York Quay residents hear updates on YQNA plans, issues

By Kimberly Spice –

At its general meeting on Sept. 17, the York Quay Neighbourhood Association (YQNA) heard guest speaker Ron Jenkins, sailor and nature photographer, share his concerns about the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (BBTCA) expansion plans.

Approximately 50 people gathered at the Radisson Admiral Hotel on Queens Quay for an update on the YQNA’s activities and to share their questions and concerns about the ongoing debate between the waterfront community and Porter Airlines.

Jenkins presented Porter’s preliminary plans along with detailed statistical information, making it clear to the audience that changes to the Island Airport would have a significant negative impact to the waterfront and the community.

Other issues on the agenda included construction in the area, which will be ongoing for another two years. One resident mentioned there was not enough construction being done to get the waterfront completed within the suggested time frame.

“I don’t have a problem with noise but lack of noise,” stated one gentleman. “They are only working 8 hour shifts, 5 days a week. This job may take 2 years or 5 years. There is just not enough work going on. There’s just a little bit of work going on here, with 2 days here and 2 days over there. I have worked in construction all my life and I’ve never seen such a disorganized job then what we have here.”

Another major concern due to construction is pedestrian’s crossing safety at Lakeshore Boulevard. Driver’s views of pedestrians crossing the street are obstructed by barriers and polls. Jennifer Chan, representative from Adam Vaughan’s office, told audience members that she will follow up with Waterfront Toronto to discuss suggestions and improvements.

Discussion also surrounded the future park area at Rees St. and Queen Quay. A children’s playground is being planned for preschool children and Chan confirmed that information would be shared in the future.

YQNA have a new web page that can be found at www.yqna.ca, with a Twitter account of @YQNA. No Jets T.O. can be located at www.nojetsto.ca.