Introduction
Regent Park - tucked between Parliament Street, Gerrard, River and Shuter Street - proves that you can reinvent the wheel with a city-backed redux that is raising it from ashes to a vibrant community of city streets, compact blocks, businesses, condos, apartments, community services and a blend of residents from across socio-economic and cultural spectrums.
Lifestyle
Hard-working and committed to community, Regent Park residents have been given a new lease on life. Only halfway into the redux, the community bond is strong and family-focused activities are a mainstay—now with facilities and programs to support and engage within this low-income area. New growth, retail and services within complement the shops and services located along Gerrard, River, and Parliament Streets.
The Vibe
Nothing says new and improved more than Regent Park. Fresh, clean and vibrant with a phenomenal sense of community as redevelopment puts in place cross streets, amenities, housing and businesses for an engaging way of life. Still in the growing stages, former residents and families are eager to return, while newcomers long to ride the wave of growth that has begun.
Meet the Neighbours
Residents come from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds and nationalities, which inspire artistic, cultural and educational activities. More than 60 different first languages are spoken, making Regent Park one of Toronto's most culturally diverse neighbourhoods. Predominantly a low-income area, former residents are returning as homeowners and renters through various funding initiatives, while new buyers are attracted to urban lofts in renovated buildings that offer cosmopolitan living at entry-level prices.
In the Area
New to Regent Park are retail and public spaces for all. The Daniels Spectrum, Regent Park Aquatic Centre and Regent Park Athletic Grounds and the park itself offer lifestyle and recreation programs. The health centre provides youth programs, immigrant assistance and social support. A new cultural centre will be home to local organizations for educational, arts and community programs. There are also two public primary schools and The Parliament Library.
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Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Streetcars travel from Regent Park providing quick access to the Yonge-University-Spadina subway line. The Parliament streetcar connects to Castle Frank station on the Bloor-Danforth subway line. The Don Valley Parkway runs just east of the community, linking to the Gardiner Expressway and Lake Shore Boulevard, making this community very accessible - it's also very pedestrian and bike friendly.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Regent Park was Canada’s oldest social housing project, covering all 69 acres. Until redevelopment began in 2005, it was an area to be avoided – that has changed for the better. While sorely needed, this transformation has displaced residents during construction. Ultimately, most residents will be able to return to new digs, while condo seekers will relish an urban lifestyle in one of the city’s most affordable pockets.
Dollars & Sense
Affordability is key for those starting out, new to the country or those of limited means, and that is the hallmark of the rebuilding of Regent Park. Throughout the metamorphosis, the focus has been on returning former residents to healthier homes geared to their incomes. Funding initiatives have made it possible for former renters to step forward to become homeowners.
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Neighbourhood Hotspots
Regent Park Athletic Grounds
A great addition to the area, the ice hockey rink is already open for business. The basketball court and artificial turf soccer/cricket pitch filled with youths and programmed activities provides much-needed modern recreational facilities.
more infoRegent Park
Built around a park, Regent Park is being returned to its former glory with baseball diamonds, a swimming pool, and small parks throughout, some with children's playgrounds and a wading pool.
Regent Park Aquatic Centre
Located in the heart of Regent Park, this state-of-the-art facility features both a kid's pool and a leisure pool, spa, Tarzan rope, diving board and waterslide, with programs for all ages.
more infoOutdoor Skating Rinks
Outdoor ice rinks welcome pleasure skating, hockey, shinny hockey, learn to skate and hockey school programs. Regent North rink is north of Dundas and River, and Regent South rink is located at Shuter and Sumach.
more infoNelson Mandela Park Public School
School plus a child care centre, community centre and employment centre, Nelson Mandela Park Public School now honours the man with a state-of-the-art retrofit that bridges the gap between education and community.
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