Stormflow Surfacing Installation for the Yonge Street Linear Park Improvements Project

In the fall of 2024, a remarkable transformation took place in the City of Toronto along Yonge Street with the installation of a custom Stormflow system as part of the Yonge Street Linear Park Improvements Project (includes George Hislop Park, Norman Jewison Park and Alexander Street Parkette). This initiative aimed to enhance the urban landscape, integrating sustainable and visually engaging elements to create a more inviting public space. 

One of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of this project was the customization of the Stormflow installation. Unlike traditional applications, this installation featured a unique blend of custom colours (including pink), designed to create an eye-catching rainbow effect along the park’s pathways. The careful selection and blending of colors required installation expertise to ensure a seamless end product, harmonizing with the park’s overall aesthetic vision.

Beyond its visual appeal, the Stormflow installation plays a crucial role in sustainable urban development. Designed to manage stormwater effectively, the Stormflow system improves drainage, reduces surface runoff, and helps mitigate flooding risks—an essential feature for the busy Yonge Street corridor. The permeable nature of the material allows water to infiltrate efficiently, contributing to a greener and more resilient city infrastructure. Stormflow Surfacing was also used in areas where tree surrounds were needed, allowing water and air to penetrate to the roots while also providing pathways.

Despite the complexities involved, the execution of the project was a success, thanks to meticulous planning and collaboration among engineers, designers, and installation teams. The result is a dynamic, functional, and environmentally responsible enhancement to Yonge Street’s urban landscape. We worked closely with PMA Landscape Architects to make sure the project was executed to their plan.

The Yonge Street Linear Park Improvements Project exemplifies how infrastructure upgrades can blend sustainability with creativity. The innovative Stormflow installation not only elevates the park’s aesthetic but also underscores the importance of integrating environmentally conscious solutions into public spaces. As cities continue to evolve, projects like this serve as benchmarks for future urban development, demonstrating that functionality and artistic expression can go hand in hand.