Toronto moving ahead with plan to fast-track housing builds near transit routes | CBC News

""We must build more housing, faster, because building more homes means life can be more affordable," said Mayor Olivia Chow at a news conference announcing details of the plan Thursday. The plan, which would require council to approve bylaw changes, could lead to the building of about 1.5 million homes, according to the province. That could include 53,000 affordable homes, Chow said."

"Height limits within 200 metres of certain transit stations would increase to six storeys for buildings in residential neighbourhoods and to 30 storeys for larger sites that could accommodate high-rise builds. The allowances for housing density would also increase in those areas. Mayor Olivia Chow said the changes would help reduce people's reliance on cars. "There's less congestion and less gridlock ... you don't need to pay for gasoline or parking or car insurance," said Chow. "Building more homes near transit hubs just makes common sense.""

"The city is planning to make it easier for developers to build higher near stations by using as-of-right zoning. If passed, development proposals in compliance with bylaws would be pre-approved in the designated areas. In that case, developers would then only need to get site plans approved. "We are cutting the red tape," said Chow. "It'll be a lot faster for home builders to come and get buildings built.""

Toronto will fast-track housing developments and increase density around 120 major transit areas through targeted bylaw and zoning changes. The plan could enable roughly 1.5 million homes, including about 53,000 affordable units. Height limits within 200 metres of selected transit stations would rise to six storeys in residential neighbourhoods and to 30 storeys on larger sites, with increased density allowances. As-of-right zoning would pre-approve compliant proposals, requiring only site plan approval. The measures aim to reduce reliance on cars, ease congestion and lower costs tied to vehicle ownership. Public consultations and council approvals are planned prior to implementation.

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