Underpass Park

Slivers of sunlight pierce the concrete jungle above us, illuminating Underpass Park. This isn’t just any park. Underpass Park is a testament to Toronto’s ingenuity, a vibrant space carved out of what was once a forgotten, derelict area beneath the Eastern Avenue, Richmond, and Adelaide overpasses. Underpass Park is the largest park of its kind in Canada, and the first in Toronto. This innovative urban oasis was designed by landscape architects PFS Studio in collaboration with The Planning Partnership. The park was built in two phases. The first phase, completed between St. Lawrence Street and Bayview Avenue, brought life to a previously neglected space. The second phase, west of St. Lawrence Street, opened in 2015, further expanding this unique community asset. Underpass Park is a brilliant example of turning urban blight into a vibrant community hub. The park’s design cleverly incorporates the existing concrete beams and columns, creating a unique architectural feel and offering year-round weather protection. The park is divided into distinct areas, each offering something different. A playground with swings, a teeter-totter, hopscotch, and 4-square provides fun for kids of all ages. There are also basketball half-courts and a skatepark with various obstacles and rails for those seeking more active pursuits. Open spaces are designed to host community events, markets, and festivals, bringing the community together. Art is woven into the fabric of Underpass Park. Paul Raff Studio’s “Mirage” uses reflective surfaces to bounce light around the space, creating a playful and engaging experience. This public art installation was the result of Waterfront Toronto’s first artist competition, held in 2009. The park’s lighting design is just as captivating. A combination of LED lights on the columns, in-ground lights, and illuminated ribbon walls creates a magical atmosphere, especially at night. These ribbons, crafted from concrete and ipe wood, not only provide seating and gathering spaces but also add visual interest with their unique shapes and colorful nighttime illumination. Underpass Park is more than just a park. It’s a symbol of urban renewal, a place where community thrives, and a testament to the power of innovative design.