Ontario Construction News staff writer
City staff presented a Toronto Island Park master plan to council this week, with more than 100 recommendations aimed at enhancing current uses and space.
“A plan is needed to address this natural place that is so important city,” said Howie Dayton, general manager of parks, forestry and recreation. “Improved wide-way finding signage, diverse food and beverage offerings, Indigenous ceremony and gathering spaces, flood mitigation improvements…there will be management plans in place to protect environmentally sensitive areas and wetlands,” said Dayton.
Once city councillor presented a motion asking the city to consider building a bridge to the islands so the public can more easily enjoy what he called the “gem of our city.” It would also improve access for emergency vehicles.
His motion directs the Deputy City Managers of Community and Social Services and Infrastructure Services to report on the cost of a fixed link compared to the cost of continued ferry fleet service.
“For me, it’s about accessibility,” Burnside said on NewsTalk1010 on June 25. “It’s Inclusion and it’s about reliability.
“It’s our largest park. It’s the gem of our city and we also have a huge development coming in the Portlands. Why would we funnel everyone onto a ferry system that constantly breaks down?”
The master plan will go to the infrastructure and environment committee on July 2 before going to city council meetings from July 24 to July 26.
Recommendations include:
Revealing an Indigenous Place
- Identifying space at Snake Island to support Indigenous ceremony and programming. Co-developing visions with Indigenous communities for cultural markers, gateways, and the cultural narrative trail.
Supporting the Natural Environment
- Implementing flood mitigation improvements
- Identifying opportunities to expand, improve and protect habitat.
- Developing and Island Charter to help all Island Visitors see themselves as Stewards of the Park
- Optimizing Park Operations and Management practices to protect nature
Improving Access and Connection
- Ferry Fleet Replacement
- Upgrading Jack Layton Ferry Terminal
- Expanding Bike Rentals
Enhancing the Visitor Experience
- Updating the website
- Expanding four-season facilities
- Improving food and beverage options and services with new food and beverage contracts with multiple vendors
- Studying feasibility of a Welcome Centre
Elevating Equity and Belonging
- Park accessibility improvements
- Studying the Island’s Cultural Heritage in collaboration with different communities
- Improving access to underused park areas
Celebrating 2SLGBTQ+ Significance
- A community safety strategy for Hanlan’s Island and Beach
- Restoring and protecting Hanlan’s Beach dune habitat
- Developing a Hanlan’s Cultural Heritage Study
- Acknowledging the significance of Hanlan’s Point to the 2SLGBTQ+ Community (i.e. interpretive sign/marker)