Robin MacLennan
Ontario Construction Report staff writer
Toronto city council has approved a rezoning application from the Toronto Community Housing (TCHC) for the final phases of Regent Park’s redevelopment, a project that will replace aging housing and address affordable housing demands by building a mixed-income, mixed-use neighbourhood.
The plan includes 637 new affordable housing units, and another 633 RGI (rent-geared-to-income) replacement units. It also includes 1,976 additional market units, 10,461 sq. m. of commercial space and a new civic square anchored by 2,200 sq. m. public library.
TCHC is working with Tridel Builders Inc.
“The newly approved plan for phases 4 and 5 of the Regent Park revitalization is the product of close engagement and collaboration with the residents of Regent Park,” said Jag Sharma, president and CEO, TCHC. “With this rezoning, we have an opportunity to create homes for hundreds of more families and to meaningfully address the demand for affordable housing in Toronto.
“I look forward to continued partnership with Tridel as we turn this vision into a reality.”
An international team of architects, designers, planners and experts supported the design process, including: Karakusevic Carson Architects, Bousfields Inc., ERA Architects, Monumental, Trans Solar Klima Engineering & JVM Consulting, RWDI and PSF Studio.
Phase 4 and 5 lands are bordered by Gerrard Street and Oak Street to the north and south, and River Street and Dreamers Way to the east and west. They are the last 16 acres on the 69-acre Regent Park site to be redeveloped.
TCHC residents, Regent Park community members, local leaders, subject matter experts and City of Toronto staff provided input and ideas that informed the vision for Phases 4 and 5, creating a design that maximizes the potential for building new homes and amenities. The new development will increase density and revitalize the neighbourhood.
“We look forward to working closely with Toronto Community Housing and the City of Toronto to address the need for housing development across the city,” said Jim Ritchie, president, Tridel. “We are committed to providing innovative and actionable solutions for affordable housing.
“As an industry leading homebuilder, we consider the rezoning application to be a crucial milestone that aligns with our dedication to delivering top-quality, sustainable homes for Toronto’s residents and families,”