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Toronto's shoreline holds untapped potential that could transform the city's global standing. Tim Kocur, Executive Director of the Waterfront BIA, reveals that what we see today represents only half of what's possible for the 10-kilometer stretch connecting Exhibition Place through the central harbor to the developing Port Lands.

Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) occupy a unique space in urban development—technically agencies of the city but independently funded and operated by local businesses. The Waterfront BIA raises $2.5 million annually to support everything from social media promotion and street cleaning to major public space improvements, community events, and policy advocacy. 

What stands out in Kocur's approach is the BIA's role as the glue between major waterfront stakeholders. With Harbourfront Centre, Waterfront Toronto, Exhibition Place, the Toronto Islands, and Port Toronto all operating independently, coordination becomes essential. "We're the eighth largest waterfront stakeholder," Kocur explains, positioning the BIA as the glue binding these separate visions into something cohesive.

Perhaps most surprising is Toronto's standing as the ninth-best city globally in benchmarks measuring arts, culture, quality of life, and urban experience. Drawing inspiration from waterfronts around the world—from Baltimore and San Antonio to Cape Town’s Victoria & Albert development—the BIA focuses on identifying gaps and crafting creative solutions. 

One of their latest projects included a wayfinding signage program that solved a persistent problem where visitors struggled to locate major attractions despite being only blocks away. Their Waterfront Reconnect initiative is transforming forbidding highway underpasses into vibrant, illuminated gateways to the shore.

Ready to experience Toronto's waterfront transformation firsthand? Follow the Waterfront BIA on social media to discover the latest events and activities that are reshaping this dynamic neighborhood. 

Don’t go too far! Tim’s back for Part Two, where we dive into some of the most pressing issues facing Toronto—from affordable housing and homelessness to exciting new developments like a hovercraft service connecting Toronto to Niagara. Tune in to hear how Toronto’s waterfront is transforming into a world-class destination.

Learn more about the Waterfront BIA here:

Waterfront BIA

Check out the Toronto Board of Trade report published with the Waterfront BIA:

Ripple Effect: Unlocking Toronto’s Waterfront Potential 

Check out the Toronto Waterfront Festival Happening June 28-29, 2025 details here:

Toronto Waterfront Festival