Toronto Breaks Ground on New Mixed-Income Housing and Cultural Hub

📅 2 weeks ago 🏷️ City of Toronto Municipality

Toronto officials and community organizations have commenced construction on a significant mixed-income housing project that will also house a permanent French-language theatre.

On July 31, 2026, Mayor Olivia Chow, joined by Councillor Paula Fletcher (Toronto-Danforth), and representatives from Woodbourne, Neighbours Community Homes, and Le Théâtre français de Toronto, officially broke ground on a transformative community development project on the Danforth. This initiative will introduce over 400 new mixed-income rental homes in the area, alongside a dedicated space for Toronto’s French-language theatre, Le Théâtre français de Toronto.
The project, situated at 1111 and 1117 Danforth Ave., is designed to include a variety of housing options that cater to different income levels. The development at 1117 Danforth Ave. will comprise affordable, deeply affordable, and market-rate rental units, featuring 27 rental replacement homes, 81 new homes, 40 affordable homes, and 41 rent-controlled homes. This strategic setup aims to foster a cohesive community by blending residents from diverse economic backgrounds and supportive needs.
At the base of 1111 Danforth Ave., the new home for Le Théâtre français de Toronto will serve as a cultural anchor for the community. This partnership emphasizes the importance of integrating cultural amenities within residential developments, enhancing the overall vibrancy of the neighborhood.
The City of Toronto is backing this development with over $13 million in capital funding and more than $14 million in incentives through the Rental Housing Supply Program (RHSP). This program is part of the City’s HousingTO 2020-2030 Action Plan, aimed at increasing the availability of rental homes across the city. The current project stands as one of 50 affordable housing initiatives underway in Toronto, collectively set to produce 14,000 new homes, including more than 4,000 affordable rental units.
The collaboration between the City, Neighbours Community Homes, and Woodbourne has been pivotal. The dual development at 1111 and 1117 Danforth Ave. is designed to share infrastructure, which will help reduce construction costs and expedite timelines for both projects. This coordinated effort has allowed for swift approvals from the City’s Development Review team, ensuring that the non-profit housing project aligns with the private development’s schedule.
Mayor Olivia Chow highlighted the significance of this project, stating, "The new mixed-income community at 1111 Danforth Ave. and 1117 Danforth Ave. exemplifies the potential outcomes when the City collaborates with local partners committed to addressing the housing crisis. These developments will not only provide over 400 new homes but also breathe new life into the neighborhood with essential shops, services, and transit options for a complete community."
Councillor Paula Fletcher echoed the sentiments, emphasizing that the new homes will play a crucial role in stabilizing lives within the community, particularly for residents who have faced homelessness. The integration of Le Théâtre français de Toronto further demonstrates the thoughtful planning behind the project, aimed at creating a community where access to vital amenities and social connections is prioritized.
Nick Macrae, President of Woodbourne, remarked on the necessity of innovative collaborations to meet housing demands, stating, "This partnership illustrates how diverse sectors can unite to achieve a common goal of increasing housing availability, which in turn benefits the local community."
Gautam Mukherjee, CEO of Neighbours Community Homes, added that the goal extends beyond simply providing affordable housing. "We aim to foster inclusive communities where individuals from various backgrounds can thrive together. This collaboration with the City of Toronto and Woodbourne has made this project not only feasible but also a model for future developments, all while enhancing the quality of life for future residents."
Toronto, recognized as Canada’s leading economic engine and a vibrant, diverse city, continues to evolve with such projects. With over three million residents, the city is positioning itself as a global leader in various sectors, including technology, finance, and culture, while also preparing to host significant events like the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Related Posts