Ontario Construction News staff writer
Hazelview Investments has secured one of the largest CMHC-insured loans to date under the MLI Select program to support the construction of 856 purpose-built rental units at the corner of Bloor Street West and Dufferin Avenue in Toronto.
The construction contractor for the Bloor & Dufferin development in Toronto is Deltera, a prominent construction management firm. The architect is architectsAlliance.
The development is part of a large-scale, master-planned community designed to combine housing, public amenities, and sustainable infrastructure in a dense, transit-oriented neighbourhood.
Hazelview’s application exceeded the MLI Select program’s maximum benefit threshold by earning a total of 120 points, qualifying under both energy efficiency and accessibility categories.
The project achieved the full 100-point energy efficiency score by targeting a 40% improvement over the 2017 National Energy Code for Buildings. This improvement is expected to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve air quality and comfort for future residents.
An additional 20 points were earned through Rick Hansen Foundation Level 1 certification, with all units designed to be visitable and common areas barrier-free. A portion of the apartments will meet full accessibility standards under the CSA B651:23 code, supporting residents with disabilities, older adults, and families.
The broader redevelopment plan includes a $79.8 million community benefits package. Key components include:
- city-owned community hub and daycare in the former Kent School building
- eight-storey building with 56 affordable rental units to be transferred to the City
- bus-accessible public road to improve transit access and safety
- new public park
- underground pedestrian connection to Dufferin subway station
“This financing allows us to move forward confidently with a project that meets high standards for livability, sustainability, and financial performance,” said Michael Williams, Head of Development at Hazelview Investments.
Barry Gidney, AVP, Commercial at First National, called the project “the kind of multi-unit housing Toronto needs very badly,” describing the development as “a true vertical neighbourhood” that is “accessible, sustainable,”.
For more information, visit: Bloor & Dufferin – Hazelview.
