A retail strip of Eglinton Avenue already facing increased density may see more development, as two Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) commuter lots are considered as potential surplus property.
A report from the City of Toronto Government Management Committee states the lots — 1250 and 1350 Eglinton Ave. W., near Bathurst Street — will most likely be handed over to Build Toronto if they are officially declared surplus land. Build Toronto, the city’s property development agency, will then have the opportunity to evaluate them for development potential. Kevin Carrington, TTC spokesperson, said the lots will likely be retained for use until construction of the Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit is over.
The strip is already looking at an overhaul, after a handful of retail lots have been bought by developers proposing mixed-use condominium developments including 875 Eglinton Ave. W. — a plaza on the southwest corner. A city-owned parking lot at 935 Eglinton Ave. W. is also slated for condo development.
Patrick Smyth, director of planning and development for the Avenue Road Eglinton Community Association (ARECA), said he doesn’t oppose the development but is concerned about the transition process for the rapidly developing area.
“An avenue study should be done,” he said. “We know that subway entrances will be popping up all along Eglinton Avenue … and it will send shock waves through community associations like mine.” He also said he hopes the community will have input on the design plan, specifically the streetscape. “We’re residents, we’re customers,” he said. “We just want to have a say on areas that impact our quality of life.”
Local councillor Joe Mihevc said there is a lengthy process involved in turning land over to Build Toronto. “We could even be looking at a minimum of five years,” he said. “The TTC needs that space right now.”
Bruce Logan, a Build Toronto director, said no paperwork has been received from the city, yet, and therefore, he can’t comment on the issue.