Toronto's Moss Park neighborhood is on the brink of a significant transformation. The plans for a new community centre and an upgraded park promise to revitalize this urban area. This revitalization effort, initiated by the City of Toronto, will replace the existing John Innes Community Centre at Queen and Sherbourne (150 Sherbourne Street) and remodel the adjacent park, breathing new life into the neighborhood.
The reimagining of Moss Park began in 2015, highlighting the city's commitment to improving public amenities in underserved neighborhoods. The latest plans, stemming from a 2019 strategy, include replacing the John Innes Community Recreation Centre and remodeling Moss Park Arena's façade.
“The project provides an opportunity for a holistic redesign of the park and community recreation centre, which will lead to better outcomes for the community. The aim of the project is to create welcoming, safe and accessible spaces for all, including the most vulnerable members of the community.”
City of Toronto Website
Design and Features of the New Facilities
The existing playground, splash pad, and community centre will be demolished to make way for a fluid and futuristic community space.
The proposed community centre design will feature the following:
- A 25-meter, six-lane lap pool
- A leisure/tot pool
- A double gymnasium with a mezzanine running track
- Fitness and dance studios
- Communal spaces
- Senior spaces
- Universal washrooms and change rooms
Storeys reports that environmental considerations are central to the project, with plans for a green roof or a rooftop with community access. The park's redesign includes improved sight lines and lighting for safety, along with a mix of passive and active recreation amenities.
Park Upgrades and Environmental Sustainability
The Moss Park upgrades will significantly improve the surrounding greenspace. This will include paths that will offer residents a variety of recreational opportunities. The park's improvements will include:
- Playground
- Splash pad
- Community gardens
- Off-leash dog area
- Walking paths
- Improved sight lines
- Lighting and animation
- May include tennis and basketball
The park's redesign is envisioned with environmental sustainability and social resilience in mind. An Indigenous place-keeping approach will see the integration of artworks from local Indigenous communities, and considerations for food security and urban agriculture are also included.
Projected Timelines for Completion
The community centre is slated for completion by 2028, with the park’s construction expected to finish in 2030. These timelines reflect the project's scale and the commitment to thorough planning and execution.
LOOKING FOR MORE PROJECTS IN ONTARIO?
The Moss Park revitalization project is part of a broader transformation in the neighborhood. This includes the conversion of existing buildings into a new rental building and the addition of two new parks, further enhancing the area's urban appeal. The planned improvements, from community gardens to new playgrounds and improved seating paths, are set to significantly enhance the quality of life for Moss Park residents.
The Moss Park revitalization project stands as a significant undertaking not just for the residents of Toronto but also for the construction industry. As workers in this field, this project offers a unique opportunity to engage in urban redevelopment that combines innovative architectural design, sustainable construction practices, and community-focused development.
The construction of the new community center and the park’s redevelopment will require a blend of skilled craftsmanship, advanced building techniques, and a deep understanding of sustainable materials and practices. This project will likely involve a diverse team of professionals, from architects and engineers to tradespeople and laborers, all contributing their expertise to create a space that is both functional and inviting.
