Charting a Path to a Healing Memorial for the Yonge Street Tragedy - by Councillor Lily Cheng, seconded by Mayor Olivia Chow

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The decision

2025-04-23 · Toronto City Council · adopted

As filed

City Council on April 23 and 24, 2025, adopted the following: 1. City Council direct the General Manager, Parks and Recreation, in consultation with the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture, to bring forward a plan for a Yonge Street Tragedy memorial in Olive Square Park, and report back to the July 9, 2025, meeting of the Economic and Community Development Committee with: a. a consultative plan to engage victims' families, the Yonge Street Tragedy Memorial Steering Committee and the Willowdale community; b.

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proposed scope, including current site conditions and elements discussed with the steering committee, including consideration of a water feature, perennial garden and lighting; c. design contest timeline; d. work plan; e. funding sources; and f. a plan that brings forward the earliest possible date of implementation.

On the agenda

As the city filed it

On April 23, 2018, a devastating tragedy occurred on Yonge Street in Toronto's Willowdale neighborhood. The attack took place on a beautiful spring Monday afternoon in the heart of downtown North York resulting in the deaths of 11 people and injuries to 15 others. It was the deadliest mass murder in Toronto's history and sent shockwaves throughout the country. In the years since, the community has come together in grief, strength, and remembrance as the city has worked to keep the victims' memories alive through ongoing commemoration.

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The community is hopeful for a peaceful, permanent space where reflection and healing can continue to take place. Reason for urgency: A permanent memorial is urgently needed to honour the victims and provide a dedicated space for reflection and healing. Given the years that have passed since the tragedy, it is crucial to act swiftly and establish the memorial in a timely manner for a respectful tribute. Regrettably, challenges arose due to the scheduled reconstruction of Yonge Street and future refresh of Mel Lastman Square which made it difficult to select an appropriate location.

Staff recommended

Councillor Lily Cheng, seconded by Mayor Olivia Chow, recommends that: 1. City Council direct the General Manager, Parks and Recreation, in consultation with the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture, to bring forward a plan for a Yonge Street Tragedy memorial in Olive Square Park, and report back to the July 9, 2025 meeting of the Economic and Community Development Committee with: a. a consultative plan to engage victims' families, the Yonge Street Tragedy Memorial Steering Committee and the Willowdale community; b.

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On the record

The item as the City filed it

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