While discussions about Buildings and Transportation & Infrastructure typically take the spotlight in the UT Forum, our 'Neighbourhood Node' threads give UT members the opportunity to discuss more fine-grained, community-oriented issues. Now featuring almost 150 community-specific threads, the Neighbourhood Node features a variety of discussions about topics ranging from gentrification, streetscape improvements, new retailers, and the impacts of development. 

A streetcar in Riverdale, image by UT Flickr contributor Adrian Badarco

One of the recently discussed neighbourhoods is the East Danforth. An ongoing conversation is focusing on the rebranding of a stretch of Danforth Ave between Donlands and Woodbine Ave as 'The Danny,' a name that has attracted some derision from locals. Another widely discussed topic on East Danforth is the neighbourhood's ongoing gentrification east of Greektown, where a cluster of new businesses are setting up shop.

Another neighbourhood that is seeing similar discussions is Gerrard-Little India, where talk of gentrification also dominates much of the discussion. Although new retailers and rising rents are changing the face of the neighbourhood, the community still hopes to maintain its Indian culture and historic character.

A night shot of Little India, image via UT Flickr contributor Frank Lemire

Moving towards the Downtown area, the Church and Wellesley thread is still one of the perennially popular threads on Neighbourhood Node. This thread features discussions on the construction at 411 Church (Axis Condos) and 70 Carlton (Stanley Condos)—two high-rise condos that will reshape the neighbourhood.

Excavation pits for Axis and Stanley (l-r), image by UT Forum member steveve

Other Church-Wellesley discussions include the opening of both Petro-Canada and A&W at Wellesley and Jarvis. The mulch-anticipated Halal Guys has also finally opened its doors at Yonge and Wellesley, prompting some early reviews from UTers.

Church Street in the Village, image by UT Flickr contributor Jamie Hedworth

Similar discussions on retail openings and gentrification have also been discussed in the Riverdale, Parkdale and in West Don Lands. Meanwhile, there's also been activity in the Newmarket and Downtown Markham threads, taking the scope of the discussions beyond the 416.  

 Want to get involved in your neighbourhood conversation, or keep closer tabs on the pulse of Toronto's various communities? Sign up for the UrbanToronto Forum here, and check out Neighbourhood Node? Don't see your neighbourhood listed? Members with over 20 posts can create new threads!