Gardiner Expressway: Toronto studying possible 7-km trail

A study launched in December will guide planning of a proposed seven-kilometre multi-use trail under the Gardiner Expressway, and is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

A study launched in December will guide planning for a proposed seven-kilometre multi-use trail under the Gardiner Expressway. The Bentway, a non-profit that activates public space, is working with the City of Toronto on the study. The trail concept comes from the Under-Gardiner Public Realm Plan that city council approved in 2024. Early maps show the route expanding from The Bentway and running from Dufferin Street to the Don Valley Parkway, with branches to downtown and the waterfront. Key facts: - The study launched in December and is expected to be completed before the end of the year, according to project partners. - The proposal describes a seven-kilometre multi-use trail intended to serve pedestrians and cyclists as an active transit corridor. - Early routing shows the trail running parallel to the water from Dufferin Street to the Don Valley Parkway, with north–south branches linking downtown and the waterfront. - The trail would pass through public spaces and private developments, and the study will include consultation with property owners. - The study will be informed by recommendations on wastewater management, trail navigation systems, and site-specific planning. - The Bentway is cited as an example of revitalized space beneath the Gardiner; it draws large winter crowds at its skating path and was named a fan festival site for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and a city councillor described the study as "exciting." Summary: If carried out, the trail would create a continuous under-Gardiner link that aims to provide active transit connections and new public gathering spaces. The current study will shape detailed planning and technical recommendations and is expected to finish before the end of the year; implementation timing remains undetermined at this time.