Item - 2026.TE32.54

The Toronto East York Community Council:

1.  Directed the Director, Museums and Heritage Services, Economic  Development and Culture to:

a. undertake a Heritage Landscape Study to determine the best use of Fort York National Historic Site, to inform where and how events are held on the site, and recommendations for how the grounds can be enhanced, with the understanding that Fort York is a significant historic landmark and community landmark that can generate noise for local neighbours; 

b. consult with local residents and stakeholders within the vicinity of the site in development of the plan, including the Friends of Fort York, Fort York Neighbourhood Association, Cityplace Fort York Business Improvement Area and the Bentway; and

c. report back to the July 8, 2026 meeting of the Toronto East York Community Council meeting with an update.

Fort York is an important historic site and its grounds, including Garrison Common, are a site for events and arts and culture for residents of Ward 10 and city wide that make our city a vibrant and exciting place to enjoy.

We also know that residents of Fort York will be welcoming the world to their neighbourhood for the FIFA World Cup this summer, particularly for Fan Fest programming, and we are working with them to ensure they have the best possible information about how to navigate their neighbourhood safely and how to handle noise.

I’ve heard from local residents who have been requesting and looking for more information on how we can best use this site to protect its heritage and support local events in an appropriate way.

A comprehensive Heritage Landscape Study developed through stakeholder and community engagement is needed to determine best use and ways to protect and enhance this historic site.