Planning for Affordable Rental Housing Through Policy Context: A Case Study of Mimico-by-the-Lake

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to investigate the contemporary housing issues and challenges related to the provision of affordable rental housing by exploring Mimico-by- the-Lake, Toronto as a case study. The current housing development trends in the City of Toronto suggests a tremendous growth in the condominium industry where the growth of development in rental housing has remained stagnant. Canada’s reliance on the market mechanism in the provision of housing has contributed to this trend; contemporary urban policies continue to advocate the market mechanism to address housing shortages. Under its revitalization initiative, there is a concern that redevelopment of Mimico-by-the-Lake will experience similar influence of current development trends and urban policies. Existing affordable rental housing stock is vital for the community where affordability is important for the low-income households. Gentrification is a real threat to the community in the face of growing polarization of the City, particularly for the low-income households. Accordingly, the City must take a more proactive policy approach and role in the provision of affordable housing to minimize the impact of gentrification as a result of a redevelopment process.