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Timestamp: 2017-08-18 20:10:51
Document Index: 501082868

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 2', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art 2', 'art 1', 'art 2', 'art 1', 'art 2', 'art 3', 'art 4', 'art 5']

Materials - Eglinton Connects - Urban Design | City of Toronto
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This tab includes Staff Reports, Consultation Materials, Studies and Maps, Links, Videos, Questions and Answers. Click one of the tabs or 'select a subtopic' below to reveal the relevant material.
Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) February Update
Eglinton Connects Official Plan and Zoning By-law Appeals
The OMB has issued a decision with respect to the appeals by Leaside Property Owners Association (LPOA).
An OMB pre-hearing conference pertaining to the appeals by Terranata Developments Inc. with respect to 346-356 Eglinton Avenue West has been set for July 6, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. at the Board's offices at 655 Bay St, 16th floor, Toronto. A hearing date has not yet been established.
Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) December Update
An OMB pre-hearing conference pertaining to the appeals by Terranata Developments Inc. with respect to 346-356 Eglinton Avenue West has been set for February 13, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at the Board's offices at 655 Bay St, 16th floor, Toronto. A hearing date has not yet been established.
Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) November Status Update (2)
The OMB hearing with respect to the appeals by Leaside Property Owners Association (LPOA) will now be held on December 6, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. at the Board's offices at 655 Bay St., 16th floor, Toronto. Updated matters pertaining to the appeals by Terranata Developments Inc. with respect to 346-356 Eglinton Avenue West will also be heard at this hearing. This hearing is scheduled to last for 1 day.
Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) November Status Update
An OMB hearing on a proposed Terms of Settlement between the City of Toronto and RioCan Holdings (Sunnybrook) Inc. with respect to 660 Eglinton Avenue East will be held on November 28, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. at the Board's offices at 655 Bay St., 16th floor, Toronto.
An OMB hearing with respect to the appeals by Leaside Property Owners Association (LPOA) will be held starting [see update above], 2016, at 10:00 a.m. at the Board's offices at 655 Bay St., 16th floor, Toronto. Updated matters pertaining to the appeals by Terranata Developments Inc. with respect to 346-356 Eglinton Avenue West will also be heard at this hearing. This hearing is scheduled to last for 3 days.
Pre-hearing conferences were held on June 30, 2015, November 23, 2015, January 22, 2016, July 26, 2016, October 12, 2016, and November 14, 2016. The procedural order for the hearings, status of parties and participants, and list of planning issues to be dealt with at the hearings were established at these pre-hearing conferences.
Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) Status Update:
Pre-hearing conferences were held on June 30, 2015, November 23, 2015, January 22, 2016, July 26, 2016, and October 12, 2016. An additional OMB pre-hearing conference is set for November 14, 2016 at 10:00 a.m at the Board's offices at 655 Bay St, 16th floor, Toronto. A list of issues will be finalized by the parties involved.
An OMB hearing is set for November 21, 2016, and could last for 3 weeks.
Posted May 12, 2016, updated August 22, 2016
An OMB pre-hearing conference was set for July 26, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at the Board's offices at 655 Bay St, 16th floor, Toronto. An additional OMB pre-hearing conference is set for October 12, 2016 at 10:00 a.m at the same location. The list of issues will be finalized by the parties involved.
Posted December 4, 2015 Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) Status Update:
Some property owners and community groups have appealed certain aspects of the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-laws approved by City Council in 2014. Two pre-hearing conferences have been held by the OMB to identify parties and define the issues. A further pre-hearing conference will be held in January 2016. The hearing itself will take place in May 2016. For more information please contact Edna Cuvin, Manager, City Planning Division at ecuvin@toronto.ca.
If you need assistance reading downloaded content, this can be arranged by calling Edna Cuvin at 416-338-2176 or emailing ecuvin@toronto.ca
Notice: Posted September 17, 2014 The final report for the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment is now available for a 30 day review. View the Notice of Completion and the final report.
You are on: Staff Reports
Reports to Council, the Planning and Growth Management Committee, or the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee
Eglinton Connects Planning Study - Phase 1 (Part 2) Implementation Report - August 7, 2014
Related decision - August 7, 2014
Notice of passing - By-Law No. 1030-2014
Notice of passing - By-Law No. 1031-2014
Eglinton Connects Planning Study - Phase 1 (Part 1) Implementation Report - June 19, 2014
Related decision - June 19, 2014
Notice of adoption - July 24, 2014
Eglinton Connects Planning Study - Final Directions Report - April 10, 2014
Eglinton Connects Planning Study Volume 1: Background & Analysis (See "Studies & Maps" tab)
Eglinton Connects Planning Study Volume 2: The Plan - Recommendations & Implementation Strategies (See "Studies & Maps" tab)
Note about the Comprehensive Map ('Mega Map'): The Comprehensive Map is the result of modelling, research, and public input. It incorporates the streetscape plan, mid-rise buildings testing model (including proposed building heights, and location of Neighbourhood Transition Areas), heritage resources, existing building outlines, the location of Character Areas, new Crosstown LRT infrastructure (stations, structures), connections to ravines, and Business Improvement Areas. The map is quite detailed, and you can view it right down to the individual property level. You may want to view it in order to get a sense of what the future of buildings and the street might look like in your area. However, this map is simply a study and exercise, and actual recommendations for a particular area will be (or are) outlined in Staff Reports. If you need assistance viewing this map, please contact Marianne Wertepny, who will arrange to assist you. You can call her at 416-392-8120 or email her at mwertep@toronto.ca
The Comprehensive Map ('Mega Map') [IMPORTANT: please note that the 'Neighbourhood Transition Area' information contained on this map has been superceded by Recommendations adopted by Planning and Growth Committee report, dated June 19, 2014]
Jane to Keele (3 pages)
Caledonia to Allen (3 pages)
Bathurst to Yonge (3 pages)
Mt Pleasant to Laird (3 pages)
Brentcliffe to Wynford (4 pages)
Bermondsey to Kennedy (4 pages)
Related decision - May 6, 2014
Eglinton Connects - Environmental Assessment Study March 25, 2014
Metrolinx Rapid Transit Program - Allocation of the Public Realm Amount April 4, 2014
Eglinton Planning Study Status Report No 2. - June 3, 2013
Related decision - June 20, 2013
Eglinton Planning Study Status Report No. 1 - October 12, 2012
Staff Report (2011-2012 Avenue Studies-Request for Direction Report)
Planning & Growth Management Committee Authority
NOTE: The studies and maps on this page are research, including significant input from consultants, to inform recommendations. Please read the Staff Reports and related decisions for information on those elements that were brought forward and/or adopted by Council. As research, note that some items marked 'draft' may or may not differ from future final versions.
Planning Study Executive Summary
The underlined text below links to PDFs of the Executive Summary.
Eglinton Connects Planning Study Executive Summary - With Graphics
Eglinton Connects Planning Study Executive Summary - Text-Only
Volume 2: Recommendations and Implementation Strategies
The underlined text below links to PDFs, all of which are 10mb or less in size.
Volume 2 Executive Summary with Graphics
Volume 2 Executive Summary Text-Only
Volume 2: The Plan - Recommendations and Implementation Strategies (The Plan), is the companion to Volume 1: Background and Analysis, which was completed in July 2013. The Plan includes 21 recommendations for Travelling, Greening and Building Eglinton, along with short- and long-term implementation strategies. Together, these two volumes of the Eglinton Connects Study are intended to guide the City’s policies for the revitalization of Eglinton Avenue over time, in tandem with the development of Metrolinx’s Crosstown LRT project.
1. Introduction - Full Version with graphics
1. Introduction - Text-Only
The seven recommendations for Travelling Eglinton deal with how Eglinton can become a "Complete Street", including consideration of sidewalks, cycling lanes, travel lanes, parking, rear lanes, and streetscape elements. The Travelling Eglinton recommendations were developed through the Environmental Assessment (EA) process, in coordination with the other major themes of the Study: Greening and Building. The EA was carried out for the segment of Eglinton Avenue where the LRT is underground – generally from Black Creek Drive to Brentcliffe Road. Another important outcome of Travelling recommendations is the Streetscape Plan, which shows the recommendations within the proposed right-of-way, including the road and sidewalk, as well as opportunities for new open spaces, from Jane Street to Kennedy Road.
2a. Recommendations 1-7: Travelling - Full Version with Graphics
2a. Recommendations 1-7: Travelling - Text-Only
The seven recommendations for Greening Eglinton provide guidance for the introduction of landscape elements (like great trees) and green networks on Eglinton Avenue and improved connectivity between Eglinton and other trail and open space systems. Eglinton is embedded in the natural landscape of the City, and the public realm benefits significantly from the open spaces, parks, naturalized areas and urban plazas that line it. Greening is the interface between the public and private realms - equally part of the development of new buildings and public facilities, and the streetscape, urban squares, plazas, parks and transit infrastructure. Greening also considers the importance of burying hydro, green transit infrastructure and planning a public art program.
2b. Recommendations 8-14: Greening - Full Version with Graphics
2b. Recommendations 8-14: Greening - Text-Only
The seven recommendations for Building Eglinton provide guidance for the incremental redevelopment and intensification of significant portions of Eglinton Avenue. Eglinton will continue to act as the main street and hub for the thousands of people who live, work and travel along Eglinton. The LRT investment calls for the intensification of Eglinton Avenue to support the objectives of transit-supportive development. Expected growth along Eglinton Avenue should be accommodated primarily in a mid-rise form (generally 4-11 storeys), where appropriate. Opportunities also exist for low-rise buildings (generally 4 or fewer storeys) in certain areas and tall buildings (generally greater than 11 storeys) within Focus Area s and at select major intersections. IMPORTANT: please note that the 'Neighbourhood Transition Area' information contained in this section of the study has been superceded by Recommendations adopted by Planning and Growth Committee report, dated June 19, 2014
2c. Recommendations 15-21: Building - Full Version with Graphics
2c. Recommendations 15-12: Building - Text-Only
The implementation section outlines implementation measures for The Plan, and identifies short-term actions. Future monitoring of The Plan is also discussed.
3. Implementation - Full Version with Graphics
3. Implementation - Text-Only
Note about the Comprehensive Map ('Mega Map'): The Comprehensive Map is the result of modelling, research, and public input. It incorporates the streetscape plan, mid-rise buildings testing model (including proposed building heights, and location of Neighbourhood Transition Areas), heritage resources, existing building outlines, the location of Character Areas, new Crosstown LRT infrastructure (stations, structures), connections to ravines, and Business Improvement Areas. The map is quite detailed, and you can view it right down to the individual property level. You may want to view it in order to get a sense of what the future of buildings and the street might look like in your area. However, this map is simply a study and exercise, and actual recommendations for a particular area will be (or are) outlined in Staff Reports.
4. Comprehensive Map [IMPORTANT: please note that the 'Neighbourhood Transition Area' information contained on this map has been superceded by Recommendations adopted by Planning and Growth Committee report, dated June 19, 2014]
4a. Jane to Keele (3 pages)
4b. Caledonia to Allen (3 pages)
4c. Bathurst to Yonge (3 pages)
4d. Mt Pleasant to Laird (3 pages)
4e. Brentcliffe to Wynford (4 pages)
4f. Bermondsey to Kennedy (4 pages)
Appendix A: Environmental Study Report
See "Environmental Assessment" below.
Appendix B: Consultation Process Report
Appendix B is identical to the "December 2013 Draft Final Consultation Summary" under the "Consultations" tab.
Appendix C: Streetscape Plan
The Streetscape Plan illustrates the proposed arrangement of the right-of-way elements, including the road layout, bicycle infrastructure, pedestrian environment, and public realm elements (such as street trees, and street furniture zone). The Plan covers the area of Eglinton Avenue between Jane Street and Kennedy Road. The Streetscape Plan incorporates the functional road layout resulting from the preferred design of the Eglinton Avenue Environmental Assessment (EA) between Black Creek Road and Brentcliffe Road. The Plan is quite detailed, and you may want to view the Plan in order to understand the proposed street layout in your location of interest. If you need assistance viewing this Plan, please contact Marianne Wertepny, who will arrange to assist you. You can call her at 416-392-8120 or email her at mwertep@toronto.ca
Note: An earlier version of the Streetscape Plan posted prior to August 25, 2014 contained minor technical errors, which are corrected in the version below
Jane Street to past Allen Road
Bathurst Street to the Don Valley Parkway
Don Valley Parkway to Kennedy Road
Cross Sections and Technical Drawings
Appendix D: Avenues and Mid-Rise Buildings Travel Survey
This appendix includes results of the Avenues and Mid-Rise Buildings Travel Survey. The survey was undertaken among residents of mid-rise buildings along Toronto's Official Plan identified Avenues. The survey was undertaken to examine transportation trends, and to provide statistical evidence to guide the development of any new policy or regulations.
Avenues and Mid-Rise Buildings Travel Survey
Appendix E: Green Trackway Research
The green trackway research document contains information on precedents for green trackways around the world (i.e. those trackways with living green plant material). Location of precedents, including cold-climate locations, are included in the document, along with infomation on maintenance, drainage, plant material types, and construction styles. If you need assistance viewing this appendix, please contact Marianne Wertepny, who will arrange to assist you. You can call her at 416-392-8120 or email her at mwertep@toronto.ca
Green Trackway Precedents Research
Appendix F: Planning Objectives and Directions for Focus Areas and Mobility Hubs
This appendix contains general recommendations for the future development of the Focus Areas and Mobility Hubs. For Focus Areas, this appendix incldues a description of each area, principles and objectives, demonstration plans in both plan-view and 3D, and high-level Community Services and Facilities strategies. Next steps are also included. For Mobility Hubs, this section contains a summary of each Mobility Hub Study, including the long term vision for the Mt Dennis Mobility Hub, and initial concepts for the Kennedy Mobility Hub Study, which is still underway. If you need assistance viewing this appendix, please contact Marianne Wertepny, who will arrange to assist you. You can call her at 416-392-8120 or email her at mwertep@toronto.ca
Due to its size, this appendix was split into three parts, each one a PDF less than 10mb in size:
West Side, Dufferin, and Bayview
Laird, Don Mills, and the Golden Mile
Mobility Hubs (Mt Dennis, and Kennedy)
Appendix G: Focus Areas - Community Services and Facilities Strategy
Community Services and Facilities Strategy
Appendix H: Comprehensive Map [IMPORTANT: please note that the 'Neighbourhood Transition Area' information contained on this map has been superceded by Recommendations adopted by Planning and Growth Committee report, dated June 19, 2014]
Jane to Keele
Mt Pleasant to Laird
Brentcliffe to Wynford
Bermondsey to Kennedy
Final version posted September 17, 2014
Link to Eglinton Connects Environmental Assessment - Notice of Completion.
For the full Environmental Study Report (ESR) Please see Eglinton Connects Transportation Study (Class EA) - Final Report (link to another City of Toronto page).
An Environmental Assessment was conducted for Eglinton Avenue approximately between Black Creek Drive and Brentcliffe Road to determine the preferred arrangement of the right-of-way at the surface, where the Crosstown LRT runs underground. This includes the functional road layout, cycling infrastructure, sidewalk zones, and public realm elements. The Environmental Study Report (ESR) includes an analysis of existing and future conditions, problem and opportunity statement, evaluation of planning and design solutions, description of the preferred design, a description of public and stakeholder consultation, and a discussion of impacts, mitigation measures, monitoring, and future commitments.
Appendices list:
All appendices are available here.
A: Traffic Study
B: Utility Measures
C: Streetscape Plan
D: Preliminary Construction Cost Estimate
E: Consultation Process Report
Volume 1: Background and Analysis
Executive Summary Web Version - on external site.
1. Eglinton Story
2. Study Basics
6. People and Jobs
7. Community Services and Facilities
8.1 Mid-Rise
8.3 Station Areas
Appendix A – Heritage (Main Body)
Appendix A – Heritage (Supplement)
Appendix B – Current Development Applications
Appendix C – CS&F Inventory
Appendix D – Street Cross Section Workshop Summary – Part 1
Appendix D – Street Cross Section Workshop Summary – Part 2
Appendix E -- Pedestrian and Cyclist Count Program Summary
Click on any of the following headings below for information, summaries, display panels, presentations, and results of previous consultations.
May 2014 - Phase 1 Implementation Measures
The Eglinton Connects Plan was approved at City Council on May 6, 2014. The next step is to make this plan happen, through implementation measures. Proposed Phase 1 implementation measures were presented at public consultations on May 12 and 15, 2014. Materials from these consultations are as below:
Panels - part 1
Panels - part 2
December 2013 - Draft Final Consultation Summary
More than 60 consultation events were held over the course of two years and four phases of the Eglinton Connects Planning Study. The Study Area traverses 12 Wards across the 19km long Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit (LRT) line. Combined, over 5000 people participated in the Study and helped shape the future of Eglinton. Below is a draft summary consultation report, and appendices.
DRAFT Final Consultation Summary Report
DRAFT Appendices Part 1 - Meeting Notices
DRAFT Appendices Part 2 - Meeting Materials
DRAFT Appendices Part 3 - Feedback Summaries - February 2013
DRAFT Appendices Part 4 - Feedback Summaries - February 2013 Continued, Ipsos Reid Survey, and May/June 2013
DRAFT Appendices Part 5 - May/June 2013 Continued, October 2013, and Environmental Assessment Correspondence
October 2013 - Consultation Summary Report
Approximately 400 people participated and engaged in our October 2013 open houses. A further 698 more took the related survey either online, or at one of the open houses. You can read about the feedback, and results from these consultations in the summary report below.
Consultation Summary Report Appendix
October 2013 - Refining Plans and Implementation Strategy (Includes the 'Mega Map')
Open Houses were held on October 7, 8, and 9 to present the Planning Study recommendations, and to seek feedback in refining these recommendations. There were 20 recommendations listed on panels presented at the consultations, which you can download below.
Implementation (Recommendation 20)
Travelling (Environmental Assessment Components)
A 40 metre long 'mega map' was also presented as part of the Open Houses, which mapped out the recommendations from Jane Street to Kennedy Road. You can view this map in sections, as listed below.
Maps [IMPORTANT: please note that this is an older version of the map, which is superceded an April 2014 version under 'Studies and Maps']
Caledonia to Dufferin
Avenue to Mt Pleasant
Bayview to Brentcliffe
Leslie to Ferrand
Victoria Park to Birchmount
Ionview to Kennedy
May/June 2013 - Consultation Summary Report
Over 400 people participated and engaged in our May/June 2013 consultation series. A further 807 more took the related survey either online, or at one of the consultation sessions. You can read about the feedback, results, and new ideas that emerged from these consultations in the summary report below. These are being considered in the Eglinton Connects Study.
Consultation Summary Report - May/June
Consultation Summary Report - May/June Appendices
May/June 2013 - Evaluating and Selecting Options
On May 27 and 28, and June 4 2013, public consultations were held, and workshops conducted to evaluate and select from the emerging options for Eglinton's future. This included options for built form along the street, and at the six 'Focus Areas', as well as for the design of the street itself.
These consultations built on the professional work of the City and consultant staff, and incorporated feedback from previous consultation sessions. As with previous sessions, the public consultation and workshops were structured by the three themes of Building, Travelling, and Greening Eglinton.
Check out the Discussion Guide and Agenda first, and then view the panels from the consultations.
Materials from the consultations are available here:
Panels from the consultations:
March 2013 - Consultation Summary Report
Over 500 people participated and engaged in our February consultation series. Hundreds more took our second survey. The results of the survey and consultation are important to our work and will be considered in developing options. A report summarizes the consultations, and is available for download below:
February 2013 - Ideas and Workshops for a Future Eglinton
On February 19, 26, and 28 City Planning hosted Local Business Meetings (mornings), and Public Workshops (evenings) where ideas for a future Eglinton were displayed and discussed. In addition, an invite-only stakeholder workshop was held on the evening of February 25. Representatives from Metrolinx were present at all meetings, and displayed preliminary designs for stations for their Eglinton Crosstown LRT project.
Participants were encouraged to weigh-in on ideas for Eglinton's future with the coming Metrolinx investment in transit infrastructure. Three main topics of Greening, Building, and Travelling Eglinton were examined via three key questions:
How to encourage significant mixed-use growth through well-designed, right-sized buildings that are predominantly mid rise in scale
How to create a beautiful, vibrant public realm and streetscape that offers a high quality of life for neighbourhoods as well as the many people who will live, work, and shop on Eglinton
How on-street uses can interact with the new Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit (LRT) stops and stations
Panels, presentations, and display material from the City of Toronto's Eglinton Connects Planning Study are displayed below. Note that some are large files. To view materials from Metrolinx' Crosstown LRT project, please visit their website or contact them.
View or Download Consultation Materials
Orientation Guide (consultation handout)
Vision and Opportunities Panels
Travelling Eglinton and Environmental Assessment (warning: large file at 10MB)
Focus Areas (warning: large file at 14MB)
Link to a Prezi of Vision and Opportunities for Eglinton
December 2012 - Survey 1: Reviewing May 2012 Feedback
A survey based on feedback from the May 2012 consultation sessions was made available online for 4 weeks from November 14 to December 12, and at our November 2012 public consultation event. Results of the survey are being evaluated, and will be considered throughout the study. Initial results are available to view here.
November 2012 - Designing the Future of Eglinton
On November 28, 2012 City Planning co-hosted a consultation event intended to offer a glimpse of how light rail transit (LRT) is used in other places for city building purposes. Looking at other places will help us understand the possibilities for designing a refreshed Eglinton in conjunction with rapid transit. The event was held at the North Toronto Collegiate near Yonge and Eglinton, was attended by hundreds, resulted in news stories on blogs and in major newspapers, and made the rounds on social media platforms.
A keynote talk was provided by internationally renowned transit and city building expert Antoine Grumbach, designer of Paris' Le Tramway and growth strategies for Paris and Moscow. Mr Grumbach emphasised the need to use transit investment for public realm improvement and city building opportunities. He also encouraged more thought and discussion of how the LRT on Eglinton connects at three scales - the region, the city, and the local areas. Antoine was introduced by Chief Planner Jennifer Keesmaat, and the Crosstown Collaborative team, managed by John van Nostrand and Cal Brook. Questions of Antoine began with Leslie Woo, Vice President of Policy Planning and Innovation at Metrolinx, Michael Wheeler of community organization Eglinton 2020, and landscape architect Brad Cudmore.
The event encouraged participation through discussion, interactive maps and display boards, video recordings of participants, and a survey based on results of the May consultation (available on paper or online).
Click each of the following to download the boards or presentation:
Display boards 1.
Display boards 2.
Presentation by Antoine Grumbach (warning: large file).
Click below to link to a Prezi:
Aerial view of Eglinton.
Collage of an Eglinton section.
May 2012 Consultation
City Planning held three Community Consultation Meetings in May 2012 to introduce the objectives of the study, discuss guiding principles and give the communities an opportunity to provide feedback. Meetings were held at the Fairbank Memorial Community Centre on May 17, 2012, the Hub at Victoria Village on May 22, 2012, and the Northern District Library on May 24, 2012.
Comments, suggestions and questions were received on all aspects of built form, land use, and how the street and its sidewalks should function after the LRT is constructed. This input is being used in the development of a vision and principles for the study. The same material was presented at all three community consultation meetings. A summary of the comments received to date is available here.
Click below to download materials from the consultations:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are included in the drop-down tables below.
What is the purpose of the EGLINTONconnects Study?
Why is the EGLINTONconnects Study being done now?
What are the boundaries of the EGLINTIONconnects Study area?
Are there exceptions to the Study area?
What is the timing for the EGLINTONconnects Study?
What will be the outcome of the EGLINTONconnects Study?
How can I be involved in the EGLINTONconnects Study?
The purpose of the study is to work with the public and stakeholders to develop a vision for Eglinton Avenue that will inform future growth and change.
Greening Eglinton, including the future public right-of-way (the travelled portion of the road, sidewalks, and boulevard),
Building Eglinton, with consideration for the future land uses and built form along the corridor, and
Travelling Eglinton, through coordination of the vision for the future of Eglinton with rapid transit infrastructure.
The creation of the vision will be informed by a number of factors, including existing policy direction, previous public consultation, existing conditions and context, and future growth catalysts (such as the upcoming Eglinton Avenue Light Rail Transit line).
Implementation will occur through amendments to the Official Plan where necessary, new zoning, and a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment, and other mechanisms if necessary.
The Study is being done because Toronto is growing, and we need to guide this growth. The City of Toronto's City Planning Division conducts similar area or Avenue studies across the city based on priority. Eglinton Avenue is being studied now to encourage development and anticipate the changes that will occur as a result of the significant new transit investment. The Study aims to be proactive in guiding this future change to offer the greatest possible collective benefit for the communities along Eglinton and for the City of Toronto.
What are the boundaries of the EGLINTONconnects Study area?
Generally, the Study area includes Eglinton Avenue from Jane Street to Kennedy subway station, as well as up to 800 metres from each rapid transit stop. However, many components of the Study are smaller and more geographically specific. For example, directions for future built form will generally be restricted to those properties fronting onto Eglinton, as well as one property beyond that (with some exceptions, primarily at Study 'focus areas').
Yes. There are three main exceptions to the Study area: Yonge-Eglinton, the Kennedy 'mobility hub', and the Mt Dennis 'mobility hub'. These areas are subject to concurrent and related studies. Note that the Study is being conducted in tandem with Metrolinx's Crosstown LRT station design process.
What is the timing for EGLINTONconnects Study?
The Study began in Spring 2012 and is expected to be complete by the Spring of 2014. Opportunities for involvement are offered through much of the study. Visit the 'Get Involved' tab for dates, times, and information on how to get involved.
The Study team aims to develop policies and directions to grow and evolve the communities along Eglinton Avenue. This includes development of new zoning bylaws, built form guidance, streetscape right-of-way decisions, and public realm plans. The latter two items will be informed by the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment.
Your involvement is important to the success of the Study. Recognizing this, many opportunities and styles of involvement are built into the Study timeline. These include stakeholder and public consultations, surveys, workshops, discussion guides, interactive display boards, and more! Of course, you can always contact us directly by sending us an email or letter, or leaving your comments on our hotline. Visit the 'Get Involved' and 'Contact' pages for details.
What is a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment? Why is a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment needed?
How does the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment fit within the EGLINTONconnects Study?
What are the boundaries of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment?
A Municipal Class Environmental Assessment is a streamlined Environmental Assessment process for projects that have predictable and manageable environmental effects. This Assessment is required due to the expected changes to the streetscape and road configurations that may take place along Eglinton. An Environmental Assessment was completed for the LRT in 2010, but did not consider any modifications to the roadway in the underground portion of the line.
The Environmental Assessment is required by the provincial Environmental Assessment Act, and fits into the transportation, public realm, and streetscape component (number of traffic lanes, turning lanes, bike facilities, sidewalks, street trees, etc) of the Study.
The Municipal Class Environmental Assessment being undertaken by the EGLINTONconnects team and covers the portion of Eglinton Avenue where the LRT will run underground. The boundaries are generally from Black Creek Drive in the west to Brentcliffe Road in the east.
Transportation Study FAQs
Which section of Eglinton Avenue does the Transportation Study cover?
How far north and south of each intersection are being studied for possible changes?
What are the new proposed street configuations?
Why are there only 3 lanes proposed between Avenue Road and Mount Pleasant, and to what effect?
What are the planned changes to Eglinton Avenue where the LRT will be at the surface e.g. east of Brentcliffe Road?
Where are the bus/carpool lanes now? Where might they be removed?
How will the intersection of Eglinton Avenue and Allen Road be dealt with?
How is parking along Eglinton going to be changed as a result of this proposal?
How will traffic flow in the future on Eglinton as a result of this proposal?
Will this proposal make it more difficult to travel across Toronto using Eglinton?
Will narrowing on Eglinton encourage more vehicles to travel on neighbouring streets, i.e. traffic infiltration in to the neighbourhoods?
How will the protected bike lane (cycle track) work at sidewalk level (e.g. putting out garbage, snow removal, conflict with pedestrians)?
Is it possible to change the plan for the bike lane east of Laird to also be a protected cycle track?
Will the hydro wires get buried as part of this project?
How will the new right-of-way design get implemented? E.g. will the roadway be narrowed and a continuous bike lane added as soon as the LRT is completed?
After the LRT is running, will there still be some TTC bus service on Eglinton Avenue?
What kind of traffic disruptions should we expect during LRT construction?
The Transportation Study for the surface roadway is in the section where the Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit (LRT) line will be underground. Currently, Metrolinx plans for the LRT to run underground for 10km between Black Creek Drive and Brentcliffe Road. The rest of Eglinton Avenue, where the LRT will be at the surface, was designed, reviewed and decided within TTC's 2010 Eglinton Crosstown LRT study.
While this study will be considering conditions and potential impacts as far south as St. Clair Avenue and as far north as Lawrence Avenue, the study is focused primarily on potential changes to Eglinton Avenue itself.
As an outcome of the study there may be recommended changes beyond Eglinton Avenue, (e.g. improving north south connections) but these would need to be approved in a separate City process, including opportunities for public input.
What are the new proposed street configurations?
In general the Transportation Study includes the following recommendations:
• Four general traffic lanes for the majority of Eglinton, with on street parking similar to what exists today
• For Avenue to Mt. Pleasant, where the volume of traffic is lower, two general traffic lanes plus a left turn lane, with dedicated on-street parking in lay-by spaces
• A continuous protected bike lane along Eglinton, from Black Creek to Brentcliffe (standard bike lanes are already approved east to Kennedy)
• Wider sidewalks and room for big trees, benches and patios.
For more details see the Eglinton Connects Volume 2 report presented in April 2014, and further information on the Materials web page.
This roadway layout has been designed with both the Eglinton vision and local objectives in mind. Yonge-Eglinton is a designated Centre with very high pedestrian volumes, excellent public transit access, and an active retail strip. Objectives and design elements include beautification through large street trees, wide sidewalks with patios and public seating, retail supported by 24/7 lay-by parking. Segment D, between Avenue Road and Mount Pleasant, also has the lowest traffic volumes on Eglinton. For these reasons, a three-lane cross-section is being recommended, along with lay-by parking. The parking arrangement allows for permanent spaces outside the travel lanes, and the narrower roadway allows for wider sidewalks and large trees. Each intersection has been evaluated to ensure that the number of through lanes and turn lanes provided is appropriate based on existing and expected travel patterns. The additional centre lane provides opportunities for left turns and for flexibility in the event of unexpected traffic obstructions, and will provide access to emergency vehicles.
What are the planned changes to Eglinton Avenue where the LRT will be at the surface e.g. east of Don Mills?
This area is outside of the 2012 Transportation Study area. As defined in the TTC's 2010 Eglinton Crosstown LRT study, the street cross section east of Brentcliffe Road will include two traffic lanes in each direction, bike lanes and the dedicated transit lanes in the middle (see panel #3). With the addition of the dedicated transitway, left turns to and from minor streets and access to driveways across the transit right-of-way will not be permitted, and motorists will instead proceed to an appropriate traffic signal to turn left or make a U-turn.
Within the study area, there are several segments totalling approximately 8 km of Bus/Taxi lanes in the eastbound direction, and 4 km westbound. In addition, there is a segment of peak period high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes in each direction for 11 km between Leslie Street and Kingston Road. See panel #8 for a map of the bus/car pool lanes.
The LRT line will reduce the need for buses to operate on Eglinton Avenue, allowing for the reallocation of the road space currently used by bus lanes. The HOV lanes between Brentcliffe Road and Kennedy Station will be reallocated to general traffic in order to make room in the median for the surface LRT line (as shown in the 2010 Eglinton Crosstown LRT EA). This study will determine, based on bus routing needs and other right-of-way considerations, where we will retain or removed HOV and bus lanes between Black Creek Drive and Brentcliffe Road.
The current lane configuration near Allen Road, including the exclusive left-turn lane for buses entering the Eglinton West subway station, will remain until recommendations are developed under a separate Allen Road study. See 'How will the intersection of Eglinton Avenue and Allen Road be dealt with?' below.
A separate preliminary study is being conducted for the entire length of Allen Road. If the continuation of this Allen Road study (as an Environmental Assessment) is approved by Council, it would address specific recommended changes. We are proceeding with the assumption that we need to protect for a wide range of possible future conditions. Learn more at: www.toronto.ca/allenrdstudy/
For most of Eglinton, the current arrangement of parking in the curb lanes outside of rush hours will continue. For the section between Avenue Road and Mount Pleasant, parking will be in lay-by spaces outside of the travel lanes, and available at all times. The total number of on-street spaces will be maintained, although some may shift locations slightly.
How will traffic flow along Eglinton as a result of this proposal?
The recommended plan has been developed through an evaluation process that has included a traffic analysis. The number of buses will decrease significantly after the Crosstown LRT line opens, mostly eliminating the need for an exclusive bus lane. Over the majority of Eglinton Avenue, four lanes are being recommended, generally the same capacity for general traffic that exists today. In the short central section of Eglinton (between Avenue and Mount Pleasant), traffic volumes are lower and will be accommodated with two lanes and a centre lane used primarily for left turns. Additional dedicated turn lanes and some turn restrictions are being recommended at key intersections, and the roadway will continue to function much as it does today (excluding LRT construction-related traffic). East of Brentcliffe Road, the roadway configuration was determined in the 2010 Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit Environmental Assessment. Following the current study, a more detailed traffic study will be conducted to determine how to optimize the recommended configuration, such as with turn restrictions to reduce neighbourhood traffic infiltration in the central section, or with a new road network in the Laird and Golden Mile Focus Areas.
Current traffic on Eglinton typically follows two patterns: either short, local trips, or longer trips using short sections of Eglinton to access Highway 400, Allen Road, or the Don Valley Parkway. The proposed plan continues to accommodate these different types of trips, with higher capacity in the sections used for longer-distance trips. As is the case today, most long trips across the City will be accommodated by highways, such as Highway 401.
Part of the traffic analysis done on Eglinton so far has looked at the extent of traffic diversion to alternate routes. While increased traffic on neighbourhood streets is expected to be modest and primarily on collector roads, Eglinton Connects will be followed by a more detailed traffic study in order to determine the best ways to mitigate this impact, particularly in the central section of Eglinton.
The bike lane has been raised to sidewalk level to provide a comfortable space for cyclists to use, separated from motor vehicle traffic. For garbage collection, materials put out by businesses or residents would be placed either at the curb or in the tree zone. The bike lanes would be cleared of snow, as would the roadway and the sidewalks, and there is an area for snow storage identified in the recommended cross-section. In all cases, there are also separate spaces for cyclists and pedestrians, separated by either trees or a furniture zone and strip of paving stones.
The Eglinton Connects planning study is recommending that the bike lanes east of Laird Drive should be buffered from the adjacent traffic lanes in some manner. The environmental assessment completed in 2010 for the Eglinton Crosstown LRT recommended that road-level painted bike lanes should be provided, partly because they would allow traffic to pull over into the bike lane to let emergency vehicles bypass traffic during periods of congestion. Any buffer zone would have to be flush with the roadway or otherwise mountable by vehicles to maintain this emergency function. The City and Metrolinx are currently working together to determine whether a 0.5-metre buffer zone can be provided between the traffic lane and the bike lane, the potential design details of such a buffer zone, and the additional cost and property implications of widening the road to construct the buffer zone.
Utilities may need to be relocated in some places to allow for the new roadway layout; however, electrical infrastructure (hydro poles) is assumed to remain above-ground where it has not yet been buried. There is no available funding yet committed to burying utilities, although as the population along Eglinton increases and new development takes place, there may be localized opportunities to bury new and expanded infrastructure.
Metrolinx will be doing active construction in LRT station areas, rebuilding the roadway to the design recommended in the Eglinton Connects study wherever the road is disturbed. Between station areas, the City of Toronto has not yet identified construction funding for the permanent changes, but there will be an interim configuration, creating the bike lanes and new traffic lane layout through measures such as re-striping and placement of planters, barriers, etc. (currently being developed as part of the study). At this point, the LRT line will be operational, and there will be substantially fewer buses on Eglinton. Over time, as funding is made available, the interim condition between station areas will be replaced by all of the design elements proposed, with new curbs, raised bike lanes, trees, street furniture, etc.
Today, some sections of the Bloor-Yonge subway have parallel bus service and some do not. The decision on whether to provide parallel bus service is based on forecast ridership and budget availability compared to other passenger needs in the system. This same approach will be applied to the Eglinton Crosstown LRT.
TTC will make decisions about parallel bus service on Eglinton Avenue approximately a year before the opening day of the LRT. As with all major TTC route changes, customers and the community will be consulted, and the decision will be made by the Commission at a public meeting. If a parallel bus service is provided, it would use fully accessible TTC buses.
In the meantime, the Eglinton Avenue design work is protecting for a possible parallel bus service along the underground section of the LRT.
During LRT tunnel and station construction, the aim is to maintain a minimum of one-lane open for traffic headed in both directions on Eglinton Avenue in the construction zones. City and Metrolinx are coordinating on this major infrastructure project. Construction notices and updates will be posted on this website throughout the implementation process to provide communities with the information.
To learn more about construction traffic plans, please visit www.thecrosstown.ca, including Preliminary Construction and Traffic Management Planning.
How is the EGLINTONconnects Study related to Metrolinx's Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail (ESC LRT) station design process?
How is the EGLINTONconnects Study related to Metrolinx's Mount Dennis Mobility Hub Study and Kennedy Mobility Hub Study?
How is the EGLINTONconnects Study related to the City of Toronto's Allen Road Environmental Assessment Terms of Reference?
Metrolinx is the lead on designing stations, and the EGLINTONconnects team is the City's main representative in providing input on behalf of Toronto City Planning.
City staff and the Study team have reviewed and provided input into the Mount Dennis Mobility Hub Study. City staff and the Study team will continue to review the outcome of the 2 mobility hub studies, and will incorporate recommendations into the Eglinton Connects Study as appropriate. The two mobility hub studies are being undertaken by Metrolinx.
The study areas for the two environmental assessments intersect at Eglinton Avenue and Allen Road. The Eglinton EA will establish the design of the Eglinton Avenue cross-section at Allen Road, but will not propose any modifications to Allen Road itself. The Allen Road EA may consider longer-term modifications to this intersection, which could involve changes to the configuration of both Allen Road and Eglinton Avenue.
For more information on the Allen Road EA, please visit the following website.
There are a number of ongoing studies. How do I know where to get information?
The following chart offers guidance. If you're not sure, feel free to contact us and we'll direct you to the appropriate information and study.
EGLINTONconnects Planning Study Metrolinx
Future built form, including the size, nature, and height of future buildings Yes
Construction timing and impacts of the LRT Yes
Future public realm, including the sidewalk, turning lanes, bike routes, street trees, etc Yes
Traffic management during LRT construction Yes
Consideration for local heritage and character areas Yes
The location of stations and stops along the LRT line Yes
Mid-rise Buildings Testing Model
Note: video is silent. The video above shows the 3D model that was created to test the potential for mid-rise building development along the Eglinton Crosstown LRT corridor (Jane Street to Kennedy Road, excluding Focus Areas, Mobility Hubs, and the Yonge-Eglinton Centre). This model was used along with other research and public input to inform recommendations for the Study.
For results and recommendations, please see the report Volume 2: The Plan - Recommendations and Implementation Strategies under "Studies & Maps", and the City Planning Staff Report "Eglinton Connects Planning Study - Final Directions Report" of April 10, 2014 under "Staff Reports".
Demonstration of how Eglinton can be 'greened' at the Don Valley
Note: video is silent. The video above provides a demonstration of how Eglinton can be 'greened' at the Don Valley. The video explains links to trails and improvements to the public realm. A full text description of the video is located below the video on the YouTube site here.
Demonstration of how the Golden Mile in Scarborough could transform with LRT
Note: video is silent. This video provides a demostration of how the Golden Mile in Scarborough could transform with the coming Crosstown Light Rail Transit (LRT). A full text description of the video is located below the video on the YouTube site here.
A silent video provides a basic understanding of mid-rise buildings and design criteria for mid-rise buildings. For a fuller explanation, visit the Avenues and Mid-Rise Buildings site.
Paris' Le Tramway
EglintonConnects with Antoine Grumbach from BrookMcIlroy/ on Vimeo.
Precedent images and video of Paris' Le Tramway, presented on November 28, 2012 at the North Toronto Collegiate by Antoine Grumbach.
More videos to come soon. Stay tuned!
A radio advertisement aired from December 2012 until March 2013 on Virgin Radio 99.9, Boom 97.3, and NewsTalk 1010. The radio advertisement featured Chief Planner Jennifer Keesmaat, who encouraged participation and involvement in the Study, and mentioned methods for involvement including consultations and surveys. The advertisement ran from December 2012 to March 2013.
Links to related projects and Provincial Policy
Eglinton-Crosstown LRT Environmental Assessment (Transit City)
Eglinton-Scarborough Crosstown Rapid Transit Line
Eglinton-Scarborough Crosstown Rapid Transit Line - Metrolinx
Avenues and Mid-Rise Building Study