For our June In The Ward neighbourhood walk, my team explored the Canary District - the newest neighbourhood in Toronto Centre. We were joined by members of the Canary District Neighbourhood Association which just launched last summer. As we explored the neighbourhood, accessibility and safety emerged as key areas for improvement.
Our walk began at Lawren Harris Square, a space which residents noted is lacking in character considering it is named after the prolific Group of Seven painter. Fortunately, our Participatory Budgeting process provided an opportunity to submit ideas to make the space more inviting and usable. We also discussed how the square could be made more accessible with paved pathways as the current gravel treatment can be problematic for mobility devices.
Just up the street at Old Foundry Road and Rolling Mills Road we checked out the recently-installed all-way-stop. While the installation of stop signs has improved safety at the intersection, there was concern that not all drivers are mindful of pedestrians. With several new housing buildings slated to go up on the Dominion Foundry Site, the community is eager to future-proof the neighbourhood. They suggested that zebra markings be installed to enhance visibility for the pedestrian crossing.*
Next we explored the Front Street Promenade – the most highly-trafficked area in the Canary District, home to the iconic Water Guardians public art installation, the Cooper Koo YMCA and several businesses. However, it is difficult for people who use mobility devices to cross Front Street at Cooperage Street, Rolling Mills Road and Tannery Road because the existing curb cuts are not aligned for north-south crossing. One solution would be to install raised intersections at these locations. This could be completed as part of a future road reconstruction project.
Our neighbourhood visit ended with a tour of the new Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT) Indigenous Health Hub. The facility is complete with a dental clinic, traditional healing, primary care, mental health supports and a training program – a true model of what comprehensive, culturally-tailored care should be. I am proud to welcome the AHT team to Toronto Centre!
*Zebra markings have since been installed at this intersection
