This week at City Council, Council approved the proposal for 30 Cleary Avenue.
I wanted to address the concerns raised by the Unitarian House delegations regarding the safety and walkability at 30 Cleary Avenue. While the city’s emergency services, including Fire and Paramedics, have approved the single exit as satisfactory, I fully understand the ongoing concerns of residents about the overall safety and accessibility on the property. This is why I made a point to ask the developer to collaborate closely with residents to ensure that safe walking routes are in place both during and after construction. During the meeting, the representatives from Theia Partners expressed their commitment to making this happen, which is a positive step forward.
The current design plan for the campus includes the creation of a woonerf—a slow street where pedestrian safety and accessibility are prioritized. This design also includes pathway connections to the LRT Station and through the campus, which should enhance walkability for everyone.
Rest assured, these discussions will continue during the site plan process, where city staff and Theia Partners will work together to refine these important aspects.
The report written by staff states: “As part of the Site Plan Application, the developer will be required to provide a publicly accessible pathway connection from Richmond Road to Kichi Zibi Mikan Parkway, as required by the Sherbourne and New Orchard Secondary Plan. The applicant is responsible for obtaining all necessary easements, approvals, and construction at their sole cost.”
As someone who strongly advocates for walkability and access to transit, I know how crucial these issues are, especially for older adults. I would encourage you to participate in the Older Adult Plan Update consultations to share your valuable input on the importance of pedestrian safety.
I also encourage the applicant to continue to consult with the residents of Woodroffe North specifically on Aylen Avenue to ensure their privacy is taken into consideration in the design of the buildings and landscaping. this includes the green buffer that separates their properties from the project.
Overall the need for affordable housing is important and particularly with our First Nations partners. This project is a partnership with the Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services and we welcome them into the community.
