Parking Lot to Paradise
The City of Toronto shocked the community last weekend with a sudden $42 million funding announcement for a brand-new indoor aquatic centre and park at Queens Quay and Rees Street.
Stakeholders Caught Off Guard
The unexpected move caught local stakeholders and Waterfront Toronto completely off guard. It will soon transform a city-owned asphalt parking lot opposite the Rees Slip into a massive, year-round community asset.
State of the Art Transformation
The project includes a 2.4-acre greenspace that turns grey pavement into a landmark architectural park. A winter-proof pool will provide a fully enclosed aquatic hub for swimming in all seasons. Food and culture will blend together through integrated cafés, restaurants, and dedicated public art event spaces. Finally, the development improves lake connection by linking the John Street corridor straight to the shores of Lake Ontario.
The Wait
Environmental testing is starting immediately, and the city will launch an international design competition to choose the project’s architect. However, neighbors will have to practice some patience before they can officially dive in. Public consultations are not scheduled to open until 2027. If everything stays on track, the facility expects to open its doors to the public in 2030.