ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the built form environment into which the original Phase 1 residents resettled within the Regent Park footprint, and the social environment that accompanies it. In accordance with the Social Development Plan, the Regent Park redevelopment recognizes the original low-income tenants' claim to their neighbourhood. During the displacement phase, tenants who were temporarily relocated to housing elsewhere in the city often reported travelling back to the Regent Park neighbourhood to shop or participate in community-based programs, and to visit with relatives and friends. Pre-existing community organizations and institutions have been able—at the very least—to operate continuously through the redevelopment. One of the most conspicuous changes in the neighbourhood has been the altered streetscape and landscape. The new Aquatic Centre, which is quickly becoming well known across the city of Toronto, is an innovation that has been particularly successful at improving the public image of Regent Park.
