the information below was accessed Feb 1st 2020 at the city waterfront site here
ROADS AND MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE
We will create new systems and extend existing systems. This includes utilities like hydro, lighting, gas and telecommunications. A new water distribution network will connect future communities to the existing municipal water mains. A new municipal sanitary sewer network and pumping station will carry wastewater from future communities to the Ashbridges Bay treatment facility. And a new stormwater system will manage rainwater during major storms.
We will rebuild the Don Roadway between Commissioners Street and Lake Shore Boulevard at a higher elevation to protect the lands east of the road from flooding during a major storm. The new road will include two vehicular travel lanes and sidewalks on each side.
We will work with Hydro One to adjust portions of its existing transmission line located in or near Commissioners Street East, the Don Roadway North and the Don Roadway Valley wall feature. A Hydro One utility bridge that currently crosses the Lower Don River north of the rail bridge, also hinders the flow of floodwaters and will need to be modified in order to deliver flood protection. We will coordinate with Hydro One to make sure our roads and flood protection features are designed to accommodate its infrastructure.
The new Cherry Street will include sidewalks, on-street bike lanes, a dedicated transit lane and two lanes of vehicular traffic. It will be built approximately 50 metres west of the existing Cherry Street to preserve the heritage structures located on either side of the existing street. Once the new street is in service, the existing street with be demolished.
Below is what the city claims will be the benefits of the Port Lands Flood Protection Project, all text below the city Feb 1 2020
The Port Lands Flood Protection Project will improve quality of life, bring nature back to an underused industrial site and better protect our neighbourhoods from extreme weather conditions. Some of the reasons for doing this work include:
More waterfront for everyone. This work creates a stronger connection between land and lake so that anyone who visits the Port Lands can enjoy a vast stretch of waterfront.
More nature and greenspace. The creation of the new river mouth will connect the Port Lands to a 195-hectare network of parks nestled within the ravine system that runs through Corktown Common past the Brick Works to Pottery Road.
Protection from the affects of climate change. Extreme weather events are on the rise and this work will protect 240 hectares of land within the southeastern downtown from flooding.
Improving the natural environment. We are cleaning contaminated soil and building new parks, wetlands and marshes. Our work on the river will also create a healthier and more natural outlet for the Don River and a new home for fish, birds and other animals.
More jobs and economic growth. This project will contribute over $4 billion to the Canadian economy.
A brighter future. When this project is complete, the Port Lands will finally become a place where our city can grow and evolve to better meet the changing needs of the people who live here.