Toronto Mayor David Miller visited the site of the new western beaches waterfront at Ellis Avenue and Colborne Lodge Drive.
This wetland will improve the quality of storm water runoff naturally.
"Toronto's waterfront is undergoing a renaissance at the moment. This project is part of the revitalization of our waterfront and the City's plans to reclaim the lake for all Torontonians," said Mayor Miller. "The wetlands are designed to treat storm water pollution and also bring natural beauty and bio-diversity to the city."
The wetland is part of the city of Toronto's Wet Weather Flow Master Plan approved by City Council in 2003. The plan is one of the largest planning processes ever undertaken to address the impacts associated with storm water and sewer overflow. The goal of the plan is to reduce, and ultimately eliminate, the adverse effects of wet weather flow - storm water runoff.
"The city is doing its part to improve lake water quality," said Mayor Miller. "This project is an exciting addition to the waterfront initiatives, and is a clear sign that the revitalization of the waterfront is well underway."
Pollution, such as oil, grease and pet waste, is picked up by flowing storm water and ends up in creeks, rivers and Lake Ontario, often causing our beaches to be unsafe for swimming. Other problems can include erosion of riverbanks and loss of fish habitat.
Residents can also help reduce storm water pollution by disconnecting their eavestrough downspout from the sewer system, eliminating the use of pesticides on lawns and gardens, and stooping and scooping pet waste.
The Toronto Waterfront Revitalization initiative includes 10 kilometers along the water's edge: 500 acres of new parks and open spaces; a waterfront promenade reserved for public enjoyment; 40,000 housing units, at least twenty-five per cent of which will be affordable housing; 7.6 million square feet of new commercial space; and 30,000 new permanent jobs.
Source: WWD
