Over the last twenty years there has been so much progress on our waterfront with new parks, thousands of new residential units, and Don River flood protection. I’ve worked with waterfront residents, stakeholders, and City staff to endorse the next phase of waterfront revitalization to bring more investment in our infrastructure, public spaces, and transit.
Our Waterfront's Future
Our Waterfront's Future
The waterfront is a special place in our city. It’s a destination for visitors, a place to work and learn, and a home for more people every day.
I’m proud to be the Mayor’s designate on the Board of Waterfront Toronto. I've worked closely with staff, the board, and community members and associations to advance our shared interest in waterfront revitalization. Some of the key things I’ve advocated for include funding the East Waterfront LRT, more affordable and purpose built rental housing, and new green spaces.
Read my op-ed in Spacing about how in uncertain times we can turn to the waterfront and the work together by all three levels of government as a blueprint for actually getting things done.
A Legacy of Waterfront Building
Since Waterfront Toronto began its work, investments have created:
- 9,600 new homes in the Lower Yonge, East Bayfront and West Don Lands precincts
- 58.5 hectares (144.6 acres) of new or improved public parks and public realm
- 20,785 years of construction employment
- 5,000 permanent jobs
- Added $2.7 billion of economic activity into the Canadian economy
- Generated almost $1.1 billion in tax revenues
- Triggered over $13.2 billion of private sector investment in the waterfront.
Our Next Phase of Waterfront Revitalization
On December 17, 2024 the City endorsed a plan to keep momentum going and build an incredible waterfront for everyone, with more homes, transit, and destinations.
On January 28, 2025 I was thrilled to join Federal and Provincial government partners to announce almost $1 billion in funding for the Next Phase of Waterfront Revitalization.
With this funding, we’ll welcome new neighbours and build complete communities with affordable housing, invest in green infrastructure to meet our climate leadership goals, and build new parks and destinations to serve neighbours and visitors:
- Funding for Waterfront Toronto to continue as the development lead for revitalization
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Investment in infrastructure that enables more than 14 000 housing units including:
- 4700 housing units (869 affordable) at Quayside
- 4500 housing units (goal of 30% affordable) at Ookwemin Minising
- 5,100 housing units (20% affordable) in Keating Channel
- The completion of Biidaasige Park and early activation
- A study of waterfront destinations and attractions
- Funding to advance the Marine Use Strategy and wider waterfront initiatives
City Council has also approved:
- Purpose-built rental housing incentives to fast track 1,250 new rental and 550 affordable units at Quayside, with construction set to begin in 2026.
- Selected affordable housing providers and updated zoning by-laws for Quayside, with construction set to begin in 2026.
- Implementation of a dedicated bus lane along Queens Quay East between Bay St. and Parliament St.
Over the last two decades, we’ve shown what we can do when governments work together – and it’s more important than ever. I'm excited to continue the work to build a spectacular waterfront for all.
I want to hear from you. Share your thoughts in a 2 minute survey on the next phase of waterfront revitalization.
Latest posts
The Amsterdam Bridge is back! I’m proud to have led a plan to restore this landmark on our waterfront, and you’re invited to celebrate its return.
The ice in the harbour has thawed and spring is coming to our waterfront! I’ve been working hard, with City staff and the team at Waterfront Toronto.
I am excited to kick off spring with milestones at some of our downtown parks over the next few weeks.
Last week, we approved the 2026 City Budget, just in time for Family Day. We were focused on making life more affordable for working families.
February is a short but busy month and though it may be cold outside, there are many reasons for us to gather in and celebrate our community.
This weekend in Toronto is a cold one so make sure you know what you need to do to stay warm. Warming centres and surge sites are open now and can be located here. If you see someone in need of help, please call 311.
It’s the start of a new year and at City Hall that always means it’s time for our annual budget process. Budgets are about priorities and yesterday, City staff launched their proposed budget, which continues our work to make life more affordable.
Today, the City approved the Mayor’s 2026 Budget, a budget that prioritizes ensuring that residents of Spadina-Fort York, and across Toronto, can thrive in our city. See more about key investments here.