Release of Section 37 and Section 42 (Planning Act) Funds from Area Developments for Improvements at The Bentway and Fort York National Historic Site - by Councillor Joe Cressy, seconded by Councillor Mike Layton

Together, the recent creation of The Bentway and the construction of the Fort York Visitors Centre have transformed the derelict lands beneath the Gardiner Expressway, from Strachan Avenue to Bathurst Street, into a busy public space, expanded parkland and a front door for the National Historic Site. These improvements benefit the nearly 80,000 new residents within a short walk, as well as the wider Toronto and national community who visit. These funds will support the addition of new public amenities and will improve the experience for residents and visitors to the dynamic sites. The release of these funds is time-sensitive in order to permit some construction to be completed over the winter season, and to allow trail work to be undertaken on an urgent basis to stabilize a slope area at the east end of the Fort York Visitor Centre before erosion occurs. This work will also complete a number of connections identified in the Garrison Common Parks and Open Space Plan, the Shoreline Stitch, and the Downtown Parks and Public Realm Plan. These include connections from the recently opened Garrison Crossing pedestrian and cycling bridge to June Callwood Park and the waterfront, as well as connections north from Garrison Crossing to the future Ordnance Park and south Stanley Park extension.

Section 37 funds from 65 Grand Magazine, FYN Block 4A (formerly 20, 22, 22A, 24 Bathurst Street) in the amount of $604,651.16 (Source Account: XR3026-3701003); and b. Section 42 funds from 65 Grand Magazine, FYN Block 4A (formerly 20, 22, 22A, 24 Bathurst Street) in the amount of $426,195.00 (Source Account: XR2213-4201251). 2. City Council authorize the Director, Waterfront Secretariat, City Planning, and the Director, Museums and Heritage Services, Economic Development and Culture to work with the appropriate staff of Waterfront Toronto and The Bentway Conservancy to realize these projects in 2020.