Ecological Infrastructures - Reconnecting The Fragments of Garrison Creek through Four Frameworks

Abstract

Garrison Creek is one of many ravines along Toronto’ s waterfront which have undergone numerous transformations since the establishment of Toronto as a city. Accelerated urbanization of the downtown core and waste dumping in these creeks persuaded city officials towards hygienic interventions. Over the last century, sewage infrastructure overcame natural streams, ravine bridges were buried, and building parcels overlaid sloping topography. Reminders of the creek permeate the city through winding side streets, buried bridges and sunken parks.

Extreme urban flooding during the 8th of July, 2013 storm resurfaced questions to whether burying natural watersheds have been more beneficial or detrimental to the health of Lake Ontario. This thesis responds to the effects of climate change, rapid urban development and an aging sewage system by leveraging the buried Garrison Creek landscape through community design, homeowner initiatives and vacant building adaptations.

Through explorations of public park designs, historical infrastructures and storm water management alternatives, awareness of the natural and cultural potential of the former ravine will be addressed. The proposal focuses on reconnecting the creek through four frameworks; a heritage building retrofit, public park green infrastructure, arterial lane way design and rooftop catchment systems. The establishment of these four elements promotes a second life that once flowed through the former creek.