Parliament Street Rooming Houses Open Their Doors!

On November 4, I was excited to join community members and Dixon Hall for the opening of new housing at 504 to 508 Parliament Street. With 31 new homes now open at 504, 506, and 508 Parliament Street, the City is taking an important step toward providing much-needed affordable housing in our community.

This milestone follows a 2020 decision by City Council which transferred $6 million in section 37 community benefits from developments within Ward 13 to the then owners of the building, Toronto Community Housing Corporation. This funding supported the renovation and modernization of these Parliament Street heritage properties.

Looking ahead, 502 Parliament Street will soon add another 11 units, with tendering work expected to be completed in 2025. The goal of these renovations is simple yet vital: to create good-quality homes for 44 residents who are currently living outside or in shelters. By revitalizing underused buildings, we are helping some of our most vulnerable neighbours find stable, dignified housing with the right supports.

During the final stages of construction, a sewage issue caused delays in completing the project, which understandably raised concerns among residents. I raised this matter through an Administrative Inquiry at the October City Council meeting to ensure transparency and accountability. I also encourage any community member who wishes to do so to contact the Auditor General’s Office directly to share their concerns or request a review.

Ultimately, the Parliament Rooming Houses represent more than just new housing, they represent opportunity, community, and hope. These homes will help residents build independence and stronger connections to the neighbourhood we all share. Projects like this one remind us what’s possible when we invest in people.

Latest posts

REmarket: February 11 and 12!

The St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association (SLNA) Waste Reduction Group is hosting its 15th REmarket event on Feb 11 & 12, 2026! If you have never attended, this is a fantastic event that aims to make a direct, tangible impact on both the environment and the social welfare of our local communities. Whether you are looking to recycle electronic waste, get your household times--including bicycles--repaired or want to donate unused clothing, glasses or cell phones, you can do it all at REmarket!

Councillor Update - January 2026

2026 has arrived! I hope you and your loved ones had a chance to relax and celebrate this past holiday season. While the weather continues to be erratic, one thing you can count on is local drop-in skating rinks being open this winter, such as at the Regent Park Athletic Grounds, Moss Park Arena and Toronto Metropolitan University Square. Grab your skates, consult the City's online map to see the rink's status, and let’s make the best of the cold weather while it lasts!

Today, City staff released budget briefing notes for the 2026 City Budget, and it appears there will effectively be a 50% funding cut from what was originally promised for the 2025-2030 Downtown East Action Plan (DEAP). If you attended any of my town halls over the past three years, you’ve heard me speak about how important and valuable this plan is. Toronto Centre is a ward with a growing population and the largest concentration of social services in the City, which puts significant pressure on our roads and open spaces. The DEAP provides more supports to keep our vulnerable residents safe and our streets and parks clean. That cannot happen without the funding it requires, and I have significant concerns that the DEAP will receive about half the funding it was promised for this year.

Black Excellence Panel - February 7

Join me on Saturday, February 7, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM as we celebrate Black Excellence in Ward 13, Toronto Centre. This event offers residents and youth of our community the opportunity to meet local leaders who operate our city’s vital services, to gather career advice, and to be part of a network with other community members.

Parliament Street Rooming Houses Open Their Doors!

Latest posts

REmarket: February 11 and 12!

Councillor Update - January 2026

Black Excellence Panel - February 7

Take action

Connect with Chris

City Hall Office

Constituency Office