8.0

Create Business Improvement Areas for the new arrivals

“From “Little Italy” to “Tehranto” the Toronto tradition continues.”

Identify new Ethnic Areas and treat them like little Italy, Chinatown or Danforth. This will recognize the newer arrivals and empower the diversity of our population. It will all be done in partnership with the business leaders of each group and help create new tourism destinations in our City.

As an Iranian-Canadian, I am often surprised that many Torontonians are not aware of where “Tehranto” is. Well, it is on Yonge Street from around Finch Avenue all the way up to Richmond Hill.

However, everyone knows where the more settled communities of immigrant origins are, such as the Italians and Chinese. The newer arrivals have settled in their chosen neighbourhoods and it is time they be places to visit on Toronto’s map. With the help of local businesses, many programs can be implemented to improve streetscape, landmarks or other ways by which the specific ethnicity can be celebrated. This will go a long way to make new arrivals feel at home, give them a sense of belonging and help improve Toronto’s diverse image.

Finally, this plan also has great economical benefits that the established immigrant neighbourhoods enjoying these Business Improvement Plans are already well aware of.