The Board of Directors has had some queries regarding plans for rebuilding of the ‘Tot Lot’, as part of the larger Podium Deck project. We’d like to clarify the situation, and ask the membership for input.
Yes, the Tot Lot will be rebuilt, better than ever. It will be surrounded by a fence of black-iron construction – 1/2-inch rails spaced 4 inches apart, similar to the rails on the sunroom balconies in the midrise. The area will be made accessible, with a proper ramp and fob-activated gate.
However, a question remains regarding the fence. There are two main options as far as height:
1. A low fence. We are informed that by code, the two-foot drop around the Tot Lot requires a fence at least 42 inches high. This would maintain the look of the space, but has a drawback of not providing any real security for the area, which has become a convenient stop for outsiders wandering through our neighborhood.
2. A taller fence, about 6 feet high. This would allow the Tot Lot to be secured against trespassers. It would also improve security for the adjoining patio areas belonging to Wilton Street units. However, it would alter the appearance of the area, and possibly look less inviting to our members.
For the Board, security has been an over-riding concern. Issues have lately included people sleeping in the Tot Lot space, keeping people in the units above awake with foul language, shooting up and leaving needles around, and using the alley as a washroom. Our recent police safety audit recommended creating strong demarcation of our property, with signs and physical barriers, such as fences.
Even so, there are clearly positives and negatives to both the shorter and taller fence options. Given that this fence will become a prominent feature of our Woodsworth environment, we want members to have every opportunity to voice opinions, or suggestions.
We’ll have to make a final decision soon, so please email any comments to our main Board address (Board@WooodsworthCoop.ca) within the next few days.
Woodsworth Board of Directors