Inside the abandoned airport being transformed into a $30 billion sustainable city

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🗞️ Driving the news: Toronto’s Downsview Airport, closed in 2024, is being transformed into a $30 billion sustainable urban development named "YZD"
• Spanning 370 acres, the project will house 50,000 people, repurpose airport infrastructure, and create green spaces to improve the city's sustainability and resilience

🔭 The context: The YZD project will repurpose historical structures while integrating sustainable practices like water management through bioswales and green roofs
• A pedestrianized park will replace the runway, and the area will feature eco-friendly transport systems and green spaces to support long-term climate adaptation

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The transformation will reduce the environmental impact of urban development by preserving existing structures to minimise carbon emissions, repurposing old infrastructure, and reintroducing native habitats
• The use of green roofs and water-absorbing designs will also improve biodiversity, support water management, and reduce flood risks

⏭️ What’s next: The project will be completed over 30 years, with the first phase beginning in 2026
• This ambitious urban redevelopment aims to set a new standard for sustainable city-building, focusing on resilience, green infrastructure, and minimizing carbon footprints

💬 One quote: “Preserving the site’s history is not just sentimental; it’s a practical decision in terms of its environmental footprint.” — Derek Goring, CEO of Northcrest Developments

📈 One stat: The YZD site will include 75 acres of green and open space to support the well-being of 50,000 future residents

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