Dear residents,
This week there are a lot of important and substantive decisions being debated at City Hall. We are looking at voting reforms, ward boundaries, my initiative to look at Traffic Signal Synchronization (see below) and many others.
I have also been busy in our neighbourhoods, visiting Rathnelly Day on Saturday and discussing a Communtiy Use Agreement for the new field at Maurice Cody on Monday evening. This Saturday I look forward to seeing you at the Davisville PS Fun Fair.
I do hope you find my latest update to you interesting and informative.
Josh
Traffic Signal Synchronization Motion Passes Council
Earlier today, my colleagues passed a motion to improve traffic signal synchronization at City Council. I am pleased that the Mayor and the Chair of Public Works made this a priority in response to my letter of September 2011.
Traffic congestion is a significant problem for Toronto's motorists, public transit users and cyclists. This congestion costs the region's economy an estimated $3.3 billion per year while negatively impacting on the quality of life of our residents. The long-term solution to this problem is building a more accessible, extensive and efficient public transportation system.
In the meantime, we can take significant steps such as this to improve traffic flow in the short-term.
Public Meeting: Townhouse Proposal for 17, 23 & 25 Lascelles Blvd (Brentwood Towers)
I would like to invite you and your neighbours to an important community information meeting regarding a complex and challenging development application for 17, 23 & 25 Lascelles Blvd. – the western portion of the Brentwood Towers. Keeping residents engaged and informed is a priority for me. The meeting will be held Tuesday, June 18, 7 pm to 9 pm at Yorkminster Park Baptist Church (1585 Yonge Street) in Cameron Hall. For more information, please visit my website.
Meeting: Development Proposal for the Corner of Redpath Ave. and Roehampton Ave.
Toronto City Planning is hosting a community consultation meeting regarding the proposed development of a 36 storey residential tower at 183-195 Roehampton Avenue & 139-145 Redpath Avenue. The meeting will be held on Thursday, June 20, 7 pm to 9 pm at St. Monica Catholic School in the multi-purpose room (14 Broadway Avenue). Please note that you may have received a notice in the mail with the wrong meeting location. Please click here for more information.
Help Decide the Future of the Gardiner Expressway East
The City of Toronto and Waterfront Toronto have resumed the public consultation process to help determine the future of the eastern portion of the Gardiner Expressway and Lakeshore Avenue East, from approximately Jarvis Street to Leslie Street. An Environmental Assessment will study four possible outcomes: maintaining, improving, replacing, or removing the elevated expressway.
You are invited to the first public forum on Thursday, June 13th from 6 to 8:30 pm at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (222 Bremner Blvd., Room 701, south building). You will be able to learn more about the project, understand the alternatives being considered, and what other jurisdictions have done with elevated expressways. You will also be able to ask questions and speak with members of the project team. Please register at http://gardinerconsultation.eventbrite.com. To find more information on this project, or to watch the meeting online, please visit www.gardinereast.ca.
Feedback on Future Streetscape of Eglinton Avenue
Toronto City Planning is seeking your feedback on the future streetscape of Eglinton Avenue as part of the Eglinton Connets planning study. Please take 15 minutes to fill out their survey at https://www.research.net/s/Eglinton3. The survey asks questions about the future streetscape and built form of Eglinton and includes images and diagrams of the options City Planning is developing. The survey is open until this Friday, June 14.
Reminder: Community Environment Day
On Saturday, June 22nd from 10 am to 2 pm I will be hosting my annual Community Environment Day. The location is the North Toronto Memorial Arena at 174 Orchard View Blvd. Please bring any unwanted art supplies, books, toys, and used sports equipment. Cycle Toronto Midtown will be there to donate your used bikes to the non-profit organization Charlie's Freewheels. Facilities will be available to dispose of computers and other hazardous household waste. You can also replace your damaged green bin.
National Aboriginal Day Outdoor Pow Wow
On Saturday, June 22nd, in honour of our First Nations' involvement in the Battle of Fort York, a traditional outdoor Pow Wow will be taking place at Well's Hill Park (south side of St. Clair Ave. W. between Bathurst St. and Spadina Ave.). The grand entry starts at 12:00 noon and the event will feature traditional dancing, a feast, a silent auction, an area for kids, crafts, and information booths.
Ping Pong Table for June Rowlands Park
I would deeply appreciate hearing your thoughts on the possibility of having an outdoor ping pong table in June Rowlands (Davisville) Park. A similar ping pong table was recently installed at St. Michael's College on the University of Toronto campus and the City of Toronto is initiating a pilot project to install a few tables in public spaces across the city. As our parks belong to the community, any changes or additions must have your support.
