Item - 2016.NY18.33

North York Community Council recommends that:

1. City Council receive the report (October 31, 2016) from the Director, Community Planning, North York District and Director, Strategic Initiatives, Policy & Analysis, for information.

In early 2016, City Planning initiated a Council-directed study of the Keele Street and Finch Avenue West area. This report provides a summary of the first phase of that Study, which is now known as Keele Finch Plus.

The Keele Finch Plus Study ("the Study") is a comprehensive planning exercise. It will result in an updated planning framework to encourage growth and community building, and aims to leverage nearby investment in rapid transit (both subway and light rail transit). The Study work plan consists of three phases and is anticipated to take about two years to complete. Phase 1 (Study Initiation) is the focus of this report.

Building on the work completed as part of Council's approved Finch Corridor Planning Approach, City Planning undertook a number of 'taking stock' measures as part of Phase 1 of Keele Finch Plus. This included public engagement to start the conversation about local needs and desires, and to understand how the area is used as a place to live, work, learn and play.

Phase 1 also included three technical studies. As the Keele Street and Finch Avenue West area is under the flight path of Downsview Airport, City Planning undertook work to understand the airport's operations and flight paths. The goal of this work was to understand what potential there may be for building height and location in a way that does not impact airport operations. Similarly, there are significant industrial operations nearby, including large fuel storage and distribution facilities. City Planning initiated environmental related work to understand separation distances between industrial facilities and potential new sensitive uses. Third, and finally, a transportation analysis was conducted to identify existing transportation conditions.

This report also summarizes the Phase 1 findings and emerging issues derived from results of research, technical analysis and feedback from community consultation. Examples include those related to land use and compatibility, housing choice, transportation and movement, and a desire for improved walkability, beautification and safety. This will inform future options in Phase 2 (plans and analysis) of the Study.