The strong streetwall helps. If new buildings going up in this area help maintain the streetwall, and if the quality of building is improved such as at Murano then the overall appearance will improve. I also feel that streetscaping is imperative here: canopies of trees, nice paving and light fixtures, etc. A 'boulevard' approach will elevate Bay Street and I can see it becoming a very desireable location to live for those who like highrise living in the very heart of the city.
Agree with all that. The street wall is a big plus, and Bay isn't a lost cause. I suppose the frustration is that so much needs to improve here. 20 years ago, Bloor suffered from some of the same issues, but had luxury tenants to fall back on. Fast forward to 2009, and Bloor has transformed itself.
A lot of money has gone into improving the facades at street level, new tenants have moved in, and even the ROM Crystal has given the street scape a more cosmopolitan look. The Bloor Street Improvement Project will tie it all together.
Bay? It's not a retail strip, and most of the condos don't allow for much improvement at street level. Many may disagree, but I do think a bit more large scale retail would do wonders for Bay, but there aren't really any vacant lots left. We already have Canadian Tire at one end, and Yorkville at the other. It's no coincidence that Bay gets more interesting and sophisticated as it approaches either end.
Ultimately, Bay needs 3 or 4 impressive structures to elevate the rest of the street, some podium re-designs, and better sidewalks. Trees, pavement, flower beds, etc. It all makes a difference.
