In the Community. Making a Difference.
The Centre for Urban Research and Land Development is an expert-led research Centre, dedicated to formulating policies and solutions to address the concerns confronting urban growth and change within the Greater Golden Horseshoe, as well as educating students to take leadership roles in these pursuits. Its orientation is founded on uniting economics and market analysis within the context and understanding of social and environmental considerations.
In The News
July 13, 2025
Offrir un toit aux personnes en situation d’itinérance au-dessus d’un casse-croûte (external link)
ICI Radio-Canada speaks with Frank Clayton, CUR Senior Research Fellow, regarding a Toronto restaranteur's proposal to transform his snack bar and neighbouring building into affordable housing units for people experiencing homelessness. Clayton points out that if property owners want to build a rental property to donate to an organization, that is their right - however, cautions that even if it's affordable to begin with, a potential new buyer could always raise rents.
By: Marion Bérubé
July 7, 2025
As part of their industry updates, Urban Toronto highlights CUR's recent economic report which underscores the urgent need to revitalize Downtown Toronto. A joint study with the Real Assets Area at York University's Schulich School of Business, the report puts a spotlight on the downtown's critical role in Canada's economy, generating 117.7 billion in GDP in 2023 - 43.7% of the city's total. The study finds that targeted investments in infrastructure, safety, attractiveness, cleanliness and accessiblity are essential in rebuilding public confidence and making downtown Toronto more welcoming for workers, residents and visitors.
July 3, 2025
TorontoToday.ca quotes Chris De Sousa, Urban and Regional Planning Professor and CUR Management Team, on the popularity of Toronto's tiny parks. With approximately 500 parkettes spanning the city, these green spaces can improve the psychological wellbeing of nearby residents, along with providing storm water management and property value increases.
By: Alex Flood
Advisory Committee
Staff and Management Team
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