The Pits Park District is a network of parks in downtown Toronto that includes Art Eggleton Park, Bickford Park and Christie Pits Park. Identified in the Downtown Parks and Public Realm Plan, the Pits Park District is guided by a goal of improving connectivity, identity and the overall experience of public spaces across the area.

Current, proposed and completed park improvements in the district are informed by the Pits Park District Public Life Study. A Pits Park District Action Plan is being developed by a City of Toronto working group and will help track, evaluate and advance potential improvements across the three parks.

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Proposed Improvements

Washroom

The City is exploring the placement of an additional portable toilet within Art Eggleton Park to improve visitor convenience and accessibility, including identifying a suitable location and coordinating with Solid Waste Management Services.

Proposed Improvements

Washroom

The proposed replacement of the existing standalone washroom with a prefabricated washroom would improve functionality and accessibility. The washroom is currently under review as part of the Park Washroom Enhancement Program.

Off-Leash Area

Proposed improvements include:

  • replacing the existing pea gravel with dog‑friendly surfacing
  • installing an accessible pathway
  • upgrading gate latches and other features

Design development is planned for 2026 and will align with the Dogs Off‑Leash Strategy, with construction expected to begin in 2027.

Cycling Infrastructure

Proposed additional cycling infrastructure includes the installation of new bike racks at the south end. Any new cycling infrastructure will be informed by the City‑wide cycling facilities planning review.

Outdoor Fitness Equipment

A review of the proposed addition of outdoor fitness equipment includes:

  • potential locations
  • appropriate equipment
  • amount of equipment

Pathway Lighting

Considerations for more lighting along pathways include:

  • appropriate locations and lighting types
  • public safety
  • visibility during low‑light hours
  • accessibility
  • potential environmental impacts

Current Improvements

Seating

Two umbrella tables on concrete pads are being installed to enhance visitor comfort and usability.

The project is currently in the contracting and procurement phase, with installation anticipated by early 2026.

Completed Improvements

2024

Eighteen new trees were planted in 2024:

  • along pathways at the north and south ends
  • near the off‑leash area
  • at the top of the slope along Grace Street

Proposed Improvements

Basketball Court

The current court was installed in 2016 and will reach the end of its lifecycle around 2031, depending on its use and condition. At that time, the site will be reassessed and improvements considered, including the:

  • potential expansion of the court
  • introduction of a softer surface to improve playability

Bottle Filling Station

An additional drinking water source and bottle-filling station closer to the basketball court is being considered.

Concessions

The concession stand currently operates during scheduled baseball games. Opportunities to expand its use to support special events and broader park programming are being explored.

Outdoor Pool

Proposed improvements to improve accessibility at Alex Duff Memorial Pool’s north and south pools include the use of mobile pool lifts and floating chairs. Community engagement will help assess interest and demand.

Washroom and Changeroom

The condition of the existing washroom and changeroom building near the baseball diamonds will be reviewed as part of the Parks Washroom Enhancement Program.

Potential major improvements include winterization to support year‑round use.

Current Improvements

Ball Diamond

Improvements are underway at Ball Diamond Field 2, located closest to the outdoor pools. Improvements include:

  • resurfacing the field to improve playing conditions
  • installing new water spigots to support dust management during dry periods
  • improving accessibility and walkability behind the backstop area
  • realigning bleachers and dugouts to increase safety and circulation for players and spectators
  • enhancing drainage along the north bank to reduce water pooling

Construction is ongoing and is anticipated to be completed by early spring 2026.

Playground and Wading Pool

The existing playground is anticipated to be improved as part of the Playground Enhancement Program. Changing the existing wading pool to a splash pad is also planned. Design development is expected to begin in 2026, with construction anticipated between 2027 and 2028.

Completed Improvements

2025

Twenty‑two new trees were planted along:

  • the northern boundary near Barton Avenue
  • pathways in the southern half of the park

More bike racks were installed outside the Alex Duff Memorial Pool to accommodate high demand during the warmer months.

Based on the Pits Park District Public Life Study’s findings, the City established an internal working group to develop an Action Plan that helps track, evaluate, and advance potential improvements across the three parks.

Proposed Improvements

Enhancing Park Connections and Signage

Potential wayfinding, directional and interpretive signage enhancements include:

  • Wayfinding signage to help park users navigate between the three parks
  • Directional signage in Art Eggleton Park to guide visitors to the public washrooms located in Bickford Park
  • Interpretive signage along the creek’s path that highlights the history and natural features of Garrison Creek and its valley

The Parks and Trails Wayfinding Strategy improves navigation and connections within the public realm.

Waste Receptacle Servicing and Placement

Waste receptacle servicing and placement are being reviewed to support cleanliness and convenience. This includes:

  • Reviewing servicing schedules to determine whether waste bins are emptied frequently enough, particularly during special events
  • Identifying high traffic areas, such as seating zones and picnic areas, where additional bins may be needed
  • Ensuring waste and recycling options are accessible and appropriately distributed

Flooding and Drainage Assessment

A review of drainage conditions around the parks is planned for spring 2026, when snow melt provides good observation conditions. Areas to be reviewed included features like playgrounds, pathways and seating areas and will identify areas where water pools.

Pits Park district in Toronto. A red outline marks the study area, from Christie Pits Park, south of Barton Avenue to Art Eggleton Park, south of Harbord Street.