An important gateway from the Greater Toronto Area into the city, the surrounding Humber Bay Shores community has undergone significant changes in recent years. What was once a largely low-rise strip of motels and industrial buildings is now largely residential, with tall buildings often reaching 60 storeys. A community of residents has taken root, yet the area lacks a commercial and civic heart. In response, the client sought and obtained approval to rezone this 11.5 hectare site into a Regeneration Area which allows for a shift from former industrial uses to a vibrant complete community.
Twenty-nine buildings, ranging in height from 1 to 67 storeys, will shape a network of public spaces anchored by two new public parks (total 1.25 hectares), three squares, largos and groves, pedestrian mid-block connections and a fine-grained internal street network. A covered galleria at the heart of the scheme provides a yearlong destination with a diverse offering of retail, restaurant, office and community amenities that will appeal to residents, workers and vistors alike. One of the largest developments underway in a fast-changing city, its picturesque urban design aspires to create a lasting neighbourhood that people will love.
The masterplan envisions a thriving mixed-use neighbourhood anchored by a new multi-modal transit hub (including a new Park Lawn GO Train Station) with new routes that knit the development into the neighbouring communities. Built over six phases the development will deliver significant employment and retail uses, as well as approximately 7,500 new homes with a range of unit sizes, tenures and affordability including a commitment to provide 10% of all units as affordable rental housing. A host of community uses will be located within the masterplan site, including a community recreation centre, two childcare centres, community agency space, a public library and space for two elementary schools.
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