Revitalizing Derelict Unbuilt-Upon Space:

A Case Study Review

Anthony Sotomayor
209618141
4700 Urban Studies Seminar
Jon Caulfield
Word Count: 7500

First life, then spaces, then buildings the other way around never works. Jan Gehl

Abstract: The case study of Underpass Park unfolds the concept and the benefit of
revitalizing or repurposing derelict unbuilt-upon urban space, which only requires
creativity and imagination to rededicate the space into something more benign.
The research project explores other successful case-studies around the world that
portrays this similar concept and benefit, such as the High Line, Low Line, Sugar
Beach, I-5 Colonnade Mountain Bike Park, Diamond Hill and Burnside Skatepark. The
story of Underpass Park also demonstrates theories and practice of successful
spaces and also a departure from traditional park design. The case-study serves as
a lesson towards Torontos lost spaces and opportunity to re-imagine the space
beneath the Gardiner Expressway.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents

ii

Figures and Pictures..

iii

Introduction .

West Don Lands and Underpass Park...........

35

Research Aim and Methodology..

78

Landscape Urbanism: What is Repurposing? ..

9 10

Repurposing Projects associated with Landscape Urbanism

High Line, New York ..

11

Low Line Delancey Underground, New York

11 12

Sugar Beach, Toronto.

12 13

Overpass Repurposing Projects

I-5 Colonnade Mountain Bike Park, Seattle

17

Diamond Hill, Hong Kong

17

What Makes Urban Spaces Successful? .

20 22

Case Study: Underpass Park

23 25

Future Opportunities the Gardiner Expressway Presents ..

26 27

Conclusion.

28 29

Works Cited..

30 33

Appendices
Appendix A Informed Consent Form.

34

Appendix B Interview Information/Questions

35

Appendix C Figures

36 47

ii

Figures and Pictures

Figure 1.0 Cheonggyecheon Restoration, Seoul, Korea

Figure 1.1 Ataratiri Social Mix..

Figure 1.2 Ataratiri and the West Don Land Vision..............

Figure 1.3 High Line, New York

14

Figure 1.4 Low Line Delancey Underground, New York

15

Figure 1.5 Sugar Beach, Toronto.

16

Figure 2.0 I-5 Colonnade Mountain Bike Park

18

Figure 2.1 Kwun Tong overpass, Hong Kong

19

Figure 2.2 Traditional and Modern City Form.

22

Figure 2.3 Underpass Park Prior Redevelopment.

36

Figure 2.4 Mix Uses in Underpass Park.

37

Figure 2.5 Winter Spaces.

38

Figure 3.0 Burnside Skatepark, Portland Oregon..

39

Figure 3.1 Graffiti Columns..

40

Figure 3.2 The Mirage

41

Figure 3.3 Move Box.

41

Figure 3.4 Land Use..

42

Figure 3.5 Underpass Park Lighting

43

Figure 4.0 Gardiner Expressway Future Opportunity

44

Figure 4.1: Folly for a Flyover..

26

Figure 4.2 East River Esplanade, New York..

45

Figure 4.3 Fort York Visitor Centre.................................

46

Figure 4.4 Shanghai Street Greening.

47

iii

Introduction
In the late 1960s the Richmond and Adelaide Street ramps were constructed, which
divided and demolished 170 houses that were part of a working-class neighbourhood in the
West Don Lands.1 The scheme of building elevated expressways in Toronto can be traced
to the 1947 four-lane Waterfront Highway, presently known as the Gardiner Expressway,
which was completely built in 1966.2 This expressway divided and destroyed
neighbourhoods; it created the barrier effect to the citys waterfront.3 The space beneath
the expressway is a wasteland of open dirt, dark, ugly and unused space. Many cities
around the globe have taken different approaches to deal with this problem; remove,
replace, ameliorate or do nothing about it.
In the present postindustrial society, cities like Boston have replaced its extensive
elevated highway by burying it underground, known as the Boston Big Dig. Other cities like
Seattle, has proposed to demolish the Alaskan Way Viaduct - an elevated expressway
and replace it with a deep bore tunnel. The city of Seoul in South Korea took another
approach and demolished a 6-kilometre elevated expressway that extends from the central
business district to the commercial district.4 Demolishing the structure allowed the creation
of a linear park (refer to Figure 1.0). However, the Richmond and Adelaide overpass located
in Toronto, portrays a different case study regarding the future of these unused spaces. The
research project explores this alternative planning approach to re-imaging unused spaces
and will also portray examples of other cities that have taken a similar approach to
successfully repurpose5 or ameliorate these derelict spaces.

McClelland, Michael, and Graeme Stewart. Excerpt Gardiner Expressway from Concrete Toronto:
a guidebook to concrete architecture from the fifties to the seventies. Toronto: Coach House Books,
2007. 182.
2
Ibid.
3
Ibid.
4
Waterfront Toronto (2009), Future of the Gardiner Expressway: Case Study Review. Retrieved on
14 March 2012 from:
http://www.nanosresearch.com/WaterfrontTO/library/Case%20Study%20Overview.pdf
5
Repurpose has a similar meaning to adaptive reuse, in which a structure is being purposed for
something that it was not intended for. Some of the examples that I explore of this phenomena are
the High Line, Low Line, Sugar Beach, I-5 Colonnade Mountain Bike Park, Diamond Hill and Burnside
Skatepark.

Cheonggyecheon Restoration, Seoul, Korea

Source: Waterfront Toronto (2009), Future of the Gardiner Expressway: Case Study Review.
Retrieved on 14 March 2012 from:
http://www.nanosresearch.com/WaterfrontTO/library/Case%20Study%20Overview.pdf
Figure 1.0 (The top and bottom right) is a photograph of the linear park that was created by
demolishing the 6-kilometre elevated expressway (bottom left).

West Don Lands and Underpass Park

Underpass Park is situated in the West Don Lands, and has become an emerging
example of revitalizing derelict unbuilt-upon urban space. The Province of Ontario and the
City of Toronto established Waterfront Toronto to oversee and lead the renewal of Torontos
waterfront including the West Don Lands. Presently, the West Don Lands will become a
temporary use as the athletes village during the 2015 Pan American Games6 to
accommodate 8,500 athletes and team officials, then after the games it will be converted
into a lively mix use neighbourhood.7 Previous efforts to redevelop the land began in the
1980s, where the city of Toronto imagined a new neighbourhood like St. Lawrence named
Ataratiri. The city proposed creating a mix of subsidized and market priced housing
community of 14,000 to solve Toronto's pressing subsidized housing crisis.8 However, this
plan was postponed due to the high cost of environmental cleanup after more than a halfcentury of heavy pollution.9 The risk of flooding from the Don River also required a flood
barrier to be in place. The ruthless hostility of the Harris provincial government of the 1990s
cut any form of public-sector housing investment. By 1992, the city and province had
already invested roughly $350 million, and new the estimates would put the final cost at
more than a billion.10 The real estate market had also collapsed, making any private
investment unlikely.11 The new provincial government of Bob Rae thus decided to cancel the
project in 1992.12
During this time period from 1986 to 1996, a postindustrial shift was taking place.13
The structure of the postindustrial economy is divided into the knowledge based economy
and the McDonalds economy.14 Work in prestigious realms like corporate head office

An Olympic-like event for athletes from North and South America, competing in a multi-sport event
scheduled in July 2015 hosted in Toronto Ontario.
7
Hume, Christopher (2010). "West Don Lands: Toronto's first 21st-century community." TheStar. 16
Mar. 2010. Retrieved on 7 Nov. 2011 from: http://www.thestar.com/yourcitymycity/article/780808-west-donlans-toronto-sfirst-21st-century-community
8
Ataratiri O.P (1991) Ataratiri Official Plan Proposals Part II. City of Toronto Planning and
Development Department.
9
Ibid.
10
Henderson, Paul (November, 2006). West Don Lands preparing for renewal. Business Edge
News Magazine, vol. 2, No.10. Retrieved on 28 Dec 2011 from:
http://www.businessedge.ca/archives/article.cfm/west-don-lands-preparing-for-renewal-12573
11
Ibid.
12
Ibid.
13
Caulfield, Jon (2005). Toronto: The Form of the City from Urban Canada: Sociological
Perspectives, Harry H. Hiller, ed(s)., Oxford University Press, 2.
14
Caulfield, Jon (2005). 5.

management, in contrast to low wage often part-time non-unionized jobs in restaurants.15

One of the effects of this shift was the Ontario and federal governments no longer seemed
much interested in investing in affordable housing. There was a growing cadre of the new
postindustrial elite that are inclined towards the lifestyle of districts in and near downtown.16
The West Don Lands have become one of the many places in Toronto to cater to this need.
In addition, the West Don Lands will provide a 25/75 towards affordable housing, which 25%
is composed of affordable rentals and low-end market; the rest is comprised of private
market.17 In contrast, Ataratiri provided a 60/40 split, where 60% would comprise of
cityhome, co-operatives, and other non-profit housing; the 40% would be oriented to private
market (refer to Figure 1.1)18. Some similarities to note are the scale, street grid, and density
between the West Don Lands and the Ataratiri plan (refer to Figure 1.2). Although, these two
plans are situated in a different political and economic milieu, it is evident that these two
plans placed an emphasis on different principles and goals. For instance, the Ataratiri plan
emphasized in creating a socially mixed neighbourhood that would resemble St. Lawrence:
The Ataratiri neighbourhood is being planned as an inclusive community both in
social and economic terms. The new neighbourhood will promote the integration of
households with varying income level and cultural backgrounds.19
In contrast, the West Don Lands have placed a greater emphasis on the environment,
sustainability and creating social public spaces within the community. The urban public
spaces that the West Don Lands focus on are the woonerfs20, the Don River Park and the
Underpass Park.
This will be one of Torontos next great neighbourhoods, a community that is people
focused, family friendly, environmentally sustainable and beautifully designed for
living.21
This research essay will explore Underpass Park as one of the urban public spaces that the
West Don Lands highlight. Waterfront Toronto unveiled Underpass Park on March 2010,

15

Ibid.
Ibid.
17
West Don Lands Precinct Plan (May, 2005). Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Corporation.
Toronto, Ontario: Retrieved on October 2009, 34.
http://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/explore_projects2/west_don_lands
18
Burns, D. (1990). Ataratiri Business Plan. City of Toronto Housing Department.
19
Ataratiri O.P (1991) 30.
20
Woonerf is a Dutch concept, where the streets are specially designed so that pedestrians and cars
are equals. That means narrow roads with no curbs or sidewalks. The main arteries will resemble any
other conventional street in the city, but woonerfs have never been seen in Toronto.
21
West Don Lands Precinct Plan (May, 2005).
16

which is situated underneath the elevated Richmond, Adelaide and Eastern Ave overpass.22
It was a response to the challenge of connecting the Toronto Community Housing (TCHC)
project and the River City condo development to the rest of the West Don Lands. Underpass
Park aims to address both the problems of an unused space and the importance of the site.
The construction on the 2.5 acre site began in May 2010 and will cost $5.3 million.23 The
project is divided into two phases; the first phase was completed by January 2012 and plans
to open by July 2012. The second phase will be built in the near future (for further details
about this site go to page 23).24 Underpass Park is a first in Toronto and it allows planners to
think of an alternative method to transforming derelict and unused space beneath a series of
overpasses.

Ataratiri Social Mix

Source: Burns, D. (1990). Ataratiri Business Plan. City
of Toronto Housing Department.
Figure 1.1 The pie chart represents the housing
composition of the Ataratiri Plan. It is divided into (60%)
cityhome, co-operatives, nonprofit and (40%) private
market.

22

Bowman Marcus (March 2010). Waterfront Toronto unveils Underpass Park. Spacing Toronto.
Retrieved on Nov 23 2011 from: http://spacingtoronto.ca/2010/03/15/waterfrontoronto-unveils-plansfor-underpasspark/
23
Bowman Marcus (March 2010).
24
Ibid.

Ataritiri and the West Don Lands Vision

Source (top and bottom left picture): Ataratiri O.P (1991) Ataratiri Official Plan Proposals Part II. City
of Toronto Planning and Development Department.
Source (bottom right picture): West Don Lands Precinct Plan (May, 2005). Toronto Waterfront
Revitalization Corporation. Toronto, Ontario: Retrieved on October 2009, 1 -58.
http://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/explore_projects2/west_don_lands
Figure 1.2 (The top and bottom left) picture represent the scale, density and size of the Ataratiri plan,
which is very similar to the West Don Lands future vision of the site (bottom right).

Research Aim and Methodology

The research project uses the case study of Underpass Park to explore the concept
and benefits of revitalizing unbuilt upon space into a socially inclusive space. It also draws
upon other successful repurposed projects around the world to demonstrate its positive
affect on society. The research methodology and analysis that are set out achieves a
qualitative result. The information is derived from simple observation of the site,
photography and secondary data through research articles and web-based materials. In
addition, three semi-structured interviews were conducted with three professionals regarding
their thoughts about repurposing and what they think is a successful public space.
The research essay is divided into three different sections, the first section,
describes the discourse of repurposing that is embedded in the planning practice of
landscape urbanism. Three repurposing case-studies are explored High Line, Low Line
and Sugar Beach that have used landscape urbanism principles to rededicate the space
for a better use. The three case studies display ideas and concepts that could be utilized in
other unused areas in Toronto like the Gardiner Expressway or the space below modern
high-rise apartment neighbourhoods like St. James Town. In addition, this section also
explores two cities that have revitalized the unused space beneath their expressway to
create a public amenity and attraction. The two case studies of the I-5 Colonnade Mountain
Bike Park, Seattle, and Diamond Hill, Hong Kong serve as an example of creativity and
imagination. It also serves as a future lesson to the space beneath the Gardiner
Expressway.
The second section examines theories of creating a successful space by analyzing
a range of secondary sources, and a short film. These include Life between Buildings, Death
and Life of the American City, Finding Lost Space and The Social Life of Small Urban
Spaces. Jan Gehl, Jane Jacobs, Roger Trancik and William H. Whyte put forward very
similar, but different theories in regards to the elements of a successful urban space. Trancik
coins the phrase lost spaces, which comprises a variety of unused spaces within the city
that are often lost. The phrase includes spaces beneath an overpass or expressway and
provides several different solutions for planners and designers in re-thinking this lost space.
The urban theories provide a framework in which is used to critique the space that is being
rededicated Underpass Park and analyzes the potential success these repurposed
spaces can have on the urban environment.
Lastly, I visited both Underpass Park and the Gardiner Expressway on March 2012
and took several photographs to show the components of Underpass Park and the unused

space of the Gardiner Expressway that could potentially be repurposed. The case study of
Underpass Park could be portrayed as an example or the beginning phenomena of reimagining Torontos streetscape and unused spaces. I also observed how the Gardiner
Expressway may benefit from repurposing its space below, following a similar approach as
Underpass Park. I conducted three semi-structured interviews that ranged from twenty to
forty minutes. The questions I asked the interviewees dealt with the common theme of
repurposing, landscape urbanism, theories regarding successful public space and future
opportunities (refer to Appendix B). All three interviewees signed or were aware of the
informed consent form.
The first interview was with Amy Lavender Harris, a York University professor that
teaches a course on urban public space. Her thoughts regarding Underpass Park was
limited because she did not know what the project was about. However, once she searched
the project she suggested readings and books that helped me conceptualize the topic of
rededicating unused space. The second interview with Andrew Pruss, a principal architect at
E.R.A. Architects Inc, provided extensive knowledge regarding the redevelopment of the
West Don Lands and his involvement on the adaptive reuse of the Distillery District. His
thoughts redefined the focus of this research essay by providing a clear definition to
repurposing space. He also put me in touch with one of the developers right across from
Underpass Park Urban Capital. The last interview with Jeff Geldart, a development
manager at Urban Capital provided the challenges development firms face when
constructing near an expressway. He also shared projects that have used landscape
urbanism principle and how other cities have dealt with overpasses. These three interviews
from various professional backgrounds have provided me with informative qualitative data
and have helped me focus and develop my research essay. The next component of the
essay explores the construction of repurposing that is embedded in the planning practice of
landscape urbanism.

Landscape Urbanism: What is Repurposing?

Landscape urbanism emerged during the mid-1990, it manifests a theory of
urbanism arguing that landscape, rather than architecture, is more capable of organizing the
city and enhancing the urban experience.25 According to Charles Waldheim, associate dean
and director of the landscape architecture program at the University of Toronto, explains that
landscape urbanism proposes a relationship between nature and city.26 The idea of
repurposing unused spaces has been credited with the emerging planning practice of
landscape urbanism. This is evident with the triumph of the High Line located in New York
that has optimized landscape urbanism theory.
In the three case-studies of the High Line, Low Line and Sugar Beach (that is
explored below) demonstrates the planning theory of landscape urbanism and the impact
repurposing spaces can have on the society. The concept of repurposing is very similar to
the phrase adaptive reuse, however, as Andrew Pruss indicated the two are distinct urban
theories. Repurposing suggests adding a secondary purpose to a structure that was
originally intended for a single-purpose.27 For instance, the purpose of the Gardiner
Expressway is to move cars from one point to another. A secondary purpose of the Gardiner
could be adding shops or playgrounds beneath the expressway for people to enjoy.
Although it is not implicitly stated in the Landscape Urbanism Reader, it seems to be a
theme that is embedded in the planning practice of landscape urbanism due to the
construction of this term.
All of landscape urbanisms triumphs so far have been in such marginal and unbuilt
locations A common ground is useless without people to activate it and surround it,
to make it their commons.28
In the quote mentioned above refers to successful landscape urbanism projects that have
been built on derelict and unused space, and transformed into something better for people
to use. Charles Jencks and other proponents of postmodern architectural culture indicate
modernism inability to produce a meaningful or livable public realm. In response to this
failure and inability to connect to different audiences, landscape urbanism puts forward a

25

Ibid.
Burga, Hector Fernando (2008). 24.
27
Pruss, Andrew (January, 2012). Interview. E.R.A. Architects Inc. Toronto, Ontario.
28
Waldheim, Charles (2006). The Landscape Urbanism Reader. New York: Princeton Architectural
Press, 62 63.
26

compelling theory in order to reimagine dead spaces. Le Corbusier in his Plan Voisin29 calls
these spaces like the High Line or Low Line as Green Complex. It comes in a form of
parks and green open spaces, which suggests that it will bring civility, health, social equity,
and economic development to the city.30
A second theme that is predominant in the Landscape Urbanism Reader is the
phenomenon of the horizontal surface, it suggest that horizontal surfaces is capable of
organizing the city and enhancing the urban experience.31 It recommends the ability to
produce urban effects traditionally achieved through the construction of buildings simply
through the organization of horizontal surfaces. It perceives landscape as a medium that is
uniquely capable of responding to change in the urban morphology.32 This idea emerged in
Paris in the competition of the Park de la Villette, which signaled the role that landscape
would play as a medium through constructing a horizontal field that might accommodate all
sorts of urban activities.33 A third theme of landscape urbanism is the imaginary as the
primary motivation.34 It critiques other rational planning practices that lack imagination when
developing a landscape project. It is again a response to the failure of the twentieth-century
planning that can be attributed to the impoverishment of the imagination with regard to the
design and development practices of the public realm. Public space in the city is often
perceived as a generic activity called recreation, however, landscape urbanism sees public
spaces as places for geographic and social imagination to extend new relationships. In
addition, it looks for other possibilities a public space may be used for. The next component
of this research study will be exploring repurposing projects, where I portray famous casestudies that use landscape urbanism principles such as the High Line, Low Line and Sugar
Beach.

29

Plan Voisin is a plan Corbusier wanted to do in downtown Paris, which would destroy the inner part
and put in giant cruciform towers.
30
Waldheim, Charles (2006). 35.
31
Waldheim, Charles (2006). 25.
32
Waldheim, Charles (2006). 39.
33
Waldheim, Charles (2006). 41.
34
Waldheim, Charles (2006). 32.

10

Repurposing Projects associated with Landscape Urbanism:

High Line, New York
The New York High Line has been hailed as the first major landscape urbanism
triumph in the United States. Previously, the High Line was designed to connect factories
and warehouses, allowing trains to roll right inside the building.35 By the mid-1980s, a group
of property owners with land under the line, lobbied for the demolition of the entire
structure.36 As the area became gentrified in the 1990s there was a push to demolish this
structure.37 However in 1999, a non-profit organization Friends of the High Line wanted to
reuse and reimagine this space as an open public space that would provide a different
urban experience. The park was designed by New York-based landscape architecture firm
Field Operations.38 The implication of this space has turned into one of the most innovative
and inviting public spaces in New York City and perhaps the entire country (refer to Figure
1.3). In terms of landscape urbanism these spaces are said to be hybrid spaces through
the practice of landscape and urbanism;39 meaning the density that surrounds the project
allows them to prosper. In addition, it is important to note how landscape urbanism creates
projects that are environmentally sustainable that is also able to enhance the social and
economic development of a city. The next landscape urbanism project I turn to is the Low
Line, which is highly influenced by the success of the High Line.

Low Line Delancey Underground, New York

The Low Line is another landscape urbanism project which aims to convert an
abandoned unused trolley terminal beneath Delancey Street into an extraordinary
subterranean public park. James Ramsey and Dan Baraschs from Raad Studio40 have
suggested a radical proposal that could bring the world's first underground park in Lower
East Side, New York (refer to Figure 1.4).41 Inspired by the impact of the High Line, local
businesses, residents, community leaders, and political stakeholders alike have voiced

35

David, Joshua and Robert Hammond (2011). High Line: The Inside Story of New York Citys Park
in the Sky. Straus and Giroux: 8.
36
Ibid.
37
David, Joshua and Robert Hammond (2011). 11.
38
David, Joshua and Robert Hammond (2011). 12.
39
Waldheim, Charles (2006). The Landscape Urbanism Reader. New York: Princeton Architectural
Press, 23.
40
Raad Studio is located in New York; they specialize in creating objects and spaces that emphasize
clean, rich, and imaginative designs.
41
Foderaro W. Lisa (November, 2011). Inspired by High Line, Park is envisioned with Sights Set Low.
rd
New York Times, Retrieve on 3 March 2012 from:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/22/nyregion/high-line-inspires-plans-for-park-under-delanceystreet.html?pagewanted=all

11

considerable enthusiasm for the idea.42 The impact of this space is more than economic
revitalization opportunity but it would also represent the potential of remnant urban
infrastructure, and the need for cities to re-invent the meaning of space above and below
ground.43 The Low Line is essentially part of the next phase in urban design, in which
human scale and increasing resource scarcity force us to imagine smarter, more creative
use of public spaces. The Delancey Underground project imagines a year-round
programming series, which invites the community into the space in new ways. From art
exhibitions, farmers markets, educational series, to special events and promotions.44 It will
generate a community, and it will inspire in the way beautiful environments can inspire.

Sugar Beach, Toronto

Prior to being called Sugar Beach, it was a space was formerly used as a parking lot
in an industrial area of Toronto. The name derived from its proximity to Redpath Sugar
Refinery.45 In 2009, Waterfront Toronto decided to redevelop this space by transforming a
surface parking lot into Torontos second urban beach at the waters edge.46 It was designed
by Claude Cormier Architectes Paysagistes and features three distinct components: an
urban beach; a plaza space; and a tree-lined promenade running diagonally through the
park.47 Toronto's new urban beach, as mentioned in an article by Christopher Hume, is the
perfect mix of industrial and pleasure where one can view the intricacies of a factory that
uses ocean liners to unload product.48
The three case studies outline the major themes in the Landscape Urbanism Reader.
Firstly, it shows how landscape urbanism principles can transform an unused space into
something more useful. It also portrays the benefits a community can gain from repurposing
an unused space, for instance, it attracts people to a previous undesirable space, it brings in
economic development within the area, and it creates a desirable and mixed-use public
space. Secondly, it displays the impact that horizontal surface can have on the urban form.
42

Ibid.
th
Ramsey, James and Dan Barasch (2011) Delancey Underground, Retrieved on 25 March 2012
from: http://delanceyunderground.org/the-project
44
Ibid.
45
st
Mcisaac, Nicole (2010). Sugar Beach an Urban Oasis. Spacing Toronto, Retrieved on 1 March
2012 from: http://spacingtoronto.ca/2010/08/09/sugar-beach-an-urban-oasis/
46
Ibid.
47
th
Waterfront Toronto. Canadas Sugar Beach, Retrieved on 4 March 2012 from:
http://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/explore_projects2/east_bayfront/canadas_sugar_beach
48
Hume, Christopher (May, 2010). Welcome to Sugar Beach, Torontos latest sweet spot. Toronto
st
Star, Online Video Clip Retrieved on 1 March 2012 from:
http://www.thestar.com/yourcitymycity/article/835601--welcome-to-sugar-beach-toronto-s-latestsweet-spot
43

12

It becomes a place for people to interact or as Oldenburg calls it third places for people to
gather.49 Oldenburg identifies third places, or great good places, as the public places on
neutral ground where people can gather and interact.50 In contrast to first places (home) and
second places (work), third places allow people to put aside their concerns and simply enjoy
the company and conversation around them.51 Lastly, these three case studies portray the
re-imagination of spaces that sees spaces as more than a mere recreation, but rather a
place to extend social imagination and new relationships. Furthermore, the planning practice
of landscape urbanism exerts re-imagination and looks for other possibilities public space
may be used for.

49

Oldenburg, Ray. The great good place: cafs, coffee shops, community centers, beauty parlors,
general stores, bars, hangouts, and how they get you through the day. New York: Paragon House,
1989.
50
Ibid.
51
Ibid.

13

High Line, New York

Source: High Line and Friends of the High Line, Retrieved on 23 Feb 2012 from:
http://www.thehighline.org/
Figure 1.3 (The top left) picture is the abandoned New York High Line, which the organization
Friends of the High Line and Field Operations reimagined it as a potential park. (The top right) picture
is how the High Line looks today, and (the bottom picture) represents how the planners and designers
re-imagined the space.

14

Low Line Delancey Underground, New York

Source: Foderaro W. Lisa (November, 2011). Inspired by High Line, Park is envisioned with Sights
rd
Set Low. New York Times, Retrieved on 3 March 2012 from:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/22/nyregion/high-line-inspires-plans-for-park-under-delanceystreet.html?pagewanted=all
Figure 1.4 The Delancey Underground, also known as the Low Line, is located in Lower East Side
Manhattan, which is a proposal that is supposed to repurpose the abandoned trolley terminal into the
worlds first underground park.

15

Sugar Beach, Toronto

th

Source: Waterfront Toronto. Canadas Sugar Beach, Retrieved on 4 March 2012 from
http://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/explore_projects2/east_bayfront/canadas_sugar_beach
Figure 1.5 (The top left) picture is the former parking lot in the industrial area, which was rededicated
to a successful urban beach (top right and bottom right picture).

16

Overpass Repurposing Projects: I-5 Colonnade Mountain Bike Park, Seattle

Cyclist and other subcultures like skateboarders, experience marginalization from
spaces, whether it is on the streets or trails in the downtown area. In 2002, a group of
Seattle bike enthusiast (Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance)52 constructed a wide variety of
riding trails underneath Interstate 5 Highway also known as I-5 Colonnade (refer to Figure
2.0). Previously, the abandoned space was an area frequented by heroin addicts.53
Completed in 2005, the park is suitable for all levels of riders and for those with an interest
in Cross Country, Freeride, Trials, Dirt Jumping, or those who just want to get an idea of
what the sport offers.54 The impact of this space allows Seattle citizens or tourist to use the
recreational public space in the middle of city, which is rare to find. The park also portrays
the reoccurring theme of repurposing and a re-imagination of the space, allowing bike
enthusiast to create and plan their own urban experience in the city.

Diamond Hill, Hong Kong

The last example of repurposing overpasses in located in Diamond Hill, Hong Kong
underneath the Kwun Tong overpass (refer to Figure 2.1) which was completed in 1991.55
Although there is not much information about the repurposing of this structure, Christopher
Hume has made references to this structure in various articles in the Toronto Star. The
photograph in Figure 2.1 portrays the highly used pedestrian walkway, like an everyday part
of life. In Hong Kong, there is very limited public space, and re-purposing the Kwun Ton
overpass emphasizes the importance of pedestrian interaction with the urban fabric. These
spaces are destined to become successful because of the density and mix-use that
surrounds the overpass. As Toronto becomes denser, it is important to consider these case
studies and think how the space beneath the Gardiner Expressway may be re-imagined.
Furthermore, these two case studies portray two different examples of what other cities are
doing to revitalize the space underneath an overpass. It provides a creative and imaginative
solution in revitalizing the dead space underneath an overpass.

52

Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance is Washington States largest mountain bike advocacy and trail
building group. Created in 1989, Evergreen creates and protects sustainable mountain biking
opportunities in Washington
53
th
Seattle Parks and Recreation (2011) I-5 Colonnade, Retrieved on 24 March 2012 from:
http://www.seattle.gov/parks/park_detail.asp?id=4446
54
Richard, Terry (2010). Mountain bikers rock under Seattle freeway on I-5 Colonnade. Oregon Live,
th
Retrieved on March 24 from:
http://blog.oregonlive.com/terryrichard/2010/01/mountain_bikers_rock_under_sea.html
55
Bowman Marcus (2010). Hong Kong: Traditional markets and walkways in the sky. Spacing
st
Toronto, Retrieved on 1 February 2012 from: http://spacingtoronto.ca/2010/02/01/hong-kongtraditional-markets-and-walkways-in-the-sky/

17

I-5 Colonnade Mountain Bike Park, Seattle

Source: http://www.ridemorebikes.com/i-5-colonnade-mountain-bike-skills-park-seattle/ (Retrieved on

th
March 26 2012).
Figure 2.0 The I-5 Colonnade Mountain Bike Park under the I-5 Highway is the first of a new urban
model for mountain bikers. The park is a total of 2 acres. It has a wide range of technical trails for bike
enthusiast or beginners.

18

Kwun Tong overpass, Hong Kong

th

Source: Urban Toronto (2011) Retrieved on 26 March 2012 from:

http://urbantoronto.ca/forum/showthread.php/11766-West-Don-Lands-Underpass-Park/page6
Figure 2.1 People walking underneath the fully rededicated Kwun Tong overpass in Hong Kong. It is
another approach to repurposing space underneath an overpass.

19

What Makes Urban Spaces Successful?

An urban theoretical approach put forward by different scholars suggests the
elements a space needs in order for it to be successful. Gehls Life between Buildings
emphasizes that life between buildings is a dimension of architecture that deserves more
careful treatment. It is where social interaction and perception, urban recreation, and the
sensory experience of city life take place.56 Gehl distinguishes between necessary/functional
activities, optional/recreational activities and social activities in public spaces.57 Although
necessary activities take place regardless of the condition of the space, optional activities
are heavily influenced by how the space looks and what it has to offer. In a better space, the
more optional activity would occur and the longer necessary activities last. Social activities
depends on the presence of other people in the space, these activities include: children at
play, greetings and conversations.58 Spaces in cities and residential areas become
meaningful and attractive when all activities of all types occur in combination and feed off
each other. In addition, Gehl suggests a concept of winter spaces that is evident in
Underpass Park (refer to Figure 2.5). Gehl reminds us that street life does not necessarily
have to be confined to the summer months, especially cities that experience winter. He
asserts that winter weather require particular resources and activities, such as ice-skating
rinks and kiosks selling hot soups and hot drinks.
A more detailed framework in evaluating urban spaces entitled, The Social Life of
Small Urban Spaces, author William H. Whyte identified several key amenities that make or
break public spaces. In the study Whyte and his research group, The Street Life Project,
suggested an urban space should have sittable space, relationship to the street, sun, food
and triangulation.59 Street life and food is what brings people to places. Food vendors often
perform a social function as the mayors of a space. Whytes reference to a mayor is very
similar to Jane Jacobs idea of a public character who takes a role of encouraging polite
and civil exchanges in public places they inhabit. The concept of triangulation refers to street
performers, police activity (extreme example; robbing a bank) or street/public art that play an
important role in drawing in people in an urban space. Whyte describes this concept as
That characteristic of a public space that can bring people together, strangers. It's usually

56

Gehl, Jan (1987). Life between buildings: using public space. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold,
17.
57
Gehl, Jan (1987). 5.
58
Gehl, Jan (1987). 14.
59
Whyte H. William (1988). The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces. Direct Cinema Limited: New
York.

20

an external stimulus of some kind, could be an external feature or a happening.60 Public art
plays a critical role in Underpass Park as triangulation for the space and as a form to attract
people. The Mirage, designed by Paul Raff, engages the public through the playful use of
reflection to bounce light around the space (refer to Figure 3.2). Whyte offers us an insight
regarding the tools designers and planners need to consider when creating an urban space.
Chapter 5 of Death and Life of the American Cities takes on the role that parks play
in creating a dynamic and diverse community. Jane Jacobs suggests that we determine the
success of parks by what we surround them with (what we give to them, not what they give
to us).61 A park that is surrounded by mix-use buildings will likely be more lively and
populated. The underlying theory being that at any given time, different groups of people will
be using the park resulting in a continuous flow making it more lively, safe, and interesting.62
In addition, it reinforces Jacobs famous phrase eyes on the streets. For instance, the High
Line is constantly used by different groups of people throughout the day allowing for a safe
and lively environment. By adopting Jacobs eyes on the streets theory, in which buildings
and windows face the park brings a feeling of security. The success of the High Line may
also be attributed to the mix-use and density surrounding it. Jacobs also asserts that making
parks successful would entail hosting community programming, offering places for daycares,
or encouraging schools to use parks as a place for recreation.
In todays cities, there lies the challenge of creating an outdoor environment in
spaces that have been lost due to the automobile, effects of Modern Movement, urban
renewal and zoning policies.63 Trancik refers to these spaces as lost spaces, which he
defines as underutilized spaces within the downtown area or undesirable areas that could
potentially be redesigned to attract people back to downtown.64 Some of these spaces
include: unstructured landscape at the base of a high tower, surface parking lots,
abandoned waterfronts, spaces below an expressway, and industrial complexes that have
moved out to the suburbs.65 He asserts redesigning principles that designers should create
site plans that define exterior space rather than displace it. 66 Individual buildings should be
integrated with exterior public space so that the physical form of the city does not fall victim

60

Whyte H. William (1988).

Jacobs, J. (1961). The Death and Life of Great American Cities. New York: Random House. 90.
62
Jacobs, J. (1961). 95.
63
Trancik, Roger (1986). Finding Lost Space: Theories of Urban Design. New York: Van Nostrand
Reinhold, 1.
64
Trancik, Roger (1986). 3.
65
Ibid.
66
Trancik, Roger (1986). 18.
61

21

to separation.67 He also suggest that we should look closely at the traditional city (refer to
Figure 2.2), particularly at the principle of enclosure that gives open space its definition and
connection, creating workable links between spaces.68 These different elements of what
makes a space successful, allows us to rethink of spaces that could potentially be reimagined and made into something better.

Traditional and Modern City Form

Source: Trancik, Roger (1986). Finding
Lost Space: Theories of Urban Design.
New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 19.
Figure 2.2 These drawings illustrate the
spatial structure of traditional cities
(above) and the fragmentary form of the
modern city (below). In the traditional city,
urban blocks direct movement and
establish orientation; in the modern city,
the fragmentary and confused structure
creates disorientation.

67
68

Trancik, Roger (1986). 18.

Trancik, Roger (1986). 19.

22

Case Study: Underpass Park

The Underpass Park is the first attempt at transforming the space under and around
a series of overpasses in Toronto - and by far the most ambitious redevelopment of its kind
in Canadian history.69 The park will be 2.5 acres, boast 54 new trees, and convert a
neighborhood liability into a welcoming and distinct public space, according to Jeff
Geldart.70 Underpass Park is situated in the West Don Lands, and has become an emerging
example of revitalizing derelict unbuilt-upon urban space that only requires creativity and
imagination to rededicate the space to something more benign. Previously, it was a derelict
area with abandoned cars, old tires, garbage and broken chain link fences sitting under the
Eastern Avenue, Richmond and Adelaide Streets overpasses between Cherry Street and
Bayview Avenue (refer Figure 2.3). The imposing concrete structure of the overpass used to
act as a barrier between the north and south parts of the community. However, Underpass
Park innovatively re-engineers the area under the overpass to create an inviting public
space that connects the two parts of the West Don Lands. It contributes to the vibrancy of
the neighbourhood and the success of the development projects underway in the area.
Underpass Park represents a departure from traditional park design, and a
movement towards a hybrid landscape or socio-nature.71 Harris refers to the societal
relationship with nature, as well as the transformation of nature into commodities,
infrastructure and urban form itself.72 Designed by a landscape urbanism firm Philips
Farevaag Smallenberg places an emphasis on mix-use of space that is not evident in
traditional park design (refer to Figure 2.4). It provides different activities for a range of age
groups, which includes places to sit, chess tables, market space, community garden,
basketball courts, ball hockey courts and a skatepark. By placing courts and a skatepark
underneath the overpass, it alludes to Gehl winter spaces that allows recreational space
during the winter months for the public or residents to use (refer to Figure 2.5). In terms of
the different components that Gehl sets out for a successful public space necessary,
optional and social activity Underpass Park has potential for all three. It offers an attractive
space for a range of age groups; kids playing in the playground, teens or adults playing
69

Hume, Christopher (May, 2011). Underpass Park will change the city forever. Toronto Star,
th
Retrieved on 30 March 2012 from: http://www.thestar.com/news/article/997723--hume-underpasspark-will-change-the-city-forever
70
Geldart, Jeff (February, 2012). Interview. Development Manager at Urban Capital.
71
Harris, Lavender Amy (Jan, 2012). Interview; Parks and Public Spaces. Professor at York
University.
72
Desfor, Gene, and Jennefer Laidley (2011). Reshaping Toronto's waterfront. Toronto: University of
Toronto Press, 308 318.

23

basketball or ball hockey that leads to social activity; more people coming into the space
because of the presence of others.73 However, since this space officially opens in the
summer of 2012, it is hard to judge whether it meets Gehl criteria. It should also be
considered that the community surrounding Underpass Park will fully be occupied by 2015.
The skatepark being built in Underpass Park provides an opportunity for Toronto
skaters to claim a piece of urban space in downtown Toronto. Burnside Skatepark in
Portland, Oregon can be seen as a case study that displays the benefits of rededicating
space into a skate park (refer to Figure 3.0). Previously, it was a safe haven for the
homeless, squatters and drug users during 1980s.74 In 1990s, skaters kept lobbying for a
skate park in Portland. In response to the citys ineffectiveness, skaters took matters into
their own hands and decided build the Burnside Skatepark under the Burnside Bridge.75 It
gained popularity with local business owners due to the revitalization of the area. In 1992,
the city passed a resolution, which allowed the skatepark to be in place.76 Today, it is
maintained by individual members of the Dreamland Team77, and it remains one of the
skateboarding world's most revered, challenging, and highly respected locations.78
The rededicated space of the Burnside Skatepark allowed for skaters to claim a
space within the city. Skaters are usually a product of marginalization due to the lack of
space the city provides for them. Portlands Burnside Skatepark is a model for other cities to
follow, in which parks can be socially inclusive towards this subculture. Secondly, it portrays
the theme of repurposing; skaters were able to revitalize and rededicate a derelict space of
the city into one of the most known skate parks of the world. Lastly, Border suggests urban
space is a continual reproduction, involving not just material objects and practices, not just
codified text and representations, but also imaginations and experiences of space.79 By
building a skatepark in Underpass Park, it contributes to the attractiveness and desire for
skaters and other people to use the space.
Graffiti artists are often another subculture group that is marginalized from public
spaces. When visiting the site, there were a few columns that were slightly covered in graffiti
73

Gehl, Jan (1987). 14.

Full Tilt Boogie: Burnside Skatepark Story. Dir. Chris Bredesen. Dreamland Skateparks (2009).
Film. http://www.dreamlandskateparks.com/index.html
75
Ibid.
76
Ibid.
77
Dreamland Team is a small skatepark building firm located in Portland Oregon. They are known for
the Burnside Skatepark in Portland and other major projects around the world.
78
Full Tilt Boogie: Burnside Skatepark Story (2009).
79
Border, Ian (2003). A Performative Critique of the City: the Urban Practice of Skateboarding, 1958
nd
98 from The City Cultures Reader, Malcolm Miles, et al, ed(s)., 2 edition, Routledge, 291.
74

24

(refer to Figure 3.1). An idea to make the park more attractive would be to allow graffiti
artists to paint over some of the columns or designate specific columns for graffiti artists.
Graffiti artists would play a role of triangulation within the area, especially during the summer
months, similar to Graffiti Alley, in which people walking by would watch the graffiti artist as
he works on a piece of art. However, graffiti often has a negative stigma attached to it that
might push away children or families from the park.
In terms of Whytes principle of triangulation, Underpass Park launched a public art
competition, which the Mirage by Paul Raff was selected from the entries (refer to Figure
3.2). The Mirage will use reflectivity to draw people into the space. The concept is to engage
the public through the playful use of reflection to bounce light around the space and
emphasize its positive qualities in an interesting and sculptural way. The Mirage is also
supposed to create a connecting environment between the two neighbourhoods that is
separated by the overpass. The role of food vendors and cafs that Gehl highlights will also
have space within Underpass Park called the vendors prerogative or community space
(refer to Figure 2.4).80 In this space, they plan on putting a move box, which is essentially a
containerized box that is solar powered; it opens in twenty one seconds, the seats pop out
and someone is ready to serve coffee (refer to Figure 3.3).81 As Whyte suggested by
allowing food vendors into an urban space, they play a critical social role as mayors of the
space. In addition, people eating often attract more people to the space.
Underpass Park reinforces Jane Jacobss principle of eyes on the street and
surrounding a park within a mix-use community. By 2015, when the site becomes fully built,
River Citys five condominium developments will face the park, alluding to Jane Jacobs
eyes on the street theory in keeping a watch over the park.82 In addition, the park is
surrounded by mix-uses, which will make the space feel safe due to the continuous flow of
people throughout the day, as seen in Figure 3.4. Lastly, lighting which is a key feature of
the parks design ensures that the area is safe and inviting at all times of day. The park is lit
by a combination of LED lighting on the columns, and illuminated concrete ribbons at the
seating areas which create a variety of different illuminating effects.83 More than 50
overpass columns will be colourfully lit using diffuse LED spotlights (refer to Figure 3.5).

80

Pruss, Andrew (January, 2012). Interview. E.R.A. Architects Inc. Toronto, Ontario.
Geldart, Jeff (February 2012).
82
Geldart, Jeff (February 2012).
83
Geldart, Jeff (February 2012).
81

25

Future Opportunities the Gardiner Expressway Presents

From the 1990s until today, there have been many radical plans to alter the Gardiner
Expressway. However, most of these plans were never accomplished due to disagreement
or opposition from citizens. During my field study along east of Spadina and Lake Shore
Blvd W, I identified unused spaces beneath the Gardiner that could potentially be reimagined for another purpose (refer to Figure 4.0). Along this corridor, outlined in the red
box on Figure 4.0, it is home to multiple condominium units that are within metres of
proximity, Exhibition Place and Fort York. According to Hume, as more and more
condominiums continue to be built, there has been given little thought of what is happening
down below where glass meets grass.84 Since there is a high-density surrounding the
Gardiner, between Spadina and Dufferin, Hume suggests altering this unused space into
parks, playgrounds, shops, restaurants or other amenities.85 The Gardiner Expressway
could take a similar approach as the case studies mentioned above, turning the unused
space into a skatepark, mountain bike park or a public amenity. In London, England a
building appears between the west and east overpass called Folly for a Flyover that hosts a
successful summer-long program of cinema, performance and play, and boat tours (refer to
Figure 4.1). The space was rededicated by a non-profit organization Assemble during a
course of one month and has become a very popular space.

Folly for a Flyover

Source: Folly for a Flyover Assemble (2011).

th
Retrieved on 5 April 2012 from
http://www.dezeen.com/2011/07/05/folly-fora-flyover-by-assemble/
Figure 4.1: Folly for a Flyover is the work of
Assemble, the group of ambitious young
architects and designers. During the day and
evening theres a simple cafe on-site, once
dusk hits, it becomes a place to watch films
that has become very popular.

84

Hume, Christopher (March, 2012). Torontos towers and life under the Gardiner. Toronto Star.
Retrieved on 10 March 2012 from: http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1152503--most-torontonianshave-never-stood-here-that-s-about-to-change
85
Ibid.

26

An expressway comparative analysis by Waterfront Toronto suggests that an

infrastructure does not exclusively need to be a single-purpose.86 Cities like Paris and New
York have taken the initiative to rededicate the space below the expressway as linear parks
and public amenity space (refer to Figure 4.2). In 2009, Fort York took the first steps in in
attracting people under the Gardiner by putting up Watertable strings of blue LED lights
and sound installations but it did not really attract people because it had nothing to offer.87
On December 2009, Fort York announced the winners of the Fort York Visitor Centre design
competition Patkau and Kearns Mancini Architects which integrates the Visitor Centre
adjacent to the Gardiner Expressway, and re-imagines the space for public use (refer to
Figure 4.3).88 The front entrance of the Visitor Centre, as seen in Figure 4.3, is inviting,
engaging, and visually stimulating to draw visitors to the space. The design proposal has
also made the space underneath the Gardiner more appealing by placing sittable space,
bicycle parking, and green space. The Visitor Centre will also have exhibits, meeting rooms
and a caf attracting a broad range of age groups to visit the site.89 Furthermore, the other
three proposals that were submitted integrated the space underneath the Gardiner and
imagined this space as an opportunity to beautify and invite pedestrians.
As cities are becoming denser they are taking the opportunity to revitalize lost
spaces that could serve another purpose to enhance the public realm. Getting rid of the
Gardiner is not part of the solution, although it would be a brave message to Toronto.
According to the Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Task Force, they have recommended in
retaining the elevated portions from west of Dufferin Street to Spadina Avenue.90 The part
that may be removed is east of Yonge Street, but to the west is a fixture. The Gardiner can
also become environmentally friendly by placing planters along the Gardiner as seen in
Shanghais expressway (refer to Figure 4.4). In addition, it could possibly integrate trees and
grass below irrigated from the vast storm water runoff of the roadways. However, another
approach to the unused space beneath the Gardiner is to become similar to the case
studies explored in this research essay, which reimagines the unused space into something
more creative and appealing.
86

Waterfront Toronto (2009), Future of the Gardiner Expressway: Case Study Review
Bruun-Meyer, Nicole (2009). WATERTABLE: art commission under the Gardiner unveiled. Spacing
Toronto, Retrieved on 13 March 2012 from: http://spacingtoronto.ca/2009/10/22/watertable-artcommission-under-the-gardiner-unveiled/
88
Fort York National Historic Site Visitor Centre (2009). Patkau/Kearns Mancini Conceptual Design.
City of Toronto, Retrieved on 23 March 2012 from:
http://www.toronto.ca/culture/museums/visitorcentre.htm
89
Fort York National Historic Site Visitor Centre (2009).
90
Waterfront Toronto (2009), Future of the Gardiner Expressway: Case Study Review
87

27

Conclusion
After careful examination of the several case-studies presented, it is evident that
repurposing derelict unbuilt upon space can provide a great benefit to a community. The
case studies portrayed in the research project demonstrates that post-modern cities are
creating socially inclusive space, by transforming spaces that once was thought of as
derelict, dangerous, unused, ugly and scary. Underpass Park is a case-study that offers
informative lessons about the changing dynamics of public space and emerging landscape
urbanism theories. The research project also explores an alternative planning approach that
suggests a departure from traditional park planning towards a hybrid mix-use park planning.
There is an emphasis on mix-use recreational activities that attracts different age groups,
food vendors and subcultures like skaters. It also reimagines the space and opens up a gap
that has been ignored for decades. Not only will people around the neighbourhood use the
space, but people all across the city.
The concept of repurposing is also a lesson to Torontos lost spaces especially
the space below modern high-rise apartments such as St. James Town that can possibly
be re-imagined for a greater utilitarian use, as seen in the film One Millionth Tower. In the
portrayal of the documentary, it tackles and reimagines old modernist buildings that have
failed to create a lively community within the spaces below. Both the Mayors Tower
Renewal and the re-imagination of the space below, can be an initiative that can
demonstrate the importance of community space and the preservation of old modern
buildings. It could potentially result in a significant improvement to the conditions of a
declining urban area that is often linked to crime, drugs and violence. Underpass Park casestudy is just one idea of thousands of possibilities; implementing repurposing in underused
areas could potentially have a drastic change and affect in the Torontos streetscape.
The case-study of Underpass Park also portrays characteristics of a successful
urban space according to the different scholars explored in this essay. The space contains
the principles of triangulation, eyes on the street, winter spaces, mix-use activities, the role
of the food vendor, lighting safety and surrounded by a mix-use community. It provides an
opportunity for park planners, developers or designers to reimagine other spaces in
response to modernism inability to create significant and lively space. It is also an
opportunity to rethink about the space below the Gardiner Expressway, and possibly create
an environment that accentuates its surrounding neighbourhood. Cities have taken different
approaches to deal with the expressway problem. Some cities have removed it others have
replaced it, or done nothing about it. This research project reveals the benefits in

28

repurposing space and the potential benefits it could have on a community. Instead of
emulating our American counterparts like Boston or San Francisco, who have demolished
their elevated expressways perhaps this, is a chance for Toronto to embrace its own culture
and circumstances. A greater more interesting future is possible. It begins by embracing
projects like the Underpass Park that have successfully rededicated and reimagined an
urban space. By reimagining the Gardiner, it heals this neglected seam in the downtown and
envisions civic spaces that Torontonians can be proud of.

29

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Appendix A Informed Consent Form

My name is Anthony Sotomayor, and I am working on a project for a class at York
University in which I am doing research about revitalizing derelict un-built upon
urban space. One way I am doing this research is by talking with people who are
familiar with adaptive reuse, landscape urbanism, theories about successful public
spaces and about their experiences and impressions of it, and I hope to secure your
consent to speak with you. Your identity will remain anonymous; our conversation
will remain confidential; and you may end this conversation or decline to answer my
questions at any time you choose to do so. I am also happy to provide you with a
summary of the results of my research when it is done if you request this. If you
would like more information about my project, please contact my instructor, Jon
Caulfield, at warbler@yorku.ca or 416-736-2100, extension 30125; or I may be
found at sotoa@yorku.ca or 647-248-9264. Thank you for considering participation
in my research.

______________________________________
Participant Signature

______________________________________
Researcher Signature

______________
Date

34

Appendix B Interviews Questions

Questions for Amy Lavender Harris:
1. What is public space? What is a private space? What is a hybrid space?
2. What do you think of the redevelopment of the West Don Lands and Underpass
Park?
3. What other cities have taken this approach to revitalize the space beneath the
expressway instead of demolishing it?
4. Where do you see this type of adaptive re-use going in the future?
5. Would this form of adaptive re-use be a good idea for the Gardiner
Expressway?
Questions for Andrew Pruss:
1. Tell me about the adaptive re-use project youve done at the Distillery District?
2. Do you think Underpass Park is an adaptive re-use project?
3. Why would you call it a repurposing project instead?
4. Where do you see this idea of repurposing going in the future?
5. How does this idea apply to Tower Renewal?
6. How does this idea apply to lost spaces parking space, unstructured landscape
at the base of a high tower, space beneath expressway?
Questions for Jeff Geldart:
1. How did Underpass Park become develop? Did Urban Capital have a plan or
design before Underpass Park?
2. What do you think of Underpass Park?
3. What were some challenges?
4. Do you see development firms approaching overpasses differently in the future?
5. In regards to the condominiums being built near the Gardiner Expressway, East
of Spadina and Lakeshore, what approach should they take beneath the space
under the Gardiner Expressway?
6. Why is it better to create an amenity space beneath the expressway?
7. Are there other examples of cities that have revitalized the space underneath the
expressway?

35

Appendix C Figures Underpass Park Prior Redevelopment

Source: McKeown, Shawne (2011). Construction starts on first phase of Underpass Park. Citytv,
st
Toronto; Retrieved on 1 April 2012 from:
http://www.citytv.com/toronto/citynews/news/local/article/133453--construction-starts-on-first-phaseof-underpass-park
Figure 2.3 A photograph of the derelict area under the Eastern, Adelaide and Richmond overpass
that sat abandoned for many years.

36

Mix Uses in Underpass Park

st

Source: Urban Toronto (2010). Retrieved on 1 April 2012 from:

http://urbantoronto.ca/forum/showthread.php/11766-West-Don-Lands-Underpass-Park/page2
Figure 2.4 The (top picture) portrays the many different mix uses found in Underpass Park. This
space moves away from the traditional park design through the range of activities that target different
age groups and subculture groups (skateboarding). The (bottom right) picture represents the
playground groove and the community garden in place.

37

Winter Spaces

Figure 2.5 The basketball courts, future ball hockey and skatepark depicts Gehl concept of winter
spaces. It allows people or residents in the area to play basketball during the winter months that could
potentially attract other people to engage in these sports.

38

Burnside Skatepark, Portland Oregon

th

Source: Full Tilt Boogie: Burnside Skatepark Story. Retrieved on 15 March 2012 from:
http://www.dreamlandskateparks.com/index.html
Figure 3.0 This space used to be home for drug users, and homeless transformed into one of the
most admired skate parks in the world.

39

Graffiti Columns

Figure 3.1: The photograph shows two graffiti paintings scattered around the columns Underpass
Park.

40

The Mirage

th

Source: Urban Toronto (2012). Retrieved on 10 March 2012 from:

http://urbantoronto.ca/database/projects/underpass-park
Figure 3.2 The Mirage is a honey-comb mirror that the light reflects of the glass creating a connecting
environment between the two neighbourhoods.

Move Box

rd

Source: River City 2. Urban Capital, Toronto. Retrieved on 23 February 2012 from:
http://rivercitytoronto.com/
Figure 3.3: The move box is found in the vendors prerogative; it is able to move to different locations
and opens within 21 seconds.

41

Land Use

Source: West Don Lands Precinct Plan (May, 2005). Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Corporation.
Toronto, Ontario: Retrieved on October 2009, 37.
http://www.waterfrontoronto.ca/explore_projects2/west_don_lands
Figure 3.4 Within the black box are the mix uses that surround the Underpass Park, which include
retail, office and residential. Although the legend does not show, there are a few Toronto Community
Housing buildings within the box. In addition, there are a few surviving industrial uses as well. It
portrays Jane Jacobs principle of surrounding a park with mix uses, in order to have a continuous
flow of people throughout the day.

42

Underpass Park Lighting

th

Source: Urban Toronto (2012). Retrieved on 10 March 2012 from:

http://urbantoronto.ca/database/projects/underpass-park
Figure 3.5 Lighting is an important safety element in Underpass Park; it provides lighting throughout
the park, along 50 columns (as seen on the top left side), and on the ceiling of the overpass (bottom
right side).

43

Gardiner Expressway Future Opportunity

Figure 4.0 The area outlined in the red box, as seen in the map on top, represents opportunities for
development firms or park designers to reimagine the space below the Gardiner. The area within the
blue box is designated for automobile use. The picture on the (bottom left) is a condominium
construction site between Spadina Ave and Bathurst St. that is within metres of the Gardiner
Expressway. Within the last few years, this area has been surrounded by more and more
condominiums. It presents a great opportunity to repurpose the space beneath the Gardiner
Expressway due to the high density this area will have within a few years. Lastly, the picture on the
(bottom right side) represents the area near Strachan adjacent to Fort York and Exhibition Place. This
area also represents a great opportunity to repurpose the space beneath the Gardiner, due to the
amount of people that visit the Canadian Exhibition Place during the summer, and due to the
proximity of adjacent neighbourhoods like Liberty Village.

44

East River Esplanade, New York

Source: Lower Manhattan Development Corporation (2007). East River Waterfront Final
Environmental Impact Statement. November. New York, NY. Retrieved on 30 March 2012 from:
http://www.bape.gouv.qc.ca/sections/mandats/Complexe_Turcot/documents/DA59/DA59_GardinerEx
pressway_Toronto.pdf
Figure 4.2 The East River Esplanade that is below the Frank D. Roosevelt expressway has
transformed a dilapidated space into an open and attractive public space in 2011. Adjacent to the
financial district of New York it offers sittable space, biking routes and spaces for people to walk their
dogs. As cities become more populated it forces planners and designers to reimagine lost spaces like
underneath an expressway due to the land scarcity within downtown areas.

45

Fort York Visitor Centre

Source: Fort York National Historic Site Visitor Centre (2009). Patkau/Kearns Mancini Conceptual
Design. City of Toronto, Retrieved on 23 March 2012 from:
http://www.toronto.ca/culture/museums/visitorcentre.htm
Figure 4.3 The winning design proposal by Patkau and Kearns Mancini Architects plans on making
the space underneath the Gardiner Expressway more inviting and pedestrian friendly. The innovate
design of the Visitor Centre, as seen in the bottom picture, provides programs, exhibits, and a caf
that will captivate visitors of all ages.

46

Shanghai Street Greening

Source: Waterfront Toronto (2009), Future of the Gardiner Expressway: Case Study Review.
Retrieved on 14 March 2012 from:
http://www.nanosresearch.com/WaterfrontTO/library/Case%20Study%20Overview.pdf
Figure 4.4 In Shanghai landscape planters are placed along the expressway to enhance the visual
appeal and create environmental awareness. This is possible an approach the Gardiner Expressway
could follow by integrating trees and planting both above and below the elevated highway.

47