Toronto is set to enhance its public amenities with the development of the Ramsden Park Community Recreation Centre (CRC). Situated at 1020 Yonge Street, just west of Rosedale Subway Station, the new facility will replace a former surface parking lot to better serve the growing community. Spearheaded by the City of Toronto, the project is still in its early planning stages, with construction set to begin in Spring 2027 and completion expected by Summer 2030.
The CRC will be constructed on the former Toronto Parking Authority surface lot known as Car Park 269. Previously a convenient parking option for visitors to Ramsden Park, the lot was permanently closed in June 2023. The City aims to transform this underutilized space into a dynamic, multi-functional community facility offering a range of recreational opportunities.
Key features of the proposed facility include:
A six-lane, 25-metre pool – Designed for competitive swimming, fitness training, and general use.
A leisure pool – Providing a more relaxed setting for recreational swimming and community programming.
A gymnasium with a running track – Offering ample space for sports, fitness activities, and community events.
Multi-purpose spaces – Flexible rooms for various programs, meetings, and activities.
Wi-Fi access throughout the facility – Ensuring digital connectivity for visitors and staff.
Accessibility and sustainability – The facility will meet Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) standards and be designed to achieve Net Zero emissions.
BlogTo reports that a design team is expected to be selected in Spring 2024, with extensive community engagement planned through 2026. The final design is set to be revealed in Fall 2026, paving the way for construction to commence in 2027.
Inclusive Design – Ensuring all facilities meet AODA guidelines to support universal accessibility.
Net Zero Building Goals – Using sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and carbon-reduction strategies.
Seamless Integration with Ramsden Park – The facility’s design will complement the park’s natural landscape, allowing for an interconnected indoor-outdoor recreational experience.
As with any major infrastructure project, several construction challenges and workforce needs will arise throughout development:
Site Preparation and Demolition – Clearing the existing paved lot and preparing the foundation will be critical first steps.
Pool and Aquatic Facility Construction – Requires specialized expertise in large-scale water filtration, heating, and circulation systems.
Structural and Interior Development – The gymnasium, running track, and multi-purpose spaces will require high-quality materials and precise construction techniques.
Mechanical and Electrical Systems – HVAC, lighting, and digital connectivity installations must align with modern energy efficiency standards.
Sustainable Building Practices – Net Zero targets will be met through responsible material sourcing, advanced insulation methods, and renewable energy integration.
A key aspect of this development is the absence of replacement parking for the former lot. This may become a focal point in public consultations; however, the facility benefits from direct transit access via Rosedale Subway Station, located across Yonge Street. The station is currently undergoing significant accessibility upgrades, ensuring that transit remains a viable option for all visitors.
The debate over vehicle access in urban parks, as seen in the High Park parking discussions, could influence community opinions. However, the closure of Car Park 269 for nearly two years suggests that local residents have already begun adapting to alternative transportation methods. Future consultations may address whether additional parking accommodations are necessary or if transit accessibility is sufficient.
The City of Toronto is committed to engaging the community in shaping the final plans for the Ramsden Park CRC. The upcoming project milestones include:
Spring 2024 – Selection of the design team.
2024-2026 – Multiple rounds of community consultation to refine the project scope.
Fall 2026 – Unveiling of the finalized facility design.
Spring 2027 – Construction begins.
Summer 2030 – Official opening of the facility.
The Ramsden Park Community Recreation Centre represents a forward-thinking investment in Toronto’s public infrastructure, offering residents a state-of-the-art facility for fitness, recreation, and community engagement. With its emphasis on accessibility, sustainability, and connectivity, this project is set to become a model for modern community development. As construction progresses, collaboration between city planners, construction professionals, and local residents will ensure that the CRC serves the evolving needs of Toronto’s growing population.