The stretch of Queen Street between Spadina Avenue and Simcoe Street is about to undergo some changes as part of the city's Streetscape Improvement Program.


On Monday, Councillor Joe Cressy, Ward 10, which oversees Spadina-Fort York, said the Queen Street West BIA kicked off its Streetscape Improvement Program in the area and when completed, it will mirror the work that was previously completed from Bathurst to Spadina.

READ: A 7-Storey Mixed Use Building Could Be Coming to Queen Street West

Cressy said the program will "improve the public realm, urban forestry, and accessibility" along this stretch of Queen West.

The improvements will include new trees and tree guards, street furniture, and re-paved sidewalks with heritage markers denoting some of the historically significant structures in the area.

Cressy said there's also the possibility of new pedestrian-friendly spaces.

According to the City, Streetscape Improvement elements that are permanent and within the City’s right-of-way, are eligible under the capital cost-share program. These include:

  • Art installations
  • Banner poles and banners
  • Benches
  • Gateways
  • Hanging baskets
  • Median enhancements
  • Pedestrian lighting
  • Planters
  • Sidewalk treatments
  • While design work is still in the early stages, construction is scheduled to align with streetcar track improvements, which are currently scheduled for 2021.

    Toronto