Item - 2024.TE18.43

The Toronto and East York Community Council:

1.  Directed the General Manager, Transportation Services to develop a comprehensive implementation plan of the Geary Avenue Mobility and Public Realm Strategy as outlined in the Geary Avenue Works Planning Study that includes but is not limited to the following actions:

a.  introduces road safety and traffic calming measures on Geary Avenue;

b.  recommends improvements to sidewalk and intersection conditions;

c.  provides recommendations for bicycle-supportive infrastructure along the corridor; and

d.  develops a Geary Avenue parking and curbside management plan.

2.  Directed the General Manager, Transportation Services to include action updates on the ten strategic directions identified in the Geary Avenue Mobility and Public Realm Strategy as part of the implementation plan.

3.    Notwithstanding Community Council's decision in Item 2023.TE8.37 (Geary Avenue Mobility and Public Realm Progress Report), Toronto and East York Community Council direct the General Manager, Transportation Services to report back on an implementation plan of the Geary Avenue Mobility and Public Realm Strategy by April 3, 2025.

As part of the Geary Avenue Mobility and Public Realm Strategy, the City of Toronto committed to numerous improvements focused on supporting local neighbourhood growth and improving pedestrian safety on Geary Avenue. Over the past several years, Geary Avenue has grown to include several new small businesses, restaurants, and cultural spaces that welcome thousands of visitors every year to this vibrant area.

In that time of growth, progress on the Geary Avenue Mobility and Public Realm Strategy, including on the ten defined strategic directions, has slowed. Residents and local businesses have shared their concerns regarding continued issues with pedestrian safety, intersection conditions, and a lack of City resources for this growing neighbourhood. An implementation plan is urgently needed to move forward with planned improvements to this vital street.