TORONTO, Dec. 1, 2021 – York University is re-imagining more than 190 acres of land on its campus on Keele Street in Northwest Toronto. Yesterday, York’s Board of Governors approved “Living Well Together: Keele Campus Vision and Strategy,” a foundational document that sets a clear path forward and delivers on York’s commitment to create positive change.
Centered on York’s University Academic Plan 2020–25: Building a Better Future and the City of Toronto’s York University Secondary Plan, Living Well Together is framed as a response to the Call for Action to strengthen our impact on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“A 21st century university campus has an important role to play as an anchor institution — as a hub, as a resource for surrounding communities, and as a place to learn and grow,” said Rhonda Lenton, President and Vice-Chancellor. “This is a once in a lifetime chance to envision, shape and develop a university campus inspired by the future of higher education, the newly evolving organization of work post-pandemic, the diverse communities with whom we work, and our commitment to sustainability. It will enhance our efforts to strengthen the student learning experience; support new programs in emerging areas of need; and intensify research, entrepreneurship, and incubation, while also advancing community needs. I am looking forward to moving this exciting plan forward.”
Living Well Together begins with the reinvigoration of the Harry W. Arthurs Common, the location of York University station on the new Yonge-University Subway line, as well as the development of four new neighbourhoods within the Keele Campus including: a commercial centre; a high-tech district; a primarily residential district; and a second residential, commercial, and athletic neighbourhood closer to the Pioneer Village station, located in the Northwest section of the Keele Campus.
The approval of Living Well Together officially marks the beginning of the next stage of community consultation and engagement, which is expected to commence in 2022.
York University is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change and prepare our students for success. York's fully bilingual Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. York’s campuses in Costa Rica and India offer students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future.
For more information: Barbara Joy, Director, Media Relations and External Communications, barbjoy@yorku.ca 416-333-3374
