Oshawa Unveils Community Improvement Plan for Central GO Station Development

The City of Oshawa has adopted a new community improvement plan aimed at encouraging development around the future Central Oshawa GO Station. This initiative seeks to transform the area into a “high-density, complete community” featuring a mix of residential, commercial, and institutional developments, according to a report from city staff. The Oshawa City Council approved the plan, although the establishment of a Protected Major Transit Station Area will require provincial approval.

The area designated for development stretches from John Street and Eulalie Avenue in the north to Highway 401 in the south, and from Ritson Road to the Oshawa Creek Valley in the east and west directions. The station will be located at 500 Howard St., on the site of the former Knob Hill Farms. Local Councillor Brian Nicholson, representing the ward, described the property as “derelict,” indicating it detracts from the value of surrounding properties.

This project is part of Metrolinx‘s broader initiative to extend the Lakeshore East GO train line to Bowmanville, with completion expected in the 2030s, according to CEO Michael Lindsay. To stimulate development in central Oshawa, the improvement plan will provide funding to renovate vacant commercial properties and cover a portion of the increased municipal taxes on new housing developments. Additionally, the plan supports the city’s efforts to redevelop properties in the area.

Oshawa Council has also tasked staff with exploring further incentive opportunities. These could include reductions or exemptions for development charges and fees related to building permits and planning.

Concerns have been raised regarding the necessity of these incentives. Delegate Jim Clapp, who previously served as the finance commissioner and treasurer for Durham Region, and Councillor Derek Giberson expressed skepticism. They argued that the potential of the new station should inherently attract developers. Giberson cautioned against becoming “a little grant happy,” emphasizing that the city should not overextend public resources and taxes.

In response, Councillor Tito-Dante Marimpietri defended the incentives, noting that some community members initially believed developers would naturally provide student housing around local educational institutions, including Durham College and Ontario Tech University. Despite these expectations, housing developments did not materialize, prompting the need for a community improvement plan to support multi-unit housing initiatives.

By 2020, a previous community improvement plan had facilitated the construction of nearly 1,000 units along Simcoe Street North, although it expired at the end of that year. Marimpietri emphasized that the new plan is not about “giving anything away,” but rather about “stimulating the economy.” He argued that taking proactive steps is essential to modernize the city and enhance property values in the area.

As Oshawa moves forward with its community improvement plan, the focus remains on striking a balance between incentivizing development and ensuring the prudent use of public resources. The future of the Central Oshawa GO Station and its surrounding area holds promise, contingent upon effective collaboration between the city, developers, and provincial authorities.