Perhaps it won't be seen as an upgrade by many, but then again there are many newere arrivals who will appreciate it just the same. It's inevitable that more street activity become the norm in places like Leslieville as we continue to see more mid-rise urban infill happen throughout the core. All those extra folks are going to need places to dine, drink, shop, etc. Sleepy, almost quant neighbourhoods are going to perforce wake up a little. It won't necessarily be a bad thing and those who dislike the changes being visited on the east end can always pack up move out of the city - because that sleepy old norm is pretty much toast. Even with the cooling-off of the condo and housing market I'm betting we will continue to see the approval of infill projects - and, correspondingly, more street life.
As an aside, an interesting development is 629 Eastern's imminent return to form as a film and television production facility, after those dormant, derelict years during which the Walmart battle and the G20 detention facility were the only news coming out of that huge acreage. It's a good sign for the entertainment business in the city. Looking forward to snagging a contract there one day so that I can walk or bike to work without even breaking a sweat.
