News Release
July 10, 2019

Mayor John Tory was joined today by Councillor Mike Layton (Ward 11 University Rosedale), Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam (Ward 13 Toronto Centre), Martin Wray, Chairperson of the Board of the Downtown Yonge BIA and Vice President of Operations for Cadillac Fairview, and City of Toronto staff to officially reopen College Park.

This multi-year, multi-use redevelopment project has resulted in an exhilarating and engaging outdoor experience that regenerates a vital public space in the heart of downtown.

Among the key elements of the new College Park is the ice rink redevelopment as a five-metre-wide trail, named after iconic Canadian figure skater Barbara Ann Scott. This skate trail, designed to be a walking loop in summer, is the first exterior rink in Ontario to incorporate state-of-the-art CO2 technology in its refrigeration system.

Adjacent to the trail, a dynamic architectural construction of wood, glass and stainless steel has been designed as the new rink house/warming station/Zamboni station. Additional park features include a water fountain and accompanying sculptures.

Funding for the College Park redevelopment was secured through Canderel Stoneridge, the company responsible for the nearby Aura condo at Gerrard and Yonge Streets, with additional funding provided by the City of Toronto.

The redevelopment project is the result of the City collaborating with partners such as the Downtown Yonge BIA, MBTW Group/Watchorn Architect and Project for Public Spaces.

Quotes
“The College Park revitalization is an excellent example of the well-designed public spaces we can create when we work together with a focus on community and what we know our residents want.”
– Mayor John Tory

“I am excited to see College Park become a networking hub for local residents and visitors to the city. This revitalization brings with it a space for people to participate in recreational activity, or spend a moment relaxing in a unique urban environment.”
– Councillor Mike Layton (Ward 11 University-Rosedale)

“This exciting College Park project showcases how this part of Yonge Street, with Canada’s highest pedestrian volumes, can be transformed into a more beautiful and pleasurable space in the city.”
– Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam (Ward 13 Toronto Centre)

“College Park is a green oasis not just for the large and growing residential neighbourhood in Downtown Yonge, but also the thousands of employees, visitors and students looking for a respite from the daily hustle and bustle of city life. Revitalizing the park encourages new uses and brings new activities into the park, to the enjoyment of all community partners as well as Torontonians at large.”
– Mark Garner, COO of Downtown Yonge Business Improvement Area

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Jaclyn Carlisle
Strategic Communications
416-397-5305