Kensington Market Parking Lot to Be Transformed into Affordable Housing, Providing Relief for Nearby Encampment
In a move to address the ongoing issue of homelessness in Toronto, the City has announced plans to convert a parking lot in Kensington Market into affordable housing. The lot, located at 214 Augusta Avenue, is just steps away from a large encampment that has been a source of concern for both residents and officials.
The decision to repurpose the parking lot was made in response to the growing number of individuals experiencing homelessness in the city. According to the City’s most recent street needs assessment, there are over 8,000 people experiencing homelessness in Toronto, with a significant portion living in encampments.
The new affordable housing development will consist of 44 units, with a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. The units will be available to individuals and families with low to moderate incomes, providing much-needed relief for those struggling to find affordable housing in the city.
Mayor John Tory expressed his support for the project, stating that it is a step towards addressing the housing crisis in Toronto. “We know that affordable housing is a critical issue in our city, and this project is a tangible solution that will make a real difference in the lives of those in need,” he said.
The location of the new development is also significant, as it is in close proximity to the encampment at Alexandra Park. This will allow individuals currently living in the encampment to have access to safe and stable housing, while also being able to remain in the same community.
The City has also committed to providing support services for the residents of the new affordable housing development, including mental health and addiction support, employment assistance, and access to community resources.
The project is a joint effort between the City of Toronto, the Toronto Community Housing Corporation, and the Kensington Market Community Land Trust. The development is expected to be completed by 2023, with construction set to begin in the fall of 2021.
This initiative is a positive step towards addressing the issue of homelessness in Toronto and providing much-needed support for those in need. With the conversion of the Kensington Market parking lot into affordable housing, the City is taking a proactive approach to creating a more inclusive and equitable community for all.
