Toronto’s Urban Design: A Double-Edged Sword for Health

Toronto’s urban design has come under scrutiny for its impact on residents’ physical and mental health. Neuroscientist Robin Mazumder, who returned to Toronto on his 40th birthday, emphasizes the city’s diverse experiences but also acknowledges the challenges posed by its layout. Having lived in various major cities worldwide, Mazumder notes that while Toronto excels in cultural richness, it also raises questions about accessibility to health-promoting environments.

The relationship between urban design and well-being is complex. Experts agree that the physical environment significantly influences health outcomes, from how close residents live to grocery stores and parks to the overall walkability of neighborhoods. A key element in promoting health is walkability, which encourages physical activity among residents. Studies show that cities with walkable neighborhoods tend to have lower rates of obesity and diabetes. According to Brent Raymond, a landscape architect and planner with the Toronto-based firm DTAH, effective urban design requires more than just sidewalks; it must ensure essential services are within walking distance.

Research has demonstrated that residents living in areas with a higher density of amenities are significantly more likely to engage in regular walking. For instance, a study conducted in Montreal revealed that women aged 45 and older in walkable neighborhoods were 53 percent more likely to walk at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Furthermore, access to grocery stores with healthy options within walking distance encourages healthier eating habits. As a solution, many experts advocate for mixed-use zoning, which integrates residential and commercial spaces to create more walkable environments.

The older neighborhoods in Toronto, such as Cabbagetown and Corktown, are often cited as models for walkability. These areas were built prior to the rise of the automobile and are designed for pedestrian access. In contrast, many suburbs in the Greater Toronto Area require residents to rely on cars, contributing to a decline in overall well-being, according to David Gordon, a professor at Queen’s University. He points out that suburban living has particularly affected children, who no longer walk or bike to playdates as they once did. This car-dependent lifestyle has been linked to an alarming rise in childhood obesity rates across Canada, which have tripled in the last 30 years.

Public transportation also plays a critical role in fostering a healthy city. Marie-Paule Macdonald, an associate professor of architecture at the University of Waterloo, emphasizes that a well-connected transportation system encourages residents to engage in more physical activity. Research shows that areas with robust public transit options tend to have higher levels of physical activity among residents. Cycling, too, offers numerous health benefits, including reduced risks of cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.

Mazumder appreciates Toronto’s bike lane system, citing the Harbourfront as an area that effectively supports non-drivers. However, he has expressed concern over the provincial government’s recent decisions to remove certain bike lanes, as studies indicate that such actions could compromise traffic safety without alleviating congestion. He advocates for a comprehensive approach to enhance bike lane networks and integrate them with other transit options.

Access to green spaces is another vital aspect of urban health. Jeffrey Brook, an associate professor of public health at the University of Toronto, identifies four primary reasons why green spaces are essential: they reduce stress, enhance physical health, improve environmental resilience, and foster community cohesion. Studies have shown that proximity to green spaces correlates with reduced rates of chronic diseases and lower all-cause mortality.

Unfortunately, access to these green areas is not equitable across Toronto. Research indicates that low-income neighborhoods have significantly less access to green spaces, with the bottom 20 percent of residents having access to only seven percent of the city’s parks, while the top 20 percent enjoy 40 percent. Gentrification has exacerbated these disparities, as improved infrastructure tends to drive up property prices, displacing lower-income residents.

Strong communities are essential for overall health, as social isolation can have a detrimental impact equivalent to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. Kate Mulligan, an associate professor at the University of Toronto, highlights the importance of creating “third places” where residents can gather and foster connections. These environments can be coffee shops, libraries, or parks, and should host community events to encourage participation.

One notable example is the Bentway, a public space under the Gardiner Expressway that has transformed into a vibrant community hub. Mulligan describes it as a “communal backyard” that offers green spaces and hosts various events, providing residents with opportunities for social engagement. The Bentway exemplifies how thoughtful urban design can promote health, well-being, and community connection.

As Toronto continues to evolve, addressing the health implications of its urban design will be crucial. With careful planning and a focus on inclusivity, the city can improve access to health-promoting environments for all its residents, ensuring that urban development does not come at the expense of community health.