Item - 2026.TE33.51

The Toronto and East York Community Council:

1. Directed the Director, Waterfront Secretariat to provide an update on the implementation of the East-West Water Shuttle Pilot Project no later than the third quarter of 2028.

Waterfront Toronto, together with the City and the Toronto Port Authority are initiating an East-West Water Shuttle Pilot in June 2026 to provide more east-west service across the Inner Harbour. This new service has the potential to reduce vehicular traffic across the central waterfront and provide new opportunities for residents and visitors to move around the central waterfront. Such efforts may assist all modes by increasing capacity and alleviating pressure on road networks, as recommended in the City’s recently updated Congestion Management Plan.

This report is a response to 2025.TE27.88, which directed that staff consult with Waterfront Toronto and the Toronto Police Service, to report back to the May 28, 2026 meeting of the Toronto and East York Community Council on traffic impacts and management in Bathurst Quay related to the pilot.  The report provides a brief background on the objectives and rationale for the pilot and expanding marine transportation options. This report also outlines how access to the water shuttle will be managed, with sensitivity to pre-existing traffic management challenges in the Bathurst Quay Neighbourhood.

Access to quantitative data is central to making informed recommendations to Council regarding changes to constrained transportation networks, such as at Bathurst Quay. City staff will report on a performance review of the water shuttle pilot upon the conclusion of its first term, which is maximum 5 years in duration. This review will be used to assess the impact, and market feasibility of permanently expanded marine transportation options connecting Portland Slip, Yonge Slip and Biidaasige Park.