The provincial government says it's taking a "bold, new approach" to city building by proposing to build several vibrant, transit-oriented communities along the future Ontario Line.
Considering that residents want to live close to transit lines, the province has proposed to build mixed-use, live-work-play communities near the Ontario Line's Exhibition, King-Bathurst, and Queen-Spadina transit stations.
Not only would these new communities bring more jobs and housing closer to transit, but the province says they will also help to increase ridership, reduce congestion, stimulate economic growth, and reduce the cost of building infrastructure for taxpayers.
“Our plan is about more than just expanding public transit. It is about changing our way of life for the better. People want to live near transit, so it only makes sense to integrate housing options, retail, and community amenities as part of the smart transit planning process,” said Kinga Surma, Associate Minister of Transportation (GTA).
Ontario Line/Infrastructure Ontario
Under the proposal, the provincial government wants to transform Exhibition Station into a connected transit hub with new housing, office, and retail space that would support approximately 2,300 jobs.
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Transit riders will be able to connect to GO Transit, TTC services, and the future Ontario Line subway -- making it more convenient to get to this popular destination for sporting events, concerts, and other attractions, as well as the growing Liberty Village community.
Draft concept of the courtyard at the proposed Atlantic Avenue site at Exhibition Station/Infrastructure Ontario
The province says it's also proposing a transit-oriented community at the future Queen-Spadina station that would provide more housing, retail space for businesses, and convenient access to transit, including the TTC streetcar and future Ontario Line service.
Draft concept of the proposed Queen-Spadina Station site/Infrastructure Ontario
At the future King-Bathurst station, the proposal looks to add more housing and office space while retaining heritage buildings and structures, recognizing this vibrant neighbourhood's character.
Draft concept of the proposed King-Bathurst Station site/Infrastructure Ontario
The province says the development proposals for these transit-oriented communities were recently shared with the City of Toronto for review. Once the city review is complete, the province will host engagement with the public, stakeholders, and Indigenous partners beginning this coming winter.
The Ontario Line is part of a multi-level government partnership between the provincial, federal, and municipal governments that is said to be the largest subway expansion in Canadian history. The other projects under the partnership include the three-stop Scarborough Subway Extension, the Yonge North Subway Extension, and the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension.
