With the construction of the Eglinton LRT transit line, the city of Toronto is looking to the future of Eglinton Avenue. Eglinton Connects is a plan launched by the city to revitalize and transform the street. The midtown avenue may be set to become a vibrant and thriving destination street.
The city’s plan is to improve the functionality of the street and the aesthetics by reconstructing 11 kilometres of roadway where the LRT will go underground. This section, between Weston Road to the west and Brentcliffe Road to the east, will be revitalized to be more pedestrian and cycling friendly. The street will also be beautified. The city will widen sidewalks and build bike lanes separated from traffic. Larger street trees, better paving and public art will make the street more attractive.
Eglinton will become more of a destination—a place to shop and dine. No longer just a corridor for traffic, it’ll become a place that draws people from around the city to its stores and businesses. As Eglinton becomes more attractive, the plan should also have a positive effect on property values like on St. Clair West, where the streetcar right-of-way project revitalized that street.
The city wants redevelopment. The plan emphasizes new midrise buildings to replace the typically modest two storey buildings along much of the street. High-rise buildings could also be built at intersections with LRT stations. If the city successfully revitalizes the street, it’ll become a popular place to live. A wave of new condo construction will likely happen along Eglinton.
For all the improvements and potential benefits, current residents are understandably enthused. The plan has its challenges, including the $150 million price tag. Much of the work can’t be done until after the completion of the LRT line.
What’s clear, however, is that the Eglinton LRT will make the street more accessible to people from around the city by providing fast and reliable transit. This amenity will be a major selling feature for new condos along its route. Eglinton will also be a more attractive place to invest in. With the right improvements, it will become an attractive destination in the city.
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