Toronto is gearing up to welcome numerous FIFA World Cup fans this summer, but new homeowners in the city may be in for some unwelcome news. Construction activity in downtown Toronto and major arteries will be severely limited from May 1 to July 31 to ensure clear roads during the six games hosted by the city. This restriction could lead to delays in construction projects, affecting up to 10,000 people who were expected to move into new homes this year. Builders and developers are concerned that as a result, move-in dates could be pushed back by as much as two months.
Scott McLellan, the chief operating officer of developer Plazacorp, expressed that buyers of residential towers in downtown Toronto may need to make alternative living arrangements due to these delays. The city has established a no-roadwork zone in specific areas during the World Cup period, but the reasons behind such extensive restrictions remain unclear.
While the restrictions have caused shock and confusion among builders and developers, the city has indicated that exemptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis to allow construction to continue where feasible. However, industry insiders believe that the individual evaluation process may create further uncertainty and hinder construction planning.
Builders emphasized that the summer months are crucial for construction projects and any disruptions during this period can have significant repercussions. The costs of delays, penalties for missed deadlines, and potential impact on subcontractors are additional concerns raised by industry representatives. In contrast, Vancouver has proactively informed builders about potential road restrictions during the World Cup, demonstrating a more proactive approach to managing construction disruptions.
