Issues > The Downtown

In his last campaign, Dave called for the revitalization of our Downtown. Many important initiatives are now underway. The rear laneway program, running north and south along either side of Yonge Street will provide much needed off street parking as well as easy access to the shops and restaurants. This additional flavour and character will return some of the vibrancy to our Downtown, make it a place where people will want to stroll, to shop and be entertained. The Downtown is the heart of our community. It must be re-energized.

"I want to see a continuity with the past but also a link to the future."

The new Tridel Renaissance development is an excellent beginning. The new Performing Arts Theatre is the next step. Dave has long believed, however, that our downtown redevelopment was a three stage process requiring three separate entities, three anchors in order to make it complete. The Renaissance provides shops and living spaces; the Theatre will provide entertainment and culture; and Dave now plans to deliver that third missing piece, the return of the Town Hall to the Downtown core.

The Town already owns the land at the south/west corner of Yonge and Major MacKenzie. It is an ideal location. Not only is it centrally located and accessible but it is serviced by both north/south and east/west public transit. "The incorporation of other government facilities will make this a true Civic Center and, with the addition of a Town Square, a destination of choice for all residents."

"I am hopeful that the Provincial Government will see the wisdom of providing the much needed court space right there in our Town Hall. It's the most logical location."

Dave proposes to make the new Town Hall as energy efficient as possible. The plan is to review and evaluate several options of energy conservation. These would include, but not be limited to, solar power, a green roof, a geothermal heating and cooling system, wind power and safe bicycle storage areas.

"More people would ride if they had a safe place to store their bike."

Dave expects several public forums on the new Town Hall for everyone's input. "The new Town Hall will become a beacon of the possible, a symbol of who and what we are."

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