These are all the major changes Toronto saw in 2025. From significant transit upgrades to housing reforms, and preparations for the FIFA World Cup, the city has experienced significant transformations. This year marked a series of improvements that have reshaped the daily life of Torontonians.
Travel and Transit Improvements
2025 marked a year of significant transit developments in Toronto. The city saw major upgrades in its transportation infrastructure, including enhancements to highways, transit lines, and other essential modes of transport. The most notable accomplishment was the completion of the Gardiner Expressway construction, which reopened all six lanes between Dufferin Street and Strachan Avenue. Initially set to conclude in April 2027, the project finished 18 months ahead of schedule thanks to a $73 million investment from the provincial government.
Public transit also saw major improvements, with Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) fares frozen for the second consecutive year. The city also began major capital investments, including the introduction of 55 new Line 2 subway cars, the start of the Scarborough Busway construction, and the opening of the long-awaited Finch West LRT.
New Protections for Tenants
In an effort to protect tenants from bad-faith evictions or “renovictions”, the city implemented the Rental Renovation Licence Bylaw in July 2025. This bylaw requires landlords to obtain a license before starting renovations that necessitate tenants to vacate the premises.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
Toronto made significant strides in affordable housing in 2025. The city established the Housing Development Office, launched the Toronto Builds Policy Framework for City land, and completed construction on over 700 new affordable and rent-geared-to-income homes. More than 3,400 rent-controlled homes were constructed, and over 2,900 additional rent-controlled homes were approved under the Rental Housing Supply Program.
Support for the Local Economy
In response to economic uncertainties due to tense U.S. trade relations, the City launched the Love Local campaign. This initiative encouraged residents to shop Canadian and support Toronto businesses. As part of this campaign, the city also offered a 15% property tax reduction to about 28,000 small businesses.
Faster Emergency Response Services
Emergency services in Toronto also saw improvements in 2025. The city hired 263 new first responders, improved emergency response times, and reduced 911 call wait times by nearly 70%. The Toronto Community Crisis Service (TCCS) marked its first year of citywide expansion in 2024 and has responded to over 35,000 calls since its inception.
Preparations for the FIFA World Cup
With the FIFA World Cup just around the corner, Toronto ramped up preparations for the international competition. The city confirmed that it will host six matches at BMO Field, completed Phase 1 stadium upgrades, and started Phase 2 construction with MLSE. Fort York and The Bentway were announced as the city’s official FIFA Fan Festival locations.
Expanded Parks, Libraries, and Recreation Spaces
For the first time ever, all 100 Toronto Public Library (TPL) branches were opened on Sundays. Starting from summer 2026, all TPL library branches will operate seven days a week, year-round. The city also welcomed the opening of Biidaasige Park, the largest new park in a generation, along with 20 other new or expanded parks, 18 upgraded playgrounds, 38 improved tennis courts, and an addition of 31 pickleball courts.
Strengthened Climate Resilience
Toronto made significant strides towards climate resilience in 2025. The city completed phase one of the Fairbank–Silverthorn Trunk Sewer to protect homes from flooding, allocated over $5 million in basement flooding subsidies, and planted approximately 136,000 trees. The city also launched its first wastewater energy project, which reduced natural gas usage by 90%.
