Pho Com Tam 168, a well-loved Toronto Vietnamese restaurant, is at risk of being displaced by a proposed condominium development. Located in a small retail plaza on Gerrard Street East, this neighbourhood favourite has been a staple for locals who enjoy its authentic dishes and welcoming atmosphere. However, plans for a new 12-story condominium development threaten to demolish the plaza, raising concerns about the future of this cherished dining spot. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between development and preserving the character of the community.
The Proposed Development
The proposed condominium development by Pymbo Investments aims to transform the retail plaza at 1012 Gerrard Street East into a modern 12-story condominium building. The plan includes 93 residential units and 320 square meters of new retail space at street level, designed to maintain pedestrian activity in the area. The architecture, led by RAW Design, takes inspiration from the red-brick homes in the surrounding neighbourhood. The building is designed with multiple volumes to reduce its visual bulk and blend more seamlessly with the area’s character. While the design aims to respect the local aesthetic, its height of over 44 meters may still raise concerns among residents.
A Look Back: The History of Pho Com Tam 168
This Toronto Vietnamese restaurant has been a part of the Gerrard Street East community for many years. The restaurant has become a go-to spot for authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho and broken rice plates. The plaza where Pho Com Tam 168 is located has also been an important part of the neighbourhood’s life. It has been home to various small businesses over the years, each contributing to the area’s character. Among them, Pho Com Tam 168 stands out as a gem, offering meals and a welcoming space where people come together.
For many in the community, the restaurant holds a special place in their hearts. Families have celebrated milestones here, friends have shared countless meals, and regulars have made it a part of their everyday lives. The potential loss of Pho Com Tam 168 due to redevelopment isn’t just about losing a restaurant; it’s about losing a piece of the neighbourhood’s history and identity.
Impact on Pho Com Tam 168 and Local Businesses
The proposed 1012 Gerrard Street East redevelopment has sparked concern among local residents and businesses. It threatens to displace longstanding establishments like Pho Com Tam 168. For this Toronto Vietnamese restaurant, relocating would mean more than just finding a new address. The restaurant relies heavily on its visibility and accessibility in a high-traffic area, which has been key to attracting its diverse customer base. Moving to a less prominent or more expensive location could threaten its ability to maintain operations and retain its loyal customers.
The redevelopment also raises broader concerns about Toronto’s approach to urban intensification. As the city grows, small businesses like Pho Com Tam 168 are increasingly vulnerable to being pushed out by larger condominium development. While projects like the Ontario Line subway and the forthcoming Gerrard Station aim to improve connectivity and spur growth, they also risk eroding the character of neighbourhoods.
The potential displacement of this Toronto Vietnamese restaurant highlights the need for thoughtful urban planning that prioritises economic development and the social and cultural fabric of Toronto’s neighbourhoods.
Height and neighbourhood Compatibility
At 44 meters, the building’s height far surpasses the existing low-rise homes and small commercial spaces that define the neighbourhood’s charm. This stark contrast has raised questions about how well the project will blend with the area’s character. The architects of RAW Design have tried to address these concerns by incorporating red-brick elements. Thus, breaking the building into smaller sections would make it less imposing. However, many residents feel these efforts may not go far enough to preserve the neighbourhood’s small-town vibe.
The proposed condominium development also raises practical concerns. Its height could overshadow nearby properties, reducing sunlight and privacy while potentially affecting the overall liveability of the area. The 93 condo units will bring more people to the neighbourhood, which could increase demand for parking, schools, and public services, placing additional strain on already stretched resources.
Transit-Oriented Development and Its Impacts
Transit-oriented development (TOD) focuses on building dense, walkable neighbourhoods near transit hubs. The 1012 Gerrard Street East project aligns with this strategy, combining residential and retail spaces in a transit-accessible location. However, TOD often brings challenges alongside its benefits. Higher property values and rents can push out long time residents and businesses.
The Future of Gerrard Square Mall
Next to 1012 Gerrard Street East, the Gerrard Square Shopping Centre is also slated for redevelopment. Plans aim to turn the mall into a transit-friendly community with a mix of housing, retail, and public spaces. This project complements the Ontario Line and is part of the same push for high-density growth. While the redevelopment promises modern amenities and improved transit access, it also risks losing the mall’s current role as an accessible shopping destination for locals. Many fear the new retail spaces will favour upscale stores, reducing affordability.
The Bigger Picture: Intensification and Urban Growth
The proposed redevelopment of 1012 Gerrard Street East is not an isolated project but part of a larger wave of urban intensification sweeping through Toronto. Strategic infrastructure developments, particularly the Ontario Line subway and the new Gerrard Station are driving this transformation.
Conclusion
The condominium development represents a pivotal moment for the neighbourhood. While it offers opportunities for growth and modernisation, it also risks displacing cherished local businesses like Pho Com Tam 168 and altering the community’s character. Balancing urban intensification with the needs of residents and businesses is crucial to preserving the area’s identity. Residents and stakeholders have an important role to play in shaping the outcome. By staying informed and actively participating in public consultations, the community can ensure their voices are heard and advocate for a development that benefits everyone. This is a chance to create a future that respects both progress and the rich heritage of Gerrard Street East.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will Pho Com Tam 168 stay open?
Pho Com Tam 168 is at risk of closing as the retail plaza is set to be replaced by a 12-story condominium building. Whether it can return after redevelopment depends on future lease terms and rent costs.
What is the redevelopment plan?
The plan, led by Pymbo Investments, involves constructing a 12-story building with 93 condos and 320 square meters of retail space at ground level. The design incorporates red-brick elements to blend with the neighbourhood.
Why are residents concerned?
Residents worry the building’s 44-meter height is out of scale with the area, the plaza’s small-business-friendly environment will be lost, and higher rents may make it unaffordable for current tenants like Pho Com Tam 168 to return.
How will the project change the neighbourhood?
The redevelopment could bring modern housing and improved transit access due to the nearby Ontario Line. However, it may displace long-standing businesses, increase living and commercial costs, and alter the neighbourhood's character.
What can locals do to voice concerns?
Residents can participate in public consultations held as part of the planning process. These meetings provide a platform to share concerns and suggestions with developers and city planners.
What support can businesses like Pho Com Tam 168 get?
Developers can help by reserving affordable retail spaces, offering relocation assistance, and prioritising existing tenants when leasing new commercial units.
Is the project good or bad for Gerrard Street East?
While it promises modern housing and better transit access, it risks displacing small businesses and raising costs, potentially affecting the neighbourhood's affordability and identity. Balancing these factors is key to ensuring sustainable growth.
