Toronto is embarking on an ambitious new mixed-use housing project adjacent to the TTC’s Wilson Station, which is expected to bring 1,484 new residential units to the city. The development will transform the former commuter parking lot at 50 Wilson Heights Blvd. and, significantly, it will include 520 affordable rental homes. This project marks the latest initiative under the HousingTO 2020-2030 Action Plan, particularly the Housing Now initiative, which leverages city-owned land for the creation of affordable housing.
The partnership driving this project includes the City of Toronto and CreateTO, along with private developers Tridel, Greenwin, and KingSett Capital. The site will not only offer housing options but also community-focused amenities, such as a childcare center, public park, community spaces, retail units, and even a new public road. To align with climate goals, the project will implement sustainable design practices, featuring geothermal energy systems and complying with the highly regarded Toronto Green Standard, which promotes eco-friendly building practices.
“This transit-oriented community brings together all the elements families need to thrive – affordable housing, accessible transit, green spaces, and community services,” remarked Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow during the groundbreaking ceremony. She expressed her excitement for the project’s launch and appreciation for all involved parties who made it happen.
The construction will occur in phases, with work set to start on the affordable and market rental homes as soon as spring 2025, aiming for completion by early 2029. The Housing Now initiative, which is central to Toronto’s comprehensive housing strategy, aims to create 65,000 new rent-controlled homes by 2030, including 41,000 affordable units, to combat the pressing housing affordability crisis.
“By transforming this underutilized site, we’re creating housing and enhancing community infrastructure to serve residents for years to come,” explains Vic Gupta, CEO of CreateTO. The organization is dedicated to converting City-owned properties, such as the Wilson Heights site, to meet housing demands and bolster the community fabric.
This project is poised to set a new benchmark for sustainable, transit-oriented urban living, potentially influencing future developments across the city. Kevin Green, President and CEO of Greenwin, shares his pride in being part of such a significant effort, noting, “This project exemplifies our commitment to building inclusive, connected neighborhoods with sustainable technologies.”
Toronto’s City Council has so far allocated over 20 City-owned properties to the Housing Now initiative, with several other sites also under construction. The development at Wilson Heights is one of the key projects characterized by its dual focus on housing and community investment. City officials report the construction work is already underway, with preliminary efforts to dismantle existing parking infrastructure occurring now.
The city’s ambitious housing strategy is reflected by the extensive financial commitments made—more than $1.3 billion to date—including land value and various funding initiatives focused on cultivating affordable housing. The goal is clear: to create inclusive, livable spaces where families can thrive and have access to necessary services without the looming pressures of housing costs.
“Today’s groundbreaking marks not just the start of construction but also the beginning of building sustainable, livable communities,” added Gupta at the event. This sentiment encapsulates the vision behind this initiative as Toronto rises to meet growing housing demands with strategic and sustainable solutions.
The collective efforts by the city, CreateTO, and the partnered developers mean more than just erecting buildings; it’s about fostering neighborhoods equipped to support daily life, providing accessible transit, eateries, childcare, parks, and all the essentials for modern living. The planned community aims to meld conveniently located residential units with vibrant public spaces, emphasizing the necessity of integrated urban planning.
Mayor Chow’s vision is crystal clear and echoed by the statements from various leaders involved: create environments where families don’t just live but thrive. The project is celebrated as not just meeting the immediate housing needs of Toronto’s residents, but also setting the scene for future urban developments throughout the city.
Lastly, it's worth noting the overall impact of the Housing Now initiative as it aims to renew and revitalize areas across Toronto, creating not just homes, but transformative, liveable spaces where both individuals and families can access resources and community. This is the type of proactive approach required to tackle the challenges of urban living and housing affordability—creating pathways for success rather than simply addressing crises.
