"One key feature of this project which has not proceeded as promised is an east-west connection path between Antler Street and Lappin Avenue—something which I have always supported."
Statement on Davenport Diamond Greenway Antler-Lappin Connection
Metrolinx’s Davenport Diamond Greenway will deliver much-needed linear green space in our community under the new Davenport Diamond Guideway rail grade-separation project. From the beginnings of this project in 2015, our community has been strongly advocating for a responsive design and community benefits, especially new neighbourhood connections.
I salute the leadership of residents in keeping accountable promises made to Davenport. One key feature of this project which has not proceeded as promised is an east-west connection path between Antler Street and Lappin Avenue—something which I have always supported.
An east-west connection from Antler Street to Lappin Avenue would connect residents to local parks, schools, businesses – and to each other.
While this connection was included in original plans for the Greenway, it was later removed by Metrolinx and deemed “out of scope”, without consulting or notifying the community. The abrupt removal was disappointing and the community’s repeated support for the Antler-Lappin connection shows the project cannot be left in limbo.
I’m ready to work with Metrolinx and explore all available tools to make the Antler-Lappin connection a reality. At the next meeting of Toronto City Council, I will be moving a motion to affirm support for a connection between Antler Street and Lappin Avenue, renew dialogue between the City of Toronto and Metrolinx on this issue, and examine all tools at the City’s disposal to move this project forward.
Background
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The Antler-Lappin east-west connection was originally identified as a community priority in a 2015 report from the Residents’ Reference Panel on the Davenport Community Rail Overpass which was assembled by Metrolinx to provide recommendations on the project’s design.
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The east-west connection was later affirmed by Metrolinx’s 2016 Davenport Diamond Design Direction Report
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In 2018, Metrolinx cancelled the public realm work that had been done to date and produced a new design from scratch that did not include the connection.
Media Contact
Spencer Julien
416-338-5293
[email protected]
