Golden Mile development brings concerns about jobs, public space. Project will bring over 2,000 residential units — ranging in height from 12 to 48 storeys.
Public concerns were raised at a community consultation meeting last month to discuss a proposed mixed-use development at 1911-1921 Eglinton Ave East in Scarborough’s Golden Mile neighbourhood. The eight-building project would include 2,365 residential units, retail and office space, 3,310 square metres of new public parkland and two new public streets.
According to the local city councillor for the area, Parthi Kandavel, this proposed development is “part of a larger conversation” about the future of the neighbourhood and the “intense development” that has already been approved, which could see the addition of upwards of 50,000 to 80,000 new residents over the next twenty years.
“Planners hope to
reduce the number
of cars in the
neighbourhood.
They expect people
to opt for the
Eglinton Crosstown.”
Kandavel says people are concerned with keeping “good paying jobs” in this area, which has traditionally been a centre of economic activity. As big-box stores in the area disappear, the councillor says it’s important that the city maintain a mix of office and commercial space so there are more than just retail jobs available. He also said locals want to see investment in community spaces and strong “public realm enhancement.”
The 8 buildings proposed range in height from 12 to 48 storeys. The proposal also includes 130 affordable housing units, a childcare centre, space for a community agency, and a public art installation.
The parking plan provides 1,153 resident spaces, 36 visitor spaces, and 135 office/retail spaces. According to the planning documents, by limiting the available number of parking spaces at the site, the planners hope to reduce the number of cars and car traffic in the neighbourhood. They expect people to opt instead for the Eglinton Crosstown.
Councillor Kandevel, however, has concerns about how well the Crosstown will function when it eventually opens. Pointing to the slower than anticipated Finch West LRT, he says he is afraid we may see the same challenges plague the Crosstown. For example, he pointed to the short distance between some of the stops, such as between Hakimi Lebovic and Golden Mile, which he suggested people might find faster to walk. He also thinks the City should possibly rethink future plans for an extension of the LRT on Eglinton Ave East if express buses could offer faster and more flexible service.
