Why It’s Important
In our initial planning stages and our early years, the community was represented by the West Don Lands Committee (WDLC); today we, the Canary District Neighbourhood Association, have taken over that responsibility. In each case we are in direct communication with the developers as community representatives.
The Story
Since the first permanent residents began moving in to Canary District in 2016, our population has gone from 0 to more than 6,000 individuals. It will jump to more than 11,000 by 2031. Infrastructure projects such as the Ontario Line, an elementary school and the development of a dog park and community space will have an impact as well. Finally, developments adjacent to the neighbourhood such as the Rekai Centre and Cherry House (both on the other side of Cherry Street), the East Harbour Transit Hub (on the other side of the Don River), and the Port Lands (to our south) will also make a difference to life in Canary District.
Here are some of the development projects that will transform our neighbourhood over the next 10 years:
Residential Buildings
- Block 13 – This is the large condominium development to be built in the empty lot across from Corktown Common, on Bayview between Front and Mill Streets.
- Dominion Foundry Site – The site of the heritage industrial buildings on the block northeast of Rolling Mills Road and Palace Street, to be developed into two condominium towers and one affordable rental tower.
- Oak House (Block 20) – A large rental development to be built between Maple House and the railroad tracks. It has been delayed as the site has been appropriated by Metrolinx for Ontario Line Construction staging.
Non-Residential Buildings
- Foundry Community Space – One of the heritage buildings on the Dominion Foundry site, to be given to the City as community space.
- Cherry Place (The Rekai Centre) – The site across Cherry Street from the YMCA, now being built as a long-term care facility. It is just outside our neighbourhood boundary but its construction will affect us.
- Elementary School – An elementary school has been planned for the intersection of Bayview and Mill Street, but construction has been delayed by the appropriation of the site by Metrolinx.
Infrastructure Projects
- Metrolinx Don Yard Construction (Ontario Line)
- East Harbour Transit Hub – A transit station for the Ontario Line will be built across the Don River from the southeastern corner of our neighbourhood.
- Lower Don Pedestrian/Cycling Bridge – As part of the East Harbour Transit Hub / Ontario Line Projects, we were promised a multi-use path (MUP) across the Don River, from Corktown Common to the East Harbour Transit Hub. We are seeking clarity on timing.
- Dogs Off Leash Area – The western end of the underpass created by the Eastern Avenue Bridge is to be developed as a dogs off leash area.
What You Can Do
- Read about the developments by clicking on the links listed above.
- Stay in touch with us for updates.