Fort York

[bounded by Bathurst St, Rail Corridos, Strachan Ave and Lake Shore Blvd W]

The area surrounding Historic Fort York is now home to thousands of residents living in new condominium developments.  I have fought to make sure that adequate green space and a respect for the area’s historic significance were incorporated into the planning process for this area.  One of these efforts included working to design June Callwood Park, named after one of Toronto’s most respected and well-loved social advocates.  Another involved creating an entrance to Historic Fort York from Fort York Boulevard.

Additionally, I fought for historically and environmentally sensitive streetscape improvements on Fleet Street.  I chaired both the joint Milano/Toronto Steering Committee, which created the new Piazza at the Princes’ Gate, and the Toronto Inukshuk Committee, which installed a 30-foot tall monument in Inukshuk Park.

As discussed further on, the City’s Commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 presents wonderful opportunities to improve not only Fort York, but the surrounding neighbourhood, as well.  The Bicentennial Steering Committee, which I am proud to be co-chairing, is working on a proposal for the construction of the Fort York Pedestrian Bridge, which is currently undergoing an Environmental Assessment.  Once completed, the bridge will provide an important north-south pedestrian and cycling link for communities north of the lakeshore rail corridor to Fort York and the waterfront.