The Bentway, in partnership with the City of Toronto, is launching a search for design services to guide a future phase of The Bentway’s growth.
Bentway Islands is a cumulative 11,500m2 (120,000 sq.ft) of large-scale, underused transportation islands below the Gardiner Expressway between Dan Leckie Way and Spadina Avenue, poised to become one of Toronto’s next great shared public spaces. As part of a growing effort to transform lands under and adjacent-to the Gardiner Expressway into a more welcoming, safe, productive, and sustainable corridor, the project will be an important connector and new piece of Toronto’s waterfront district.
June 2024 update: We are using a civic lottery to form a Community Advisory Committee that will provide feedback on the early designs of this future space. Learn more here!
“The Bentway is excited to work with design leaders who share our ambition to transform the under Gardiner space into a vital extension of Toronto’s public realm. Bentway Islands will continue the creative and catalytic thinking exemplified by the existing Phase 1 site and demonstrate the vital role of hybrid infrastructure in meeting our city’s growing and complex needs.”
Ilana Altman, Co-Executive Director of The Bentway
The Bentway Islands project builds on the success of Bentway Phase 1, The Under Gardiner Public Realm Plan, and recommendations from the City of Toronto for enhanced public amenities for the CityPlace neighborhood. The site, located just south of Canoe Landing Park, offers unique long-term opportunities for critical linkages to the waterfront, expanded recreational and cultural amenities, and climate resilient landscapes.
The Bentway’s objective is to achieve a design for Bentway Islands that continues and builds upon the existing principles and sensibilities demonstrated in Bentway Phase 1, while meeting the unique needs of CityPlace and waterfront communities.
How to submit a proposal:
Proponents are able to download the RFP from MERX and will be required to submit their proposals to Colliers no later than June 4, 2024. The selection of the successful proponent who will become the Prime Design Consultant will happen in mid-June. Thorough submission instructions are included in the RFP. An online proponent information session will be held Tuesday, May 14, 12:30-1:30pm.
The Bentway is excited to invite quality proponents to submit proposals in line with the RFP. Join us in creating a dynamic and inclusive shared public space that will leave a lasting impact on Toronto’s urban landscape!
special thanks to:
The Bentway’s growing family of supporters and partners
