Feb 11, 2010
HEART PARK – NEXT STEPS

This is an update on the steps being taken to begin construction of Heart Park at 1400 Avenue Road, formerly known as the Otter Bus Loop.  By way of history, the site was declared surplus by the TTC.  In the fall of 2006, a Reserve Account was established for the City to accept donations from the community.  As of August 2007, residents had raised $4,500.00 towards redevelopment of the property.  Post City Magazines has pledged up to $25,000.00.  Remaining funding for the park comes from a Section 37 contribution resulting from the RioCan Real Estate Property at 1075-1745 Avenue Road.  These funds were on hold until the City issued above-grade construction permits for the site.  These contributions were received by the City in late 2009 and have been transferred to the 2010 Capital Budget.

In order to finalize the transfer of jurisdiction of the land to the Parks, Forestry & Recreation (PF&R) Division, a Record of Site Condition with respect to the environmental condition of the property must be posted with the Ministry of Environment.  PF&R is currently working with Facilities and Real Estate to complete that process.

The remaining steps for the Heart Park project are as follows:

Demolition of Existing TTC Shelter and Washroom:

1. Schedule a Designated Substances Audit to check for lead paint, lead pipes, mercury, asbestos, etc in the TTC shelter.

2. Arrange for the disconnection of all utilities (hydro, water, etc) in the shelter.

3. Apply for a demolition permit with the Building Division.

4. Issue a Request For Qualification (RFQ) for a demolition contractor to demolish the shelter and washroom.

Design Process:

1. Conduct a topographical survey of the site after the shelter is removed.

2. Issue a RFQ for a landscape consultant to prepare working drawings based on the approved Heart Park design concept.

3. Present detailed design drawings to the community including the Heart Park Fundraising Committee and Post City Magazines for review and approval.

Construction:

1. Issue a RFQ for a successful landscape contractor to build the park.

2. Turn over the completed park to Parks staff for maintenance.

Circumstances permitting, the completion of Heart Park is targeted for Fall 2010.  If you have any questions about this project, please contact my office at 416-392-4090.
The following file is the winning design for Heart Park – Heart Park Design