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FORUM: Queen’s Park North to get major upgrade (July 2026)

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FORUM: Queen’s Park North to get major upgrade (July 2026)

August 10th, 2026 · No Comments

Green energy initiatives are finally competitive

By Dianne Saxe

A special note of condolence and thanks to our police, fire, and paramedic services

Our city has suffered a heartbreaking loss this month with the death of Toronto Police Constable Marc Pinizzotto. This moment stands as a painful reminder of the immeasurable debt we owe to our police, as well as Toronto’s paramedics, firefighters and first responders, who give so much to protect our communities every day. We owe them our gratitude and enduring support. The demands placed on police, fire, and paramedic services this summer have been extraordinary. These professionals continue to serve our city with dedication, courage, and compassion, often under the most difficult of circumstances.

Thank you.

Building a stronger and more liveable Toronto

One of the great privileges of serving as your city councillor is seeing years of hard work turn into real results. This month brought several important milestones that will help make University–Rosedale—and Toronto as a whole—more liveable, sustainable, and resilient.

One of the most exciting pieces of news in our ward is that the Queen’s Park North Concept Plan has now been unanimously approved by both the infrastructure and environment committee and city council. Thanks to an unprecedented and  extraordinarily generous private donation, twinned with years of collaboration among community members, experts, and city staff, this beloved public space is set for a remarkable renewal.

The revitalization will put the park’s magnificent trees first, helping them recover from years of soil compaction and damage while preserving the heritage features that make Queen’s Park so special. All existing public art will remain, including the beloved Great Oak Bench and the historic fountain. The plan will also create new opportunities for people to enjoy the space, with improved pathways, a restored running track, gardens, storytelling and water features, additional seating, a café, and public washrooms. It will open up the heart of the park by relocating the statue of King Edward VII closer to the legislature while ensuring that the park remains a welcoming and accessible destination for everyone. This is exactly the kind of city-building project I love: one that protects our natural heritage while making public spaces more beautiful, functional, and enjoyable.

Building a liveable city also means protecting the services people rely on every day. Residents will be pleased to know that 311 is becoming easier to use, with improvements already underway and more enhancements planned. While customer service upgrades may not always make headlines, they have a direct impact on people’s daily interactions with city government, and they help residents get answers and assistance more quickly.

I was also pleased to successfully advocate for the return of foam dumbbells in city aquafit classes. Originally removed by staff, many seniors felt their independence and judgment were being discounted. We raised the issue directly with senior parks leadership and brought them back. Seniors deserve opportunities to stay active, build strength, and make informed decisions about their own health and fitness. A great city supports residents of all ages and respects their ability to make choices about their own well-being.

I’m also encouraged by the progress we’re seeing on clean energy. Recent provincial electricity procurements showed that solar, wind, and battery storage can now outcompete gas-fired power on cost alone—a win for affordability, energy security, public health, and the environment. Here in Toronto, years of advocacy are translating into real results, with Toronto Hydro expanding support for electric heating, electric vehicles, and new housing. At the same time, the city has begun removing outdated zoning barriers that make it harder for residents to install heat pumps, EV chargers, insulation, and renewable energy technologies, helping households save money while reducing emissions.

Canada’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ performance has filled our country with pride, showcasing skill, resilience, and putting us on the map as a world-class soccer nation. There are so many opportunities to join in the festivities or join friends and neighbours at a local spot to cheer on your team. I’ll be watching the finals at Café Diplomatico, so come on by and say hello!

Finally, a personal note: Toronto’s municipal election will take place on Oct. 26, and I will be seeking re-election as your city councillor. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, from improving parks and public spaces, to building more affordable housing, advancing climate action, and strengthening community services— this work requires persistence, collaboration, and long-term thinking. There is always more work ahead, but we’re making real progress together towards building a city that is affordable, sustainable, safe, and welcoming for everyone. Thank you for your engagement, your ideas, and your commitment to making University–Rosedale—and Toronto—a better and more liveable place to call home. 

Dianne Saxe is city councillor for Ward 11, University-Rosedale.

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Tags: Annex · Opinion

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