The City of Toronto's "Housing Now" initiative is making significant strides with the advancement of the 2444 Eglinton Avenue East project. New renderings have been released, showcasing a vibrant and modern design for what is set to become one of Ontario's largest affordable housing developments in the past 25 years. Situated between Kennedy Road and Midland Avenue in Scarborough Centre, the site is currently a parking lot and vacant auto body shop, poised for transformation into a mixed-use residential community.
The development plan includes three towers, delivering a total of 919 housing units. These will comprise 306 non-profit market co-op units, 306 affordable co-op units, and 307 market-rate condominiums. The first phase focuses on constructing 18- and 40-storey co-op buildings, featuring community spaces and retail outlets at street level. The second phase will introduce a 31-storey condominium tower, also incorporating ground-floor retail and parking facilities.
Architectural firm Henriquez Partners Architects has designed the buildings with a distinctive honeycomb pattern, aiming to create a visually appealing and welcoming environment. The design emphasizes sustainability and community integration, aligning with the project's goal of fostering inclusive, transit-oriented living spaces. The site’s proximity to Kennedy TTC Station and GO Transit enhances its appeal, offering residents convenient access to public transportation.
The project is a collaborative effort involving Civic Developments, Windmill Developments, and the Co-operative Housing Federation of Toronto, under the guidance of CreateTO, the city's real estate agency. This partnership exemplifies a model where public, private, and non-profit sectors unite to address housing affordability and urban development challenges.
Despite initial delays, the project has gained momentum, with the Site Plan Approval application for phase one submitted in April 2025. The second phase's application is anticipated by the end of the second quarter of 2025. Upon completion, the development will not only provide diverse housing options but also contribute to the revitalization of the surrounding area, promoting economic growth and community well-being.
The 2444 Eglinton Avenue East project stands as a testament to Toronto's commitment to creating affordable, sustainable, and inclusive communities. As the city continues to address housing needs, this development serves as a model for future initiatives aiming to balance growth with accessibility and quality of life.