Urban Strategies was retained by the City of Toronto to develop a Master Plan for the PATH system, to strengthen the vital role it plays in our downtown core’s well-being, The PATH Master Plan, supported by comprehensive, user-friendly guidelines, provided a broadly endorsed framework for its strategic growth and retrofit, providing our downtown core an edge in attracting new investment. It also prepared Toronto’s downtown core for its expanded role in the Province of Ontario’s ambitious Regional Transportation Plan.

The scope of work included a historical analysis, policy review, study of issues and opportunities, economic analysis, development of a vision and vision statement for the PATH, production of design guidelines, a draft of Official Plan policies and the creation of implementation strategies. These Tasks seamlessly integrated into the creation of a compelling set of Design Guidelines and blended into a PATH Structure and Directions document, which identifies the tools and strategies for the plan’s successful implementation. Working together with the City of Toronto, our multi-disciplinary consultant team ensured that the Design Guidelines and Structure and Directions document reflect the City’s aspirations for the future of the PATH.

In August 2014, a new pedestrian bridge opened, connecting the PATH to Toronto’s waterfront — a key element of our plan.