Toronto’s waterfront is on the verge of a dramatic transformation as plans move ahead for the first residential neighbourhood on Ookwemin Minising—the city’s newly created artificial island in the Port Lands.
Once an industrial area, the island was made possible through the massive Port Lands Flood Protection Project, one of the largest infrastructure initiatives in Toronto’s history. Its name, Ookwemin Minising, means “place of the black cherry trees” in Anishinaabemowin, reflecting the site’s connection to Indigenous history and the natural landscape now emerging along the eastern waterfront.
The First Homes Are on the Way
Waterfront Toronto has launched the search for a development partner to build the island’s first residential project, marking the beginning of what is expected to become an entirely new mixed-income community.
The initial phase will include approximately 700 homes, with a goal of dedicating 30% of the units to affordable housing. Over the coming years, the broader vision for Ookwemin Minising and nearby Quayside could bring up to 14,000 new homes to Toronto’s waterfront.
A Billion-Dollar Investment in the Future
This ambitious transformation has been backed by substantial public investment. Governments have collectively committed $1.4 billion to flood protection infrastructure, along with an additional $975 million for roads, parks, and public spaces that will support future residents and businesses.
The island is also bordered by wetlands and the newly created Biidaasige Park, whose name translates to “sunlight shining toward us.” Together, these green spaces are designed to create a more resilient and environmentally friendly waterfront.
Transit, Jobs, and Growth
The project extends well beyond housing. The recently approved Waterfront East Rapid Transit Line is expected to connect the neighbourhood to downtown and the broader city, improving mobility while supporting future growth.
Officials also anticipate significant economic benefits, estimating that waterfront revitalization projects could generate around 100,000 skilled trade jobs and contribute more than $13 billion to the economy over time.
Challenges Still Ahead
Despite the momentum, the project faces some uncertainty. Ongoing discussions surrounding the potential expansion of Billy Bishop Airport have raised questions about future building heights and development limits in parts of the waterfront, including the Port Lands.
Even so, with flood protection work largely complete, zoning already approved, and infrastructure construction expected to begin soon, Toronto’s newest island is steadily moving from vision to reality.
For a city constantly evolving, Ookwemin Minising represents one of the most ambitious urban development projects in generations—one that promises new homes, new parks, and an entirely new neighbourhood rising from the water’s edge.
Get involved.
Sotheby's International Realty Canada, Brokerage. Sotheby's International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates, Inc. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Website designed and powered by 
. All Rights Reserved.