| City of Toronto Update on COVID-19 |
| August 26, 2020
City of Toronto update on COVID-19
The City of Toronto continues to respond to COVID-19. Today, Toronto’s Medical
Officer of Health, Dr. Eileen de Villa, provided an update on the City’s response
and recovery and rebuild progress.
There are 15,866 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 33 since
yesterday. There are 44 people hospitalized. In total, 14,401 people have
recovered from COVID-19, an increase of 32 since yesterday. To date, there have
been 1,167 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto. Case status data can be found on
the City’s reporting platform: http://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/
covid-19-latest-city-of-toronto-news/covid-19-status-of-cases-in-toronto/.
COVID-19 continues to circulate in the community. Residents are reminded to
continue adhering to Toronto Public Health’s advice to practise physical distancing,
stay within their social circle of no more than 10 people, wash hands often
and wear a mask or face covering where mandatory or when physical distance
cannot be maintained. Wearing a mask or face covering is required in indoor
public spaces in Toronto.
As parents, caregivers and children prepare for back-to-school, Toronto Public
Health is stressing the need to maintain physical distance and wear a mask
or face covering when shopping in a store, mall or flea market for back to school
supplies. Those shopping in person are encouraged to shop at times stores may
be quieter or to try shopping online, when possible. Always wash or sanitize your
hands after being in a store or public place and do not go out if you feel ill.
More information and guidance for retail spaces is available online:
https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/9084-COVID-19-Guidelines-
for-Malls-and-Shopping-Centres.pdf.
Provincial orders under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19)
Act and the City bylaw on physical distancing remain in effect. Yesterday,
the City received 34 complaints related to parks use and physical distancing.
Officers have cautioned more than 4,200 people this month about physical
distancing, alcohol, bonfires and littering bylaws. This month, enforcement officers
have issued 42 tickets related to liquor, open fires and social distancing.
As more of the city’s businesses continue to reopen, residents can learn about
what to expect and what is required as Toronto moves into the new normal
and they begin to visit more establishments and take part in more activities
at https://www.toronto.ca/ReopenTO. Safe reopening guidelines for businesses
and organizations are also available at http://www.toronto.ca/Reopening.
The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice and information
about City services, social supports and economic recovery measures.
Check http://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before
contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 26, 2020 |
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| City of Toronto Registration of Short-Term Rentals to Launch September 10 |
| August 25, 2020
City of Toronto registration of short-term rentals to launch September 10
This September, the City of Toronto will launch a new online registration system
for short-term rental operators who are renting their homes on a short-term basis
for a period of less than 28 consecutive days.
Beginning September 10, 2020, short-term rental operators will need to start
registering with the City in order to operate in Toronto. Registration is a necessary
first step to allow the City to effectively administer the new rules applicable to
short-term rentals. People who are currently renting their home on a short-term
basis, or planning to do so, must be registered by December 31, 2020. After this
date,
all new operators will be able to register on an ongoing basis and must register
prior to short-term renting their homes.
Registration for short-term rentals and related payment processing will be
available online. People can learn about the rules and view more details
on the government identification and the information needed for registration
at https://toronto.ca/ShortTermRentals.
In Toronto, short-term rentals are regulated by the City’s zoning bylaws
and the Licensing and Registration of Short-Term Rentals bylaw:
• City bylaws permit short-term rentals across Toronto in all housing types in
residential zones and the residential components of mixed-use zones.
• People can short-term rent their principal residence only. This is the residence
where they live and where the address is used for bills, identification, taxes
or insurance.
• Both homeowners and renters in any housing type (for example house,
apartment, or condominium) are allowed to short-term rent their home.
• People can rent up to three bedrooms in their principal residence for
an unlimited number of nights per year or their entire home for a maximum of
180 nights per year.
• People can host a short-term rental in a secondary suite (for example
a basement apartment) or a laneway suite, as long as the suite is their principal
residence.
People can short-term rent their homes in Toronto only if they are a registered
operator. A valid City-issued registration number must be included in all
advertisements and listings.
Registered short-term rental operators will need to start collecting and remitting
the four per cent Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) on a quarterly basis
starting January 1, 2021. More information on how to collect and make
the MAT payments will be provided in fall 2020.
The City will also require short-term rental companies to obtain a licence from
the City in order to carry on business in Toronto. A short-term rental company is
any company facilitating or brokering short-term rental reservations online
and receiving payment for this service, such as Airbnb, Expedia and Booking.com.
The City is currently working with short-term rental companies on the licensing
process and more information is available on the City’s website.
On December 7, 2017 and January 31, 2018, Toronto City Council approved
the regulations for short-term rentals. The City’s zoning bylaw amendments to
permit short-term rentals as a use were appealed to the Local Planning Appeal
Tribunal (LPAT).
On November 18, 2019 the LPAT issued a ruling that dismissed the appeals
and upheld City Council’s adopted zoning bylaw amendments for short-term
rentals. Since November 2019, the City has worked to implement the short-term
rental rules. Despite further delays resulting from the redirection of resources to
respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City is now ready to launch
the short-term rental registration portal.
With the registration for short-term rental operators beginning in September,
over the next few months, the City will educate the public on the rules, encourage
operators to register their short-term rentals, and work with companies to ensure
compliance with the licensing rules.
The City continues to respond to short-term rental issues on a complaint basis.
Residents can contact 311 to report issues related to short-term rentals,
such as noise, waste and concerns if others are renting homes that are not their
principal residence.
More information about short-term rentals can be found at https://toronto.ca/
ShortTermRentals.
Quotes:
“This is good news for Toronto residents and a step in the right direction when it
comes to regulating short-term rentals and maintaining the peace and quiet of
our neighbourhoods. This system will provide crucial oversight of operators
and ensure that they are held accountable and only operate within their principal
residences.”
- Mayor John Tory
“We have been fighting for balanced rules for short-term rentals,
and with the rules now in action, we have an opportunity to give people
the flexibility to short-term rent their homes for extra income while minimizing
impact on the availability of housing. We are making progress – the launch of
the registration system for short-term rentals will be another important milestone
in our efforts to provide long-term rental housing options for residents.”
- Deputy Mayor Ana Bailão, (Ward 9 Davenport), Chair of the Planning
and Housing Committee
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 25, 2020 |
| |
| West Nile virus in Toronto for 2020 |
| August 25, 2020
Toronto Public Health reports first human case of West Nile virus in Toronto
for 2020
Toronto Public Health has received a positive laboratory report identifying
Toronto's first reported case of West Nile virus for 2020 in an adult resident.
West Nile virus is an infection transmitted to people through the bite of
an infected mosquito.
While the risk of getting infected in Toronto is currently low, Toronto Public Health
advises residents to take these precautions to avoid bites from infected
mosquitoes:
• Wear light-coloured clothing, long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors.
• Apply insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin and follow the manufacturer's
instructions.
• Take extra care during peak mosquito-biting hours, dusk and dawn, by using
repellent and covering up.
• Make sure your home has tight-fitting screens on windows and doors.
• Remove standing water from your property, where mosquitoes can breed.
Standing water includes any water that collects in items such as buckets, planters,
toys and waste containers.
West Nile virus symptoms usually develop between two and 14 days after
a person is bitten by an infected mosquito. Symptoms may include fever,
headache, nausea, vomiting, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands.
Older individuals or individuals with compromised immune systems are at higher
risk of severe illness. If you or a family member has concerns about
any symptoms, contact your health care provider.
In 2019, nine laboratory-confirmed human cases of West Nile virus
and 10 positive
mosquito tests were reported to Toronto Public Health. An important part of
the City's mosquito surveillance and monitoring is larviciding city catch basins
and stagnant water sites where immature mosquitoes (larvae) have been
identified reduces the risk of West Nile virus.
More information is available at https://www.toronto.ca/community-people
/health-wellness-care/health-programs-advice/west-nile-virus/.
Quote:
"While the likelihood of becoming infected with West Nile virus is low in our city,
now is a good time to remind residents of simple actions they can take
when enjoying the outdoors to further minimize the potential risk. These actions
include wearing insect repellent and light-coloured clothing, long pants
and long-sleeved shirts to prevent getting bitten by an infected mosquito."
- Dr. Eileen de Villa, Toronto's Medical Officer of Health
Media contact: Keisha Mair, Toronto Public Health,
416-338-8020,
Keisha.Mair@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 25, 2020 |
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| City of Toronto Update on COVID-19 |
| August 24, 2020
City of Toronto update on COVID-19
The City of Toronto continues to respond to COVID-19. Today, Toronto’s
Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Eileen de Villa, provided an update on the City’s
response and recovery and rebuild progress.
There are 15,808 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 33 since
yesterday. There are 44 people hospitalized, a decrease of three.
In total, 14,350 people have recovered from COVID-19, an increase of 21 since
yesterday. To date, there have been 1,165 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto – with
no deaths since yesterday. Case status data can be found
on the City’s reporting
platform: http://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-latest-city-of-toronto-
news/covid-19-status-of-cases-in-toronto/.
As COVID-19 continues to circulate in the community, residents are reminded to
continue adhering to Toronto Public Health’s advice to practise physical
distancing,stay within their social circle of no more than 10 people, wash hands
often and wear a mask or face covering where mandatory or when physical
distance cannot be maintained. Wearing a mask or face covering is required in
indoor public spaces in Toronto.
Provincial orders under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to
COVID-19)
Act and the City bylaw on physical distancing remain in effect. Yesterday,
the City received 42 complaints related to parks use and physical distancing.
Officers have cautioned more than 4,100 people this month about physical
distancing, alcohol, bonfires and littering bylaws. This month, enforcement
officers have issued 38 tickets related to liquor, open fires
and social distancing.
As more of the city’s businesses continue to reopen, residents can learn about
what to expect and what is required as Toronto moves into the new normal
and they begin to visit more establishments and take part in more activities
at https://www.toronto.ca/ReopenTO. Safe reopening guidelines for businesses
and organizations are also available at http://www.toronto.ca/Reopening.
The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice
and information about City services, social supports and economic recovery
measures. Check http://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common
questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 24, 2020 |
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| Healthy Babies Healthy Children Program |
| August 24, 2020
Toronto Public Health resumes in-person home visits for Healthy Babies Healthy
Children program
Starting today, Toronto Public Health (TPH) nurses will begin a phased-in
approach to resume in-person home-visiting services to eligible priority families
as part of the Healthy Babies Healthy Children (HBHC) program. Now that Toronto
has entered Stage 3 of the provincial reopening plan, TPH is resuming
the in-person part of the program for families with young children in the HBHC
program.
As with many other organizations across the city, TPH had to temporarily pause
some programs and services due to COVID-19 physical distancing requirements.
One of the TPH programs impacted was HBHC, which had to suspend in-person
home visits to protect the health of our clients and staff. Given the importance of
this program, TPH provided a modified virtual model over the past few months to
support residents during the pandemic. A key focus of resuming in-person visits is
ensuring adherence to required public health measures, including COVID-19
symptom screening of clients and staff.
TPH’s HBHC program is a free home-visiting service supporting clients with:
• having a healthy pregnancy
• developing a positive relationship with their child
• promoting their child’s growth and development
• connecting families to resources and programs within their community
• working together to give their child the best start in life
TPH continues to manage the local COVID-19 response, and is actively planning
for a potential second wave in COVID-19 activity. Resumption of other critical
TPH programs and services is underway within existing capacity and resources.
Given the unpredictability of the virus, TPH may need to readjust programming
and staff resources in order to addresses any surges in the pandemic.
For more information about HBHC, and to find out who is eligible, please
go to: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/children-parenting/
pregnancy-and-parenting/pregnancy/during-pregnancy/prenatal-programs/
healthy-babies-healthy-children/
Quotes:
“I'm glad to see the resumption of in-person visits of the Healthy Babies Healthy
Children program for families across our city as it plays a vital role in building
a healthy foundation for children. As Toronto continues to reopen, we are doing
everything possible to support residents and ensure that our City’s services keep
people safe and healthy. I want to thank staff at Toronto Public Health for
providing this important program virtually and for preparing the safe restart of
in-person visits.”
- Mayor John Tory
In the midst of the COVID pandemic our team at Toronto Public Health has
worked tirelessly to continue providing the many services that Torontonians rely
on. The Healthy Babies Healthy Children program is such a service. During
the pandemic this critical service for new parents was quickly modified
and delivered remotely. I’m delighted the program will now return with in-person
visits following our successful reopening efforts.”
- Councillor Joe Cressy (Ward 10 Spadina-Fort York), Chair of the Board of Health
“The global COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on residents,
local businesses, and our city. TPH provides many programs and services, which
have also been impacted, including HBHC in-person home visiting, which was
temporarily paused due to physical distancing requirements to keep clients
and staff safe. We are now pleased to resume the in-person part of this core
program that offers important supports to families with young children throughout
our city.”
- Dr. Eileen de Villa, Medical Officer of Health, Toronto Public Health
Media contact: Lenore Bromley, Toronto Public Health,
416-338-7974,
Lenore.Bromley@toronto.ca |
| More.. | Posted: Aug 24, 2020 |
| |
| City of Toronto Issues $300 Million Bond to Help Fund Key Capital Projects |
| August 24, 2020
City of Toronto issues $300 million bond to help fund key capital projects
The City of Toronto has issued a new debenture to help finance capital
expenditures from 10 different City divisions and agencies. This is the City’s third
debenture issuance this year and marks the lowest ever 20-year cost of funding
for the City with an all-in cost of 2.218 per cent.
This $300 million conventional bond issue, with a 20-year maturity and a coupon
interest rate of 2.15 per cent, will mature on August 25, 2040. It was issued
August 11 and will settle on August 25, 2020.
This issuance has a total of 41 buyers but was oversubscribed by nearly double.
This demonstrates the confidence investors have in the City of Toronto
and the local economy. Although COVID-19 has had a significant economic impact
across the globe, capital markets are optimistically focused on rebuilding
economies. Investor demand remains strong and the bond market continues to
be
favorable for the City to issue debentures.
The proceeds from this issuance will be used to help fund previously approved
capital expenditures from several City divisions and agencies, including Shelter,
Support & Housing Administration, Transportation Services, Toronto Public Library
and Senior Services and Long-Term Care.
Toronto has one of the largest municipal borrowing programs in Canada.
It is a regular issuer in the public Canadian debt market, with several sinking fund
debentures each year. Debenture issues are initially distributed and traded by
several Canadian investment dealers. Retail investors can contact their financial
institutions to inquire about investing in the City of Toronto’s debentures.
More information about the City's Debenture Programs is available
at https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/budget-finances/city-finance/
investor-relations/.
The Report to Debenture Committee is available at https://www.toronto.ca/
legdocs/mmis/2020/db/bgrd/backgroundfile-155734.pdf.
Quotes:
“Even in the midst of a global pandemic, an increasing number of investors
are looking for stable and socially responsible investment opportunities.
The City is happy to partner with investors to deliver tangible, sustainable
and financially responsible outcomes. The low cost of borrowing will help us
finance more key capital projects that support the City’s recovery and rebuild
efforts.”
- Mayor John Tory
“Expressions of interest were almost double for the $300 million sold.
The success of this deal is a positive indication how investors feel about
the City of Toronto. The funds from the bonds will ensure that we can make
important investments to maintain and improve the City for present and future
generations.”
- Councillor Gary Crawford (Ward 20 Scarborough-Southwest), Budget Committee
Chair
“As much as the markets are vulnerable at the moment due to the economic
impacts of COVID-19, the City had a very strong placement. This speaks strongly
to the credibility of the City and the confidence investors have in us as
an organization.”
- Heather Taylor, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca |
| More.. | Posted: Aug 24, 2020 |
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| Roehampton Shelter Client Assaulted |
| August 23, 2020
Roehampton shelter client assaulted
The City of Toronto thanks the Toronto Police Service, Toronto Paramedic
Services, on-site security and City staff for their swift action in responding to
an assault of a client outside the Roehampton temporary housing program last
night. Staff administered first aid to the client’s stab wound. Police
and paramedics were called and the victim was transported to hospital
with non-life threatening injuries.
This serious incident occurred at approximately 10 p.m. where a City client
at the Roehampton temporary shelter at 808 Mount Pleasant Road was stabbed
and assaulted by three individuals outside the facility. None of the individuals
are City clients at the Roehampton site.
Security on-site noticed and heard an incident between a number of individuals
and the client staying at the Roehampton site. On-site security immediately
saw the incident start to unfold on video surveillance and was on scene
immediately.
Police have reviewed the Roehampton site’s video surveillance footage
and concluded their on-site investigation. The police’s criminal investigation of
this incident is ongoing and they have issued a news release this afternoon.
City staff are working with police to provide any assistance it can offer.
The City is hopeful for a full and speedy recovery for the victim. The City is
supporting staff who were on shift and work at the Roehampton site.
As part of the COVID-19 response plan, the City leased the Roehampton in
the Mount Pleasant Road and Eglinton Avenue East area for two years,
with an option to extend to a third, as a temporary shelter. This hotel was slated
for demolition and will be part of a future redevelopment application by
the property owner. Clients began moving into Roehampton on July 3.
This site has 109 units for up to 174 clients and is run by City staff.
It is one of 17 hotel locations activated since mid-March.
The site offers case management, housing search help, meals, harm reduction
and recreational programming. Outdoor space within the property has been
created so that clients have a place to spend time outdoors without having to
be in front of the building.
Security measures and community supports already implemented include:
• Routine perimeter walks of the property by security guards
• Community Safety Team picking up hazards such as needles
and monitoring 24/7 for inappropriate activity
• City Corporate Security mobile patrols and 33 cameras throughout the site
• Toronto Police Services’ Community Response Unit visiting the site regularly.
• Security measures and community supports to be implemented at the earliest
possible date include:
o The City is also engaging Inner City Health Associates to begin providing
physician, nursing and psychiatric supports Toronto Public Health – The Works,
which provides harm reduction services, will be on site twice per week. The City is
working with local schools on a safety and security plan for when school resumes
o The City is hiring additional housing workers to be assigned full-time to the site.
These workers will provide individualized supports and housing search assistance
while referring clients to mental health professionals, employment services,
skills training, harm reduction and addictions counselling, and other supports
as needed.
Since mid-March, when COVID-19 began to circulate in Toronto, the City has
moved more than 3,500 people throughout its emergency shelter system,
including more than 1,500 individuals who have been transitioned to permanent
housing, to achieve physical distancing of two metres between shelter beds,
in accordance with Ministry of Health guidance for congregate living settings.
The City took these urgent actions in order to save lives and protect vulnerable
people, who are at greater risk of COVID-19 related harms.
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca |
| More.. | Posted: Aug 23, 2020 |
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| A Heat Warning for the city of Toronto on Sunday and Monday |
| August 22, 2020
Modified Heat Relief Network in place for Heat Warning starting tomorrow
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has declared a Heat Warning for
the City of Toronto on Sunday, August 23 and Monday, August 24.
ECCC issues a Heat Warning when it forecasts two or more consecutive days
with daytime maximum temperatures of 31°C or warmer, together with minimum
nighttime temperatures of 20°C or warmer, or when there is a forecast of two
or more consecutive days with humidex values expected to reach 40 or higher.
Extreme heat is associated with negative health impacts ranging from heat stress
to heat stroke and death. During periods of hot weather, the safety of all residents
is the priority.
The City of Toronto’s modified Heat Relief Network will be in place for the Heat
Warning. It features a wide array of cool spaces that are open during and beyond
Heat Warnings and others open only during Heat Warnings. It includes pools,
wading pools, splash pads, community centres and, during Heat Warnings,
Emergency Cooling Centres (ECCs) for the public.
The network now includes:
• 72 Toronto Public Library branches that are open for Stage 3 service,
which can be used for cooling as of August 24.
• 47 community centres and pools that have space, including lobby space
and seating, for residents to use for indoor cooling
o 16 are open seven days a week, on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
and on weekends from noon to 4 p.m.
o 31 are open on weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• More than 300 aquatic amenities including the City’s 140 splash pads,
100 wading pools, 56 outdoor swimming pools and 29 indoor pools.
Select outdoor swimming pools feature extended hours, open until 11:45 p.m.
• Decisions to extend pool hours are made daily when a Heat Warning is in place,
based on weather risks and resource availability. Up-to-date information
on extended pool hours and a list of locations will be available
at http://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/alerts/swim/index.html. For information
on pools and regular operating hours call 311 or visit http://www.toronto.ca/swim.
• For this Heat Warning, the following ECCs will be available for those who
do not have access to a cool space and cannot keep cool in their home
or outdoors:
o Metro Hall, 55 John St., open 11 a.m. on Sunday and remains open overnight
until 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 24
o Mimico-Coronation Club House, 10 Judson St., open on Sunday only,
11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
o Masaryk-Cowan Community Recreation Centre, 220 Cowan Ave., open
on Sunday only, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
ECC locations offer a publicly accessible, air-conditioned place to rest indoors
and receive a cool drink. Staff who are trained to assist residents affected by
the extreme heat are on hand. Strict infection prevention and control measures
are in place.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, the City is adapting its approach
to provide as much access to heat relief as possible and to reflect the advice
and direction from Toronto Public Health, as well as the provincial and federal
governments. Additional cool spaces will be added, as they become available.
As more Heat Relief Network spaces open to the public, the ECC program may be
further amended or withdrawn.
In 2019, the City adopted the approach to mitigating heat through the Heat Relief
Network. Residents were able to access approximately 300 cool, public spaces
throughout the summer season including libraries, community centres, shelters,
drop-ins, 24-hour respite sites, several private and non-profit organizations
including some shopping malls and YMCA locations, as well as pools, wading
pools and splash pads. At the start of this year’s hot weather season,
the City had to modify its approach to heat relief because the network sites were
closed due to COVID-19.
An interactive map is available online to help those who need to access a cool
space find a location near them: http://www.toronto.ca/community-people/
health-wellness-care/health-programs-advice/hot-weather/cool-spaces-near-you/.
It is mandatory for the public to wear masks or face coverings,
with some exceptions, in all indoor public spaces, including ECCs and libraries.
A mask will be provided at ECCs to those without a mask who want to enter.
The City’s updated 2020 Heat Relief Strategy reflects the current public health
advice related to COVID-19, with guidance for safely operating apartment
building cooling rooms and other tips for apartment building landlords
and tenants. More information for landlords is available http://www.toronto.ca/
community-people/housing-shelter/rental-housing-standards/
apartment-building-standards/rentsafeto-for-building-owners/.
Community agencies are encouraged to educate clients on the risks of
heat-related illness and to call, text or video chat with those clients who are
at increased risk of heat-related illness during Heat Warnings. The City has
prepared guidance for community agencies, places of worship, and other
organizations interested in opening their own cool spaces http://www.toronto.ca/
home/covid-19/covid-19-reopening-recovery-rebuild/
covid-19-reopening-guidelines-for-businesses-organizations/
covid-19-guidance-cooling-rooms/.
Frequently Asked Questions about Community-run Cooling Rooms are available
http://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/
9096-communitycoolingroomsfaq.pdf.
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 22, 2020 |
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| Update on City of Toronto Programs and Services this Weekend |
| August 21, 2020
Update on City of Toronto programs and services this weekend
As COVID-19 continues to circulate in the city, residents are urged to follow
Toronto Public Health advice to wash their hands often, practise physical
distancing, wear a face covering or mask in all indoor public spaces when going
out this weekend, and stay home when ill.
The age distribution of reported COVID-19 cases continues to shift to younger
age groups. In the last two weeks, the average age of positive cases was
39 years old, compared to 52 years overall for the entire outbreak. While younger
cases have not been made severely ill by COVID-19 and are less likely to be
hospitalized, they can still transmit the virus to others, especially to vulnerable
groups. In Toronto, many young people live with multi-generational families,
and make up a large part of our service-based workforce. All residents,
regardless of age, must follow public health advice to keep our city safe.
Beaches
Toronto beaches are open, including the four Toronto Island Park beaches.
Lifeguards supervise swim areas from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily. People
should only swim in the swim zones marked by yellow and red flags as these
areas are lifeguard supervised. There is no lifeguard supervision of Rouge Valley
Beach. For more information on the City’s beaches visit https://www.toronto.ca/
beaches.
It can be unsafe to swim, even at designated swimming beaches, for 48 hours
after a rainfall due to the possible presence of high levels of bacteria that could
pose a risk to human health. Toronto Public Health posts water quality reports
for local beaches online at http://app.toronto.ca/tpha/beaches.html.
Residents visiting a beach or park must practise physical distancing, avoid
crowding, and behave responsibly. Bonfires on beaches, and organized parties,
with excessive drinking and DJs with amplification of sound, are prohibited.
Last weekend, 10 tickets were issued at Toronto’s beaches under the Emergency
Management and Civil Protection Act and Chapter 608, for violations including
the consumption of alcohol, creating a nuisance and making bonfires.
Bylaw officers, Toronto Police and Toronto Fire will have a highly visible presence
at beaches and parking lots to ensure that crowds, bonfires and other prohibited
activities do not occur or are dealt with quickly should they occur.
Bylaw enforcement officers and Toronto Police will issue tickets related to bylaw
infractions, including littering. Under the City’s Parks bylaw, parks and beaches
are closed from 12:01 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. As needed this weekend, enforcement
officers will be enforcing beach closure hours and clearing beaches
after 12:01 a.m.
Parking restrictions are in place at Toronto beaches on Friday, Saturday
and Sunday evenings. Parking restrictions will be in place at the following beaches
starting at 7 p.m. on Friday: Marie Curtis Park, Humber Bay West Park, Humber
Bay East Park, Cherry Beach and Bluffer’s Park. Toronto Police will be present
at all parking lot entrances. Vehicles leaving beach parking lots after 7 p.m.
will be able to do so freely. Parking enforcement will also have a significant
presence, with tagging and towing of illegally parked vehicles in the vicinity of
beaches where parking is restricted.
Parks
Amenities in City parks, including playgrounds and outdoor exercise equipment,
remain open. Consistent with guidance from Toronto Public Health, outdoor
playground equipment is not sanitized. Updated signage with public health
guidance is posted. Residents visiting a park must practise physical distancing
and avoid crowding.
More information on parks is available online: http://www.toronto.ca/home/
covid-19/covid-19-latest-city-of-toronto-news/affected-city-services/?accordion=
parks.
Toronto Island Park's public ferry and beaches
Ferry service operates daily at 50 per cent capacity with COVID-19 guidelines
and procedures in place to protect passengers and staff. Tickets are limited to
5,000 per day and tickets must be purchased online in advance
at https://www.toronto.ca/ferry. Passengers are required to wear masks or face
coverings and are encouraged to travel outside of peak times of 9:30 a.m.
to 12:30 p.m. from the ferry terminal to the island, and 5:30 to 9 p.m. for
the return trip.
Lifeguards supervise the four Toronto Island Park swimming beaches. There is
plenty of room on the Island beaches. If one beach is crowded, visitors are
encouraged to go to a different area. Services and amenities that are open
at Toronto Island Park include washrooms, splash pad, a first aid station,
William Meany Maze, some food and beverage outlets and disc golf. Other
Toronto Island Park public and commercial amenities, including Centreville
and boat rentals, remain closed under the current Province of Ontario emergency
orders. Water taxi service to Toronto Island Park is available.
City pools and splash pads
Torontonians can cool off at more than 300 aquatic amenities this summer as
the City’s 140 splash pads, 100 wading pools, 56 outdoor swimming pools
and 29 indoor pools are now open. In order to allow for physical distancing,
the capacity at outdoor and indoor pools is significantly reduced to 25 per cent.
Swimmers are limited to 45-minute sessions to allow for cleaning. A new online
reservation tool is available for indoor pool drop-in lane swim:
https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/recreation/sports-fitness-leadership-
programs/fitness-programs/.
Some pools are closed for repair. Pool status is available online
at: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/alerts/swim/index.html. Full details
are available at http://www.toronto.ca/swim.
ActiveTO road closures and Quiet Streets
Parts of major roads in the city will be closed this weekend for ActiveTO,
from Saturday, August 22 at 6 a.m. to Sunday, August 23 at 11 p.m.:
• Lake Shore Boulevard West (eastbound lanes only) from Windermere
Avenue to Stadium Road. As a result, the eastbound Gardiner Expressway off
ramp to Lake Shore Boulevard West (exit #146) will also be closed
• Lake Shore Boulevard East (eastbound lanes only) from Leslie Street to just
south of Woodbine Avenue (Kew Beach Avenue)
• Bayview Avenue from Front Street East to Rosedale Valley Road, and River
Street from Gerrard Street East to Bayview Avenue
Residents planning to use those roads should access them by bike or as
a pedestrian because nearby parking is limited and there is no onsite parking
available. Parking lots at Sunnyside Park, Budapest Park and Sir Casimir Gzowski
Park will be closed all weekend during ActiveTO closures. Overnight parking is not
permitted in these lots and any vehicles should be moved before midnight
on Friday.
More than 60 kilometres of Quiet Streets are available to neighbourhood residents
throughout the city this weekend. More information, including an online map of
all locations, can be found on the ActiveTO webpage
at http://www.toronto.ca/activeTO.
Construction affecting downtown intersection
There will be a partial intersection closure at Lake Shore Boulevard
and Parliament Street this weekend so crews can safely remove and replace
sections of the Gardiner Expressway above that intersection as part of work to
renew the expressway between Jarvis and Cherry Streets. From 12:01 a.m.
Saturday, August 22 to 5 a.m., Monday, August 24, there will be no right
or left turns onto Parliament Street from eastbound Lake Shore Boulevard
and no left turns onto Parliament Street from westbound Lake Shore Boulevard.
Parliament Street will be fully closed between Lake Shore Boulevard and Small
Street, except for local access for area residents.
CaféTO update
Curb-lane closures continue to be in place this weekend to accommodate cafés
and patios for CaféTO locations throughout the city. The CaféTO program
currently supports more than 700 restaurants with expanded dining space to
allow for physical distancing.
Restaurants and bars
In food and drink establishments, additional requirements to protect the health
and safety of customers remain in effect. These include ensuring that
all customers remain seated except when entering or exiting, using the washroom
or paying the bill. Customers can expect to be asked for basic personal
information as management of food and drink establishments must keep customer
logs that include names and contact information for each party in the event
contact tracing is required.
Inspections of food and drink establishments by Bylaw and Toronto Public Health
Officers will continue this weekend. Last weekend 21 complaint-based inspections
were carried out. Officers are encouraged by an increase in compliance across
restaurants and bars in the city.
Learn more about requirements for food and drink establishments:
https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-reopening-recovery-rebuild/
covid-19-reopening-guidelines-for-businesses-organizations/covid-19-guidance-
food-premises/.
Public washrooms
Park washrooms are open to the public. In addition, the City has opened
a number of facilities with showers, washrooms and drinking water for
all individuals in need of these services. Residents using public washrooms should
maintain a distance of two metres or six feet from others at all times while
waiting in line and wash hands or use hand sanitizer. More details, including
health guidelines for washrooms, are available on the City Services webpage:
http://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-latest-city-of-toronto-news/
affected-city-services/?accordion=washroom-and-sanitation-services.
St. Lawrence Market
The St. Lawrence Market continues to operate with enhanced precautions under
the advisement of Toronto Public Health. The South (main) Market is open
Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The indoor and outdoor areas of the Saturday Farmers’ Market will be open
from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. as usual. The Sunday antique market remains closed
until further notice.
A limited amount of indoor seating is available inside the South Market. Seating is
on the lower level and has been set up to ensure that customers can remain
physically distant while eating inside. Customers are reminded that eating indoors
is only permitted when seated. Customers should only dine with others in their
own social bubble. Additional outdoor seating is available on the South Market
patio. Paddington's Pump restaurant is open for dine-in service with physical
distancing.
The use of a face mask or face covering is required at the St. Lawrence Market
Complex. Entrance screenings are conducted for customers and all market
personnel. Customers should bring a face covering with them to wear
at the market. Even when wearing a mask or face covering, keeping physical
distance from others and washing your hands often are the best ways to help
stop the spread of COVID-19. More information is available
at http://www.stlawrencemarket.com.
COVID-19 updates
The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice and information
about City services, social supports and economic recovery measures.
Check https://www.toronto.ca/COVID19 for answers to common questions
before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.
For more information about requirements during Stage 3,
visit https://www.toronto.ca/ReopenTO.
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 22, 2020 |
| |
| City of Toronto Update on COVID-19 |
| August 21, 2020
City of Toronto update on COVID-19
The City of Toronto continues to respond to COVID-19. As the virus continues to
circulate in the community, residents are reminded to adhere to Toronto Public
Health’s advice to practise physical distancing, stay within their social circle of no
more than 10 people, wash hands often and wear a mask or face covering
where mandatory or when physical distancing cannot be maintained. Wearing
a mask or face covering is required in indoor public spaces in Toronto.
There are 15,729 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 41 today.
There are 50 people hospitalized. In total, 14,274 people have recovered from
COVID-19, an increase of 29 since yesterday. To date, there have
been 1,165 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto. Case status data can be found
on the City’s reporting platform: http://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/
covid-19-latest-city-of-toronto-news/covid-19-status-of-cases-in-toronto/.
Provincial orders under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19)
Act and the City bylaw on physical distancing remain in effect. Yesterday,
the City received 35 complaints related to parks use and physical distancing.
Officers have cautioned more than 3,100 people this month about physical
distancing, alcohol, bonfires and littering bylaws.
As more of the city’s businesses continue to reopen, residents can learn about
what to expect and what is required as Toronto moves into the new normal
and they begin to visit more establishments and take part in more activities
at https://www.toronto.ca/ReopenTO.
The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice and information
about City services, social supports and economic recovery measures.
Check http://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions
before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 22, 2020 |
| |
| Mayor John Tory Announces $1.7 Million in Property Tax Relief |
| August 20, 2020
Mayor John Tory announces $1.7 million in property tax relief for 45 live music
venues impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic
Today, City of Toronto Mayor John Tory announced that 45 live music venues
will receive a combined $1.7 million in property tax relief to support Toronto's live
music industry and address the unprecedented challenges that are threatening
live music venues across the city.
Mayor Tory made the announcement at The Cameron House, one of the 45 live
music venues that will receive this urgently needed target relief program.
The Mayor was joined by Deputy Mayor Michael Thompson (Ward 21 Scarborough
Centre), Chair of the Economic Development and Culture committee,
Night Economy Ambassador and member of the Toronto Music Advisory
Committee as well as Councillor Joe Cressy (Ward 10 Spadina-Fort York)
and Chair of the Toronto Music Advisory Committee.
Toronto’s live music venues contribute greatly to the city's cultural, social
and economic fabric. These venues require critical support in the face of ongoing
pressures that have been intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
At its July 28 and 29 meeting, City Council adopted a bylaw to add 45 eligible live
music venues to the Creative Co-Location Facilities Property Tax subclass,
including Burdock, The Cameron House, The Garrison, Horseshoe Tavern,
Lula Lounge, The Painted Lady, The Phoenix Concert Theatre and Relish
Bar & Grill.
The 45 live music venues will realize an estimated $1.7 million in combined tax
relief – $0.92 million for the municipal portion and $0.78 million for the education
portion of their combined property taxes. The tax reduction will be absorbed
within the City's overall commercial property tax revenue stream and will not
impact residential property tax rates.
On May 28, City Council expanded the Creative Co-Location Facilities Property
Tax Subclass to provide property tax relief for live music venues. As a result of
this decision, properties that meet specific criteria are eligible to receive property
tax relief of up to 50 per cent for the qualifying areas of the building.
Immediately following this expansion in May, the City began accepting applications from live music venue operators. The deadline for applications was June 19.
This relief measure will be implemented through the final supplementary property tax notices that will be issued in the fall.
City staff will analyze the impact of this cost-saving measure for live music venues and report to Council in 2021. This measure is intended to remain in place beyond this year to support the long-term viability of Toronto's live music sector.
The Creative Co-Location Facilities Property Tax Subclasses were established by
City Council and the Province of Ontario to support the affordability and sustainability of cultural and creative spaces in Toronto. This tax relief mechanism was first made available in 2018 for qualifying properties acting as creative hubs with creative tenants. In 2019, the criteria were expanded to include membership-based co-working facilities for creative workers and enterprises.
More information about the inclusion of live music venues, including eligibility criteria, is available at https://www.toronto.ca/business-economy/business-operation-growth/business-incentives/creative-co-location-facilities-property-tax-subclass-designation/.
Residents can learn about what to expect and what is required as Toronto
moves into the new normal and they begin to visit more establishments
and take part in more activities at http://www.toronto.ca/ReopenTO.
The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice and information
about City services, social supports and economic recovery measures.
Check http://www.toronto.ca/covid-19 for answers to common questions before
contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.
Quotes:
"The expansion of this program to include live music venues is one way in which
we can further protect the cultural vibrancy of our city. The music sector in
Toronto has been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. By providing
relief to music venue owners and operators we can ensure that they have
a greater chance of surviving and staying open."
- Mayor John Tory
"Live music venues are critical to the vibrant and diverse cultural scene in our city.
Some of my favourite Toronto memories are seeing bands and artists at these
local institutions, like The Horseshoe Tavern and The Garrison. I am delighted
that we have been able to come together to help 45 local and independent
venues across the city get through these difficult times, so that they can welcome
us back when it is safe to gather and enjoy live music together again."
- Councillor Joe Cressy (Ward 10 Spadina-Fort York), Chair of the Toronto Music
Advisory Committee
"The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been particularly hard on
Toronto's vibrant and diverse night economy, including the performing arts sector.
That is why we are doing everything we can to provide live music venue owners
and operators a greater chance at surviving, including the expansion of this
property tax relief program."
- Deputy Mayor Michael Thompson (Ward 21 Scarborough Centre), Chair of
the Economic Development and Culture committee, Night Economy Ambassador
and member of the Toronto Music Advisory Committee
“Music venues are an essential forum for the development and discovery of new
artists, and contribute to the vibrancy of our neighbourhoods. I’m so pleased that
the City took the recommendation of Toronto Music Advisory Committee
and acted quickly to improve the sustainability of this important part of Toronto’s
music ecosystem.”
- Mary An Blom, Co-Chair of the Toronto Music Advisory Committee and Senior
Director, Strategy & HR at Sony Music Entertainment Canada
"This targeted assistance program comes at a crucial time for venue operators
who were already struggling for survival before COVID-19 hit. The inclusion of
live
music venues in the Creative Co-location Facilities tax subclass signals that
the City of Toronto considers music venues as partners in creating culture
and recognizes that venues contribute to the social and economic development of
our neighbourhoods."
- Tracy Jenkins, Co-Artistic and Executive Director of Lula Music at Lula Lounge
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 20, 2020 |
| |
| City of Toronto Update on COVID-19 |
| August 19, 2020
City of Toronto update on COVID-19
The City of Toronto continues to respond to COVID-19. Today, Mayor Tory
provided an update on the City’s recovery and rebuild progress.
There are 15,668 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 24 since
yesterday. There are 49 people hospitalized. In total, 14,230 people have
recovered from COVID-19, an increase of 30 since yesterday. To date,
there have been 1,164 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto – with no deaths since
yesterday.
Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform:
http://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-latest-city-of-toronto-news/
covid-19-status-of-cases-in-toronto/.
The age distribution of reported COVID-19 cases continues to shift to younger
age groups. In the most recent two weeks, the average age of positive cases
was 39 years old, compared to 52 years overall for the entire outbreak. While
younger cases have not been made severely ill by COVID-19 and are less likely to
be hospitalized, they can still transmit the virus to others, especially to vulnerable
groups. In Toronto, many young people live with multi-generational families
and make up a large part of our service-based workforce.
As COVID-19 continues to circulate in the community, residents are urged to
continue adhering to Toronto Public Health’s advice to practise physical
distancing, stay within their social circle of no more than 10 people, wash hands
often and wear a mask or face covering where mandatory or when physical
distance cannot be maintained. Wearing a mask or face covering is required in
indoor public spaces in Toronto.
Provincial orders under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to
COVID-19)
Act and the City bylaw on physical distancing remain in effect. Yesterday,
the City received 28 complaints related to parks use and physical distancing.
Officers have cautioned more than 3,100 people this month about physical
distancing, alcohol, bonfires and littering bylaws. This month, enforcement
officers have issued 30 tickets related to liquor, open fires and social
distancing.
As more of the city’s businesses continue to reopen, residents can learn about
what to expect and what is required as Toronto moves into the new normal
and they begin to visit more establishments and take part in more activities
at https://www.toronto.ca/ReopenTO. Safe reopening guidelines for businesses
and organizations are also available at http://www.toronto.ca/Reopening.
The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice and information
about City services, social supports and economic recovery measures.
Check http://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before
contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 19, 2020 |
| |
| City of Toronto Announces Scarborough's New View Photography Contest |
| August 19, 2020
City of Toronto announces Scarborough's New View photography contest
Today, as part of #WorldPhotographyDay, Mayor John Tory announced the launch
of the Scarborough's New View photography contest in partnership
with Scarborough Arts. The City of Toronto and Scarborough Arts are calling upon
new and experienced photographers to take their best photos of people, places
and things in Scarborough.
Starting today until September 30, contestants are encouraged to post their
photos to Instagram or Facebook with hashtag #scarboroughphoto to enter.
Contestants can enter more than once for their chance to win. Scarborough's
New View photography contest has been made possible with the support of
Scarborough Arts, Ontario Arts Council and XVXY Photo. Contest details
are available at https://www.toronto.ca/photo-laureate/
and http://www.scarborougharts.com/anewview.
Anthony Gebrehiwot, a noted photographer, community leader and social
entrepreneur has been appointed as the creative lead for the photo contest.
Winners will be selected by a jury led by Toronto’s Photo Laureate Michéle
Pearson Clarke.
Toronto’s Photo Laureate is the first position of its kind in Canada. It honours
a photographer recognized for exceptional photography and whose work focuses
on subjects relevant to Torontonians. The Photo Laureate champions photography
and visual arts in the city, and uses her perspective to create a dialogue
on contemporary issues.
On November 26, 2019, Toronto City Council called for the City’s Photo Laureate
to commission a public photographic project or contest to highlight the best of
Scarborough and this contest is a result of that decision.
#WorldPhotographyDay is an annual, worldwide celebration of the art, craft,
science and history of photography.
Quotes:
“This new contest will showcase all that Scarborough has to offer and provide
residents an opportunity to participate in the visual representation of their own
communities. I encourage residents to take part in this contest and to show us
what they discover after exploring the beautiful community of Scarborough.”
- Mayor John Tory
“The New View photo contest is a great opportunity to present and celebrate
the visual stories of day-to-day life in our community. I look forward to seeing
what emerges as the eyes and lenses of our local photographers capture
the creativity, vibrancy, diversity and strength of the people and places in our
community and its many neighbourhoods.”
- Deputy Mayor Michael Thompson (Ward 21 Scarborough Centre), Chair of
the Economic Development and Culture committee
"What we think, believe and understand about our city is shaped by the creation
and circulation of images, because ultimately photographs tell stories. This contest
will give us all a chance to explore and learn about Scarborough from
the important stories these photographs will tell us."
- Photo Laureate, Michéle Pearson Clarke
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca |
| More.. | Posted: Aug 19, 2020 |
| |
| City of Toronto Further Expands Digital Main Street Program |
| August 19, 2020
City of Toronto further expands Digital Main Street program to help local
businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic
Today, Mayor John Tory announced another expansion of the Digital Main Street
program, as two new funding partners have joined the program and additional
initiatives have been launched that will focus on helping businesses in Toronto
and across Ontario embrace technology in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today both Intuit Quickbooks and Facebook Canada are also joining Digital Main
Street as funding partners. Their support will help Digital Main Street expand their
small business support programs that are dedicated to providing one-on-one
support to main street businesses looking to digitally transform their operations.
The program is also launching three new Digital Main Street Programs as
a result of funding from the Province of Ontario and FedDev Ontario.
The programs are aimed at ensuring main street business communities can adapt
and future proof their businesses during this unprecedented time. The programs
under the Digital Main Street Future Proof banner include: Transformation Teams,
the Digital Main Street Lab and a new Community Collaboration Program.
The Transformation Teams program will offer individual main street businesses
a customized business transformation plan and implementation support at no cost.
Businesses will work with an interdisciplinary team of marketing professionals,
web designers and creators to help update their business model, develop their
digital transformation plan, and implement the plan in up to six weeks.
Applications for businesses can be found at https://digitalmainstreet.ca/
transformation-teams/.
The Digital Main Street Lab is designed to bring technology companies
and communities together to pilot technologies that offer innovative support to
main street businesses. Collaborations will be provided with up to $25,000 in
funding to help implement pilot projects that offer technological improvements to
local business communities. Applications are being accepted until October 31, 2020
and can be submitted at https://digitalmainstreet.ca/digital-main-street-lab/.
As part of the Digital Main Street Lab, one identified collaboration includes
the City of Toronto and the Toronto Association of Business Improvement
Areas (TABIA), who will work with the Beach Village BIA and West Queen West
BIA to pilot a new community retail model with Toronto-based tech company
Hubba. This pilot project will include opportunities to help small businesses
improve their local retail sales by giving them access to new and unique products
to sell to their customers, while testing unique local commerce business models
and new technology.
The Community Collaboration Program will be focused on solving the big
challenges facing main street. The program aims to bring together Toronto’s
innovation community with the main street business community to identify
challenges and work together to create solutions that will help future proof main
street for years to come.
Digital Main Street was created by the City of Toronto and the Toronto Association
of Business Improvement Areas (TABIA) in 2016 to assist main street
businesses in growing their operations through technology with easy to use tools
and resources. The program is also supported by Google, Mastercard, Shopify
and Microsoft.
Since its launch, the Digital Main Street program has engaged more than 8,000
Toronto businesses and provided direct one-on-one support to 2,500+ businesses,
delivering more than 12,000 hours of support, training and education. Prior to
working with the Digital Main Street program, 30 per cent of businesses had
no online presence. These businesses have now moved online and an additional
66 per cent of businesses expanded their online presence.
The further expansion of the Digital Main Street program is a part of the Mayor's
Economic Support and Recovery Task Force's short-term economic support
and recovery plan for Toronto's businesses.
As part of the City of Toronto and Digital Main Street’s response to the COVID-19
crisis, additional programs were launched to support small businesses with their
adoption of technology, including: ShopHERE, where small businesses and artists
can receive a new online store built at no-cost to support their operations,
and Digital Service Squad where small businesses can get one-on-one virtual help
with setting up and using new technologies. Interested business owners can sign
up at https://digitalmainstreet.ca/shophere/ for the ShopHERE program or
at https://digitalmainstreet.ca/toronto/ to sign up for help from the Digital Service
Squad.
The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice and information
about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/
For answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health
COVID-19 Hotline or 311.
Quotes:
"Digital Main Street has proven to be a successful program that is helping
businesses across this city expand their offerings and to help them get online so
that they can broaden their customer base. The continued expansion of the Digital
Main Street program provides Toronto's small businesses with the opportunity to
not just survive but to thrive under the challenges brought on by the current
pandemic."
- Mayor John Tory
"The added support of Facebook and Intuit will significantly expand Digital Main
Street's ability to bring main street businesses the up-to-date insights
and technology tools they need to thrive in our radically altered economy."
- Deputy Mayor Michael Thompson, Scarborough Centre (Ward 21), Chair of
the Economic and Community Development Committee
"We're excited to see what the Beach Village BIA and West Queen West
partnership with Hubba through one of the first Digital Main Street Labs in
the province will bring to the local shops in these two communities."
- Councillor Brad Bradford, Beaches-East York (Ward 19)
"This is a great opportunity for our local businesses. The pilot project with West
Queen West BIA, Beach Village BIA and Hubba will help small shops improve
their local retail sales in an innovative way, testing unique local commerce
business models and new technologies.”
- Councillor Joe Cressy, Spadina-Fort York (Ward 10)
“Supporting digitization of local business is the foundation of Digital Main Street
and the Future Proof program with its pilot projects in support of main street
businesses is yet another step in that direction. Welcoming two new partners to
the Digital Main Street family to help deliver this expansion during these
unprecedented times is very exciting and rewarding.”
- John Kiru, Executive Director, Toronto Association of Business Improvement
Areas
"We are grateful to participate in this program that is in line with our passion for
helping small businesses. With this initiative, we are able to utilize Hubba's current
strength of using technology and data to support main street businesses while,
simultaneously, working with forward thinking BIAs to pilot some of the interesting
retail concepts we have been working on."
- Ben Zifkin, CEO, Hubba
The Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas (TABIA) is a non-profit
umbrella organization working with the 83 Business Improvement Areas within
the City of Toronto, who in turn represent more than 40,000 business
and property owners.
Hubba is the largest wholesale marketplace that connects emerging CPG brands
and independent retailers. Hubba helps today's buyers find, purchase,
and sell-through the right unique products for their stores. Based on detailed
profiles and preferences, and using a mix of AI and personal curation, Hubba
recommends a personalized product catalog customized for each buyer.
By negotiating terms upfront, Hubba makes the buying process easier
and wholesale orders can be completed online with the click of a few buttons.
Headquartered in Toronto, Hubba services thousands of brands and retailers
across North America.
Media contact: Media Relations,
media@toronto.ca
|
| More.. | Posted: Aug 19, 2020 |
| |
| Bike Share Toronto and CAA South Central Ontario Bring Back Free Ride |
| August 19, 2020
Bike Share Toronto and CAA South Central Ontario bring back Free Ride
Wednesdays in September
Today, Mayor John Tory was joined by Councillor James Pasternak, Chair of
the Infrastructure and Environment Committee, Robin Oliphant, Toronto Parking
Authority (TPA) Acting President and Rhonda English, Chief Marketing Officer,
CAA South Central Ontario to announce the return of Free Ride Wednesdays in
September.
Thanks to the new Bike Share Toronto - CAA South Central Ontario partnership,
Bike Share Toronto riders will ride for free every Wednesday in the month of
September. Riders can take out a bike for up to 30 minutes, return the bike to
any station, and take out another bike for an additional free 30-minute ride.
Today Bike Share also launched the pedal assist electric-bike (e-bike) pilot
program, announced earlier this summer as a new feature of Bike Share Toronto’s
2020 expansion. The e-bikes will be available in the system starting today,
and the 10 e-bike charging stations for the pilot will be installed over the next
several weeks. E-bike charging stations will be able to charge 20-25 bikes
at each station.
The e-bikes will allow users to travel a maximum of 25 kilometers and can travel
up to 70 kilometers without requiring a charge. E-bike charging stations are fully
compatible with the rest of the bike share system, allowing both manual bikes
and e-bikes to be docked in any station. E-bikes will be picked up by operators
throughout the date to ensure that they are being charged for the next day.
Once the e-bikes are charged, operators will leave them at one of the 10 e-bike
charging stations across the city.
In an effort to prioritize health and safety, Bike Share Toronto has ramped up
its cleaning program during the COVID-19 crisis. As bikes are regularly in use
and exposed to the environment, Bike Share continues to strongly recommend
that riders take the steps outlined in the City of Toronto’s COVID-19 Health
Advisory when using the system. The best way to prevent infection is to follow
the recommended personal hygiene measures by cleaning your bike before use.
Take advantage of Bike Share Toronto’s Free Ride Wednesdays in September!
• Download the PBSC/CycleFinder app or visit the Bike Share Toronto website
to find a station near you.
• Go to any of the 625 bike share stations between 12:01 a.m. and 11:59 p.m.
on one of the five Wednesdays in September.
• Select “Buy a pass” on the kiosk touch screen and select “$0 One-Day”,
then insert your credit card and follow the on-screen instructions. You can also
obtain your pass on Transit or PBSC/CycleFinder by selecting “Purchase Access
Pass” on the apps. There is a refundable $20 deposit per bike.
• After completing the transaction, type in the code you received into the keypad
on the left side of the docking point of the bike of your choice.
• Go out and explore Toronto for up to 30 minutes. Fees will apply if ride is over
ed 30 minutes.
• Return your bike to any station.
• Take out another bike for a free 30-minute ride as many times as you like.
Learn more about Free Ride Wednesdays: https://bikesharetoronto.com/.
Quick Facts:
Bike Share Toronto
• Bike Share Toronto now in 20 Wards covering 200 square kilometres of the city.
• Riders can buy a 24-hour day pass for $7, and have it all day without overage
charges, (provided it is docked every 30 minutes), or purchase the single
fare for 3.25 plus tax.
• Short term passes can be purchased on a smartphone using PBSC/CycleFinder,
the official app of Bike Share Toronto. Purchase annual passes for $99
($8.25/month) at https://bikesharetoronto.com/.
• The highest ridership day of all time was August 8, 2020, with 23,436 rides.
• Bike Share Toronto system hit a new record on August 8 and 9, 2020,
with the highest number of rides in a single weekend. There were
over 42,500 trips taken on those days.
• In the last 12 months, year over year ridership has increased by 20 per cent,
from 2,186,916 rides to 2,633,666 rides. (August 11, 2018 to August 10, 2019,
compared to August 11, 2019 to August 10, 2020).
• Year over year, for the seven months ending July 31, Bike Share Toronto
membership has increased to 186,897 up 76 per cent from 105,926.
Pedal Assist e-bikes
• There is no additional cost to use the pedal assist electric bicycles (e-bikes).
• E-FIT bikes can be recharged in the field in designated electric bike charging
stations or in the operations warehouse.
• To ensure e-bikes are powered from low-polluting sources, e-bikes will be
rebalanced for recharging purposes during official off-peak times,
between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m.
• Over the last 12 months, E-bikes have been introduced in other North American
cities including Montreal, Calgary and Detroit.
CAA Members Exclusives
• CAA members receive four free rides when they purchase 10 rides.
• CAA On the Move members (Membership for those who don’t need roadside
assistance) receive exclusive access to offers such as 25 per cent off an annual
Bike Share Toronto membership plus receive five free rides for friends and family.
Quotes:
“Free Ride Wednesday is a great way for residents to explore the city
and to become familiar with the Bike Share system. Cycling has increasingly
become a mode of transportation for people in this city to use and to get
around. Our city is committed to investing in our cycling infrastructure by creating
new bike lanes and investing in the Bike Share expansion to ensure that residents
have opportunities to cycle across the city. I encourage residents to hop on
a bike and take advantage of this year’s Free Ride Wednesdays during
the month of September.”
- Mayor John Tory
“We are proud to sponsor Free Ride Wednesdays for the third year in a row.
CAA has a strong history of encouraging cycling and advocating for cycling
safety in communities. This initiative allows us to give back to our Members
and communities in a meaningful way that aligns with CAA's longstanding
history of supporting cycling. Bike Share Toronto is not only a great resource,
they are also a great partner.”
- Rhonda English, Chief Marketing Officer, CAA South Central Ontario
“We are grateful to CAA SCO for their continued support of Bike Sharing
and their new commitment to a multi-year partnership with Bike Share Toronto.
CAA has made important contributions to cycling safety in Ontario.
Their partnership with us is another example of that commitment.”
- Robin Oliphant, Toronto Parking Authority Acting President
Media contacts:
Lawvin Hadisi
647-460-7507
Lawvin.Hadisi@toronto.ca
Office of the Mayor, City of Toronto
Rita Mezzanotte
416-271-0667
ritamezz@me.com
Toronto Parking Authority
Nadia Matos
416-523-0663
nm12@caasco.ca
CAA South Central Ontario
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| More.. | Posted: Aug 19, 2020 |
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