Toronto to modify Black and Lavender Creeks with $323M in funding

TORONTO — The Black and Lavender Creeks in the Rockcliffe-Smythe area of Toronto are being modified to reduce the risk of flooding due to the impacts of climate change after a combined investment of more than $323 million from the federal government and the City of Toronto.

“The Rockcliffe-Smythe area is extremely vulnerable to the impacts of more frequent and severe storms. Recent flooding demonstrates the need for a robust and improved infrastructure to protect residents, property and the community,” said Hussen Ahmed, Minister of International Development.

The recent flooding in Toronto after a storm caused damage to the area. To prevent this from happening again, and keep the community safe, this project will modify the Black Creek and Lavender Creek channels, construct a new flood protection wall and several bridges, and complete culvert replacements. Improvements will also be made to the local sewer system and roads.

“We welcome the continued partnership of the federal government in protecting the Rockcliffe-Smythe community from flooding. Each time it rains, residents of this community are worried their basements might flood and their homes might be damaged. By investing in flood protection, we can mitigate the costly impacts of flooding on people’s homes and our public infrastructure,” said Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto.