PROJECTS

Innovia is playing a pivotal role in the Rail Deck District project, a visionary mixed-use community proposed for development on the air rights above the Union Station Rail Corridor, stretching from Blue Jays Way to Bathurst Street. As the designated development manager for this transformative 7.02-hectare (17.35-acre) endeavour, comprising 9 towers ranging from 70 to 20 storeys, Innovia is spearheading key aspects of the project. Our responsibilities include leading the Official Plan Amendment, Rezoning, and Site Plan Application processes, crucial elements that shape the project’s regulatory landscape.

Innovia is committed to navigating the intricate development process with precision and expertise. We are actively coordinating with Metrolinx and OnExpress Partners to manage below-grade works, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure. The strategic decision to deck over the rail corridor between Bathurst Street and Blue Jays Way presents a unique, generational opportunity. By leveraging this space, we aim to create a vibrant mixed-use community that not only meets but exceeds the evolving needs of the city.

Innovia recognizes the broader societal impact of the Rail Deck District, emphasizing the development’s potential to address critical aspects such as the provision of public spaces, facilitation of affordable housing, and enhancement of transit connectivity. Through our comprehensive involvement, Innovia is dedicated to realizing the full potential of this transformative project, contributing to the urban fabric of the city and setting new standards for innovative, sustainable, and community-centric development.

In 2019, Innovia Corporation entered into a strategic engagement with Thelo, assuming the crucial role of development manager for the ambitious project centred around the assembly of 1-16 Sumach Street. These plans were meticulously crafted with an eye towards innovation and sustainability, laying the groundwork for the forthcoming rezoning application that aimed to redefine the landscape of the land assembly.

The context of this project is part of a larger plan for housing projects in downtown Toronto, aiming to offer 119 permanently affordable apartments. Pending city approval, the development, with its unique funding model using profits from 324 condos to subsidize affordable units, has the potential to set a precedent for urban mixed-income housing. Designed by GH3, the project seamlessly combines Victorian facades with contemporary elements, showcasing creative architectural solutions. The developers seek approval from Toronto’s Open Door program, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability by accepting reduced profits, but also to address the city’s housing crisis and challenging traditional zoning norms for increased density in amenity-rich areas.

Innovia’s involvement in this multifaceted initiative underscores our commitment to not only meeting but exceeding the unique challenges posed by complex urban development projects, setting the stage for a transformative redevelopment that aligns with the evolving needs of the community and the broader urban environment.

Runnymede Healthcare Centre, in collaboration with Innovia, is advancing the construction of a 200-bed long-term care home adjacent to the existing hospital. By incorporating 200 additional long term care beds on the property, Innovia’s involvement strategically positions Runnymede Healthcare to deliver a comprehensive range of care services, addressing the pressing need to support seniors in the Parkdale – High Park community promptly and alleviate the extensive wait times they currently face. Innovia’s involvement ensures that Runnymede has the property management support to fulfill their mission to provide tailored care for their seniors’ needs while allowing them to remain close to their community.