A stretch of Toronto is getting a much-needed makeover, thanks to the City's just announced George Street Revitalization project.
On Thursday, the City unveiled the launch of the project, which will see the northernmost block of George Street -- between Dundas Street East and Gerrard Street East -- completely overhauled.
"The George Street Revitalization project when complete will house important services supporting some of our city's most at-risk communities with new shelter beds, long-term care facilities and community services in a world-class facility in the city's downtown east," said Mayor John Tory.
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Through the project, Seaton House men’s shelter, which is currently located on George Street, and its adjacent properties, will be transformed into a new shared facility, providing a dynamic range of housing, programs, and services that would meet the unique and complex needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, as well as vulnerable and elderly individuals in the community.
The project will result in a long-term care home, a transitional living facility, an emergency shelter, affordable housing, and a community hub serving residents of the site and the local neighbourhood.
The project will result in approximately 622,000 square feet of new construction and restored heritage buildings, with some of the proposed features of the development being:
- An emergency shelter program with 100 beds for men experiencing homelessness;
- An innovative 130-bed, all-gender transitional living program for people experiencing homelessness who require more intensive health care and substance abuse support;
- A long-term care home with 378 beds to better meet the needs of formerly homeless, vulnerable and elderly individuals;
- 21 units of affordable housing with supports, and
- A community service hub for program clients as well as members of the surrounding community
The project also includes sidewalk and streetscape improvements -- between Dundas Street East and Gerrard Street East -- as part of a broader public realm plan for George Street. These improvements will link Moss Park to Allan Gardens and reinforce the identity of the Garden District where the revitalization site is located.
"I am thrilled that the next phase of the George Street Revitalization project is launching. A key component of the Downtown East Action Plan, this project will be the catalyst for a more safe and vibrant community for all in the heart of the historic Garden District," Toronto Centre councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam added in the release.
"I am pleased that services in the area, such as the Seaton House men's shelter will be transformed into a shared living facility with specialized care, including public art and an inclusive community hub."
Those who currently live in Seaton House, which is expected to be fully decommissioned by July 2022, will be moved to alternate locations including Scarborough Village Residence at 3306 Kingston Road and Junction Place at 731 Runnymede Road.
The expected construction completion for the revitalization project is Q1-2026.
