City Planning announces that the Urban Design Streetscape Manual is now available to the public in a new, online format. The manual emphasizes design quality and amenity in the pedestrian realm and serves as a reference tool for streetscape improvements across Toronto.
Streets are a vital part of Toronto's public open space system. They function as movement corridors for pedestrians, cyclists, transit and vehicles, as well as support many social and business activities. Much of the quality of the Toronto's public realm comes from the appearance and character of its streets.
The Streetscape Manual is an urban design reference tool for the improvement of the City's arterial street network - the Main Streets and Green Streets that define and connect neighbourhoods. The Manual focuses on design quality in the public right-of-way, with an emphasis on coherence, beauty, durability, accessibility, pedestrian amenity and tree canopy.
Following a hierarchy of streetscape types, the Manual assigns a set of standard or specialized design treatments to each arterial road. Although the Manual does not typically include collector roads, local roads or laneways, design quality and tree canopy on these streets is also very important.
The design treatments specified in the Manual centre on five streetscape elements - paving, street trees, medians, lighting and street furniture. When applied over time, these design treatments will enhance the appearance, health and enjoyment of the urban landscape.
My spring newsletter is out! Plus: free compost this weekend & 2024 Environment Days.
Read my latest update on engagement and enforcement activities at Tommy Thompson Park and the Leslie Street Spit.
