LRT news
The Idler has been doing some research to uncover the truth behind the long-delayed LRT construction project. Yes, that one – Line 5, the Eglinton Crosstown gift that keeps on giving. The 23-stop, $12.8 BILLION transit line was expected to open in 2020, then 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 … and now 2025. Following an anonymous lead from inside the corporation, the Idler has now discovered that numerous insiders are hinting that owing to a series of technical problems, the entire project will be mothballed, and the transit line will be converted and re-purposed to become a bike and pedestrian pathway. You heard it here first! The new opening date for the pathway is expected to be April 1st, 2026. Keep reading this space for the latest updates.
Loads of dirty fun
Laundromats are widely considered to be stable, profitable and recession-proof businesses, amirite? Why then are there no laundromats in Leaside? A reader wrote to us: “As a 10-year Leaside resident with no access to laundry (old apartment, with no onsite laundry or allowed in the units) there is a big need for many.” They mentioned that there used to be one on Mt. Pleasant across from XO Gelato, but that laundromat closed during Covid. This Idler recalls days gone by when there was a laundromat on Bayview near Manor Rd. So, what are the options for those in need of a wash and spin? The nearest laundromats are both located in Thorncliffe Park on Overlea Boulevard – The Laundry Boss and East York Coin Laundry. So, do we smell opportunity? Anyone want to start a new business – how about Leaside Laundry on Bayview?
Are magnolia trees the cherry blossoms of Leaside?
Each spring nature lovers flock to experience the ephemeral beauty of the beautiful and short-lived cherry blossom – the Japanese Sakura tree. The most impressive views in Toronto are long known to be found in High Park. Bloom development is temperature sensitive, and a warmer spring encourages cherry trees to bloom earlier. For the past few years, the full bloom period has come towards the end of April. Closer to home a wonderful array of cherry blossom trees can be found surrounding the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre. SakuraFest is a month-long celebration of the Sakura trees and includes activities for the whole family (https://jccc.on.ca/).
But what about the magnificent magnolia? Magnolias are one of the oldest flowering plants, which date back 95 million years. Although there are many varieties of flowering magnolias, the hardiest of all magnolias, the Cucumber Tree, is the only one native to Ontario. A more common and popular magnolia found in Leaside is the Saucer Magnolia, known for its large, cup-shaped creamy flowers with pink and purple hued colours. We would love to know where your favourite magnolia trees are in our neighbourhood. Send us a picture.
Elections – two down, one to go?
We just love elections! Locally, political newcomer Stacey Cline has been elected as Trustee for Toronto District School Board, Ward 11 (Don Valley West). Garnering 51% of the cast votes, Cline follows former Trustee Rachel Chernos Lin, who vacated the position following her election to Toronto City Council.
Provincially, incumbent Liberal Stephanie Bowman was re-elected to the Ontario Legislature for a second term. Bowman received a resounding 57% of voters and was part of the Ontario Liberal Party’s regaining of official party status. The Progressive Conservatives, led by Premier Doug Ford, received their third majority mandate.
Federally, Leasiders will return to the polls following a federal election call by new Prime Minister Mark Carney. Long-time Liberal incumbent MP Rob Oliphant is expected to run for re-election, while the Conservatives and NDP are still lining up their candidates. Stay tuned to learn more.
LRT – not so fake news
April Fool’s! It is now widely reported that trains will be running by the fall of 2025. Really!