Renaming of Edgewood Park to Orchard Park

(East Toronto)

The Toronto Community Council recommends that:

(1) the following report (December 28, 1999) from the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism be adopted; and

(2) the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism expedite the redevelopment of the park so that spring construction can occur.

Purpose:

To recommend the renaming of Edgewood Park (at Dundas Street East and Orchard Park Boulevard) to Orchard Park.

Financial Implications and Impact Statement:

There are no financial implications resulting from the adoption of this report.

Recommendations:

It is recommended that:

(1) the park currently known as Edgewood Park at Dundas Street East and east of Coxwell Avenue be renamed Orchard Park; and

(2) the appropriate City Officials be authorized and directed to take the necessary action to give effect thereto.

Background:

A request was received from Councillor Tom Jakobek recommending the name change of Edgewood Park to Orchard Park. In March 1999, a Proposed Park Improvements plan for redevelopment of Edgewood Park was proposed to the community for discussion (Attachment No. 1). A community survey was conducted by the Parks and Recreation Division on the option of renaming this park to Orchard Park, along with redevelopment proposals. The results were in favour of the name change to Orchard Park.

Research by Parks and Recreation staff shows that the development of this park was commenced in 1922. It was designated as Open Space and as the Edgewood Ravine in 1984 (former City of Toronto Council By-law 774-84; 718-84). Presently, this Park runs alongside Orchard Park Boulevard and is not part of any ravine. Heritage Toronto has been consulted and has no objection to the proposed renaming (Attachment No. 2).

Comments:

As shown on the map (Attachment No. 3), the majority of this park is located alongside Orchard Park Boulevard, not Edgewood Avenue. Staff research indicates there is an Edgewood Park in the former municipality of Scarborough and an Old Orchard Park located in the former municipality of North York.

Conclusion:

Edgewood Park is no longer a clear representation of its present surroundings. There is community support in favour of its renaming to Orchard Park.

Contact:

Mike Dwinnell

Manager Parks and Recreation -South East District

Telephone: 392-7265 Ext. 322

Fax: 392-0049

E-mail: mdwinnell@toronto.ca

Attachment 1

Attachment 2

Attachment 3