In recent years, the City of Toronto has been working to improve the public realm of the city, particularly on the waterfront. planningAlliance has been commissioned by the City to outline a vision and master plan for a four kilometer-stretch of parkland, termed the Western Waterfront.

The resulting master plan includes a number of "big moves" designed to re-connect the waterfront to the city, redesign major transportation infrastructure, incorporate transit, render the parkland itself more useable, and balance competing uses.

Of particular interest to members of Roncesvalles Renewed, is a proposal for a land bridge that would restore the historic connection between Lake Ontario and the south end of Roncesvalles where it intersects with King, Queen and the Queensway. This bridge would replace the narrow existing pedestrian bridge to the west of the intersection with a new pedestrian bridge about 20 metres wide, creating a dramatic approach to the new parkland on the lake.

Other key features include a series of significant urban beaches, improved water quality and swimming opportunities, dramatically realigning Lake Shore Boulevard to capture "orphaned" parkland, establishing recreational hubs at key locations, and establishing a network of complementary pathway systems.

Public consultation is an important part of this Master Plan study. Next week, everyone is welcome to attend a Community Advisory Group meeting and Public Open House. planningAlliance will present the final draft Master Plan, and seek input from the public:

WHEN: Thursday, February 19th, 2009, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

WHERE: St. Joseph's Health Centre (30 The Queensway) in the Education Centre A & B, Room 1B 105A and the cafeteria, 1st floor Barnicke Wing.  view map

If you have any questions, comments, require further information or would like to be added to the mailing list, please contact:Kiran Chhiba, planningAlliance kchhiba@planningalliance.ca.