A new 17-storey rental tower has been proposed near Runnymede station in the heart of Bloor West Village, signalling continued interest in transit-oriented development in one of Toronto’s most vibrant west-end neighbourhoods. The project would replace low-rise storefronts and modest buildings with a purpose-built rental residence that brings dozens of homes to a walkable stretch of Bloor Street West.
Located within the Runnymede Protected Major Transit Station Area, this proposal reflects ongoing city planning priorities to concentrate housing growth near major transit infrastructure, balanced with retail activation at ground level.
Project Overview: Design, Units & Amenities
Designed by architects—Alliance for King Edward Investments Inc., Emma Nikola Potemkin Ltd., and 1028651 Ontario Ltd., the proposed development would rise 55.5 metres and include:
- 60 purpose-built rental units, including 10 one-bedroom, 43 two-bedroom and 7 three-bedroom units
- Ground-floor retail totalling about 159 m²
- Indoor and outdoor amenity spaces totaling over 250 m²
- No vehicular parking, prioritizing transit and cycling
- 74 bike parking stalls, including long-term secure storage and cargo bike spaces
The design maintains a two-storey streetwall along Bloor Street West to reinforce the neighbourhood’s main-street character while allowing the tower to rise above it, helping bridge mid-rise context with transit‐oriented density.
Location & Connectivity: A Transit Advantage
The proposed site at 2273–2279 Bloor Street West sits approximately 210 m — a four-minute walk — from Runnymede station on Line 2 of the TTC subway. Jane station on the same line is about 550 m to the west, giving future residents access to frequent rapid transit service across the city.
Dedicated cycle tracks run along Bloor Street West, and north–south bike lanes on Runnymede Road further support sustainable transportation for residents and visitors.
Bloor West Village itself is known for its mixed retail, cafes, restaurants, and services that line Bloor Street, making it one of Toronto’s popular shopping districts and local hubs.
Planning History & Context
The site has a lengthy development history, with earlier applications dating back over a decade. A previous proposal endorsed a 7-storey mixed-use building in 2015, but more recent planning actions have realigned the assembly and brought forward the current application for a taller, transit-oriented rental residence.
The project also includes a Rental Housing Demolition and Conversion application in relation to the existing rental units on the site, part of the planning process required when purpose-built rental housing is replaced or significantly altered.
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What This Means for Toronto’s Housing Landscape
Toronto has faced ongoing rental housing shortages and affordability challenges in recent years. Transit-oriented rental developments like this proposal contribute to expanding the supply of rental homes in well-connected neighbourhoods — helping meet demand from commuters, families, and professionals seeking accessible urban living.
The concentration of growth along major corridors like Bloor Street West also aligns with broader planning strategies that aim to limit sprawl and maximize the potential of existing transit infrastructure. Increasing density around subway stations can reduce car dependency while enhancing walkability and neighbourhood vibrancy.
Challenges & Community Response
While transit-oriented intensification is supported in many planning circles, proposals for taller buildings — especially on traditionally low-rise main streets — can draw concerns from local residents and business owners regarding scale, shadow impacts, and neighbourhood character. Public consultation and city review processes will play a key role as this project moves forward and undergoes detailed evaluation.
Conclusion
The 17-storey rental proposal near Runnymede station represents a notable step toward transit-linked housing growth in Bloor West Village. With its location, unit mix, and design priorities that support active transportation and public transit use, the project fits within evolving patterns of urban intensification in Toronto — though it will continue through planning review and consultation.
