[bounded by Atlantic Ave, the Gardiner, Strachan Ave and the Rail Corridor]
This new community was, until recently, one of the City’s thriving industrial neighbourhoods. It is very exciting to be part of its renaissance as a dynamic mixed-use community.
In many cases, historic landmarks are incorporated into the new neighbourhood. Buildings like 37 Hanna Avenue, the Munitions Factory, and the Chapel are protected through heritage designation while many new developments, like the Irwin Toy Factory, reflect the area’s industrial past. Further west, Liberty Village has become a flourishing mixed commercial and industrial neighbourhood.
I am proud to have fought successfully for the inclusion of three new public parks as part of the development agreement – Bill Johnston Park, Liberty Village Park and Central Park. In addition to the creation of these green spaces, I have worked hard to secure as many environmental efficiencies as possible in the new buildings. The installation of solar photovoltaic panels on the roof of the Police Services facility at 9 Hanna Avenue is a great example. On top of these mandates, I have made sure that a maximum number of trees are planted in accordance with new planting protocols, which include irrigation systems, to ensure the trees’ long-term health.
In a tip of the hard hat to the neighbourhood’s industrial heritage and the workers who carried it forward, Lynn Williams Street was named in honour of the first Canadian President of the United Steelworkers in recognition of his fight for worker’s rights at the former Inglis Plant.
I helped establish bike lanes on Strachan Avenue, from Lakeshore Road West to King Street West. In response to a petition and favourable vote from local residents, I also ensured that speed humps were installed on Sudbury Street.
I initiated the reconstruction of the King Street Underpass at the CP tracks with attention to urban design, landscaping, and pedestrian safety issues. I support the effort to link King-Liberty with the neighbourhoods to the north of the rail tracks, and have successfully secured funding for an Environmental Assessment.
Recognizing the need for reconstruction of the CN/CP rail corridor on Strachan Avenue south of King Street West, I established and chair a working group composed of Transportation Services, City Planning, and representatives of the local residents’ association and condominium boards. Our study, now complete, of how best to take on a major upgrade of the Strachan Avenue rail crossing is the first step toward improving traffic flow and pedestrian/bicyclist safety. For more information visit
http://toronto.ca/planning/strachanstudy.htm.
