Toronto, IO shortlist two for George Street project
The City of Toronto and Infrastructure Ontario (IO) have shortlisted two teams to respond to a request for proposals to design, build and finance the project to revitalize George Street in the city’s downtown core.
Invited to bid on the work are teams led by EllisDon – which also includes design support from Adamson Associates Architects, G Architects, Parkin Architects – and Bird, which also includes Diamond Schmitt Architects and IBI Group Architects. The
Announced in November 2020, the City of Toronto’s plan to revitalize George Street calls for approximately 622,000 square feet of new construction and restored heritage buildings.
Some proposed features of the new development are:
- an emergency shelter program with 100 beds for men experiencing homelessness,
- an innovative 130-bed, all-gender transitional living program for people experiencing homelessness who require more intensive health care and substance abuse support,
- a long-term care home with 378 beds to better meet the needs of formerly homeless, vulnerable and elderly individuals,
- 21 units of affordable housing with supports, and
- a community service hub for program clients as well as members of the surrounding community.
The project also includes sidewalk and streetscape improvements (between Dundas Street East and Gerrard Street East), as part of a broader public realm plan for George Street. These improvements will link Moss Park to Allan Gardens and reinforce the identity of the Garden District where the revitalization site is located.
Toronto has contracted IO as the commercial procurement lead and project oversight partner and advisor during construction.
“The George Street Revitalization project when complete will house important services supporting some of our city’s most at-risk communities with new shelter beds, long-term care facilities and community services in a world-class facility in the city’s downtown east,” said Toronto Mayor John Tory. “I look forward to seeing this project come to fruition once building commences.”
IO and the City of Toronto expect to name the project’s successful bidder next summer.