Preserving a cherished heritage landmark while strengthening safety, access, and everyday connections

Glen Road Pedestrian Bridge and Tunnel Improvements

The Glen Road Pedestrian Bridge and Tunnel has long been a familiar and valued landmark in Toronto, connecting neighborhoods and supporting daily movement across the ravine. Over time, structural issues began to limit its safety and performance. Interim emergency repairs in 2015 helped keep the bridge in service, but it was clear a longer-term solution was needed. The City of Toronto turned to our team to help strengthen the bridge while improving how people move through and experience the space.

As the bridge design prime consultant, we worked closely with the City and DTAH, a Toronto-based architectural firm, to design a new bridge that follows the original alignment and preserves defining features of the historic steel rigid frame structure, including its inclined legs. At the same time, we widened the deck to better support pedestrians and cyclists and expanded the tunnel connection. Together, these upgrades strengthen a key link between Rosedale, North St. James Town, Bloor Street, and the nearby Sherbourne TTC station.

Safety, accessibility, and visibility guided every decision. V-shaped barriers act as a suicide deterrent while keeping the bridge open and welcoming. Integrated LED lighting improves sightlines across the bridge and through the tunnel. A gently sloped pathway provides universal access, bicycle troughs support active transportation, and larger tunnel openings bring in more daylight and natural surveillance. Public art by Inuit artist Couzyn Van Heuvelen is integrated throughout the site, adding meaning and warmth to the space.

Since opening, the bridge and tunnel have been well received for their openness, improved safety, and ease of use.