As Toronto gets ready to welcome numerous FIFA World Cup enthusiasts this summer, new homeowners in the city might receive unwelcome news soon, according to information obtained by CBC Toronto. Construction activities in downtown Toronto and along major roads have been significantly restricted from May 1 to July 31 to ensure smooth traffic flow during the six matches that Toronto is set to host.
Builders and developers have expressed concerns to CBC Toronto, stating that the imposed restrictions could lead to delays at hundreds of construction sites, affecting up to 10,000 individuals who are anticipated to move into new residences this year. This estimate is primarily based on the ongoing development of condominium towers, with potential move-in dates being pushed back by up to two months.
Scott McLellan, the COO of Plazacorp, a prominent developer overseeing two residential towers in downtown Toronto, mentioned that buyers expecting to move into these units may need to make alternative living arrangements due to the anticipated delays.
City officials have designated a large area in downtown Toronto where no roadwork will be allowed for an extended period, although the reasons behind this decision remain unclear. The restrictions cover the period when Toronto is scheduled to host six World Cup games between June 12 and July 2 at Toronto Stadium (BMO Field). A map indicating the restricted areas was issued to builders and developers, outlining the specific zones where construction activities are prohibited.
During a recent webinar with builders, the city’s Director of Permits, Dave Twaddle, explained that staging areas could remain, but deliveries would be halted for three days around each World Cup game. Emergency work would be the only exception to road closures within the specified area. Toronto Hydro also confirmed that only emergency work would be prioritized during this period, potentially impacting construction projects requiring electricity connections.
Industry representatives, including Richard Lyall from the Residential Construction Council of Ontario and Justin Sherwood from the Building and Land Development Association (BILD), expressed shock and confusion over the sudden restrictions. They emphasized the potential disruption to various projects in downtown Toronto and urged for constructive dialogue between the city and impacted parties to find feasible solutions.
In response to the industry’s concerns, city officials have indicated a willingness to consider exemptions on a case-by-case basis to support ongoing construction projects. However, industry insiders remain apprehensive about the practical implications and additional costs resulting from the imposed restrictions.
While Toronto grapples with construction challenges ahead of the FIFA World Cup, Vancouver is also gearing up for the event, with builders and developers there having received early warnings about potential road restrictions. Despite the challenges, Vancouver authorities have made efforts to inform businesses about the disruptions and provide necessary resources to navigate the situation.