe new life into the community’s amenities. 

Attendees standing in front of one of the court's murals, image courtesy of Tridel

The focus has now shifted to raising funds and securing donations to support ongoing programming for youth in the neighbourhood. Community members and organizations are encouraged to get involved and contribute to the sustained growth and enrichment of Alexandra Park.

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Related Companies:  EQ Building Performance Inc., Jablonsky, Ast and Partners, Janet Rosenberg & Studio, Kramer Design Associates Limited, Peter McCann Architectural Models Inc., Rebar Enterprises Inc, SvN, Tridel, Urban Strategies Inc.