June 16, 2026
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We are finally getting days of warmth and sunshine and that means we are optimistic about a wonderful summer.
Despite the temptation to relax, our office will be busy supporting residents and businesses and navigating a complex and challenging city. Certainly, there is a lot going on in York Centre and across the city. As part of the FIFA legacy projects, we have opened a new “Soccer Mini-Pitch” in Grandravine Park. This is a wonderful state of the art facility that is allowing players, both young and old, to be active outdoors. On another soccer related note, we launched the FIFA host city festivities at Nathan Phillips Square this past week as the FIFA trophy was on tour.
As a reminder, Rogers Stadium has already started its 20-concert season, and we are making progress with traffic management and sound mitigation. A new entrance to the venue off Allen Road has worked well and a new double lane entrance off Wilson Avenue has also kept traffic out of local neighbourhoods. We remind DUKE Heights business owners there are partial closures of Sheppard Avenue near Chesswood Drive and Allen Road from 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. on concert nights. I have been trying to strike a balance between those attending and enjoying this new venue and those who are negatively impacted by the noise. There is more work to do.
There is also a major water infrastructure project taking place in the area. Local streets such as St. Regis Crescent, Tuscan Gate, Ceramic Road, Ashwarren Road, Bakersfield Street, Steeprock Drive, Rimrock Road, Whitehorse Road, Chesswood Drive, and Sheppard Avenue will be impacted by rotating lane closures as watermain and line rehabilitation takes place. This is to ensure a secure and uninterrupted supply of water to local businesses and homes.
As a reminder, the Seventh Day Adventist Church has a “open fridge” food bank every Wednesday and are seeking donations. Please e-mail Councillor_Pasternak@Toronto.ca for more details or if you would like to donate.
All the best for a successful and relaxing summer. Let’s stay in touch.
Sincerely,
James Pasternak
Toronto City Councillor
Ward 6 – York Centre
