Welcome to the
Infrastructure Institute
Imagining innovative design and community building for better cities.
We are a training, advisory and interdisciplinary research hub at the University of Toronto’s School of Cities. Our vision is to build local and global expertise in planning for civil and social infrastructure, decision-making, and delivery.
Check out our advisory work for city-building strategies and lasting impacts in our communities.
Latest Feature
SPRE 101 Video Series
Our SPRE 101 Video series seeks to address the reality that mission-driven organizations often lack the expertise and experience necessary to expand their services through development. By explaining key SPRE concepts – including concept visioning, planning approvals, business and financial modelling, and site acquisition – this series provides organizations with the introductory knowledge needed to approach a new SPRE project.
Creative Mixed Use Interview Series
Creative mixed-use buildings bring together public, private, and non-profit uses in innovative and often unexpected ways. This series aims to delve into the process of constructing CMU buildings, by meeting with individuals and groups who work in, with, and around creative mixed-use buildings. Through our conversations we hope to uncover insights on how we can sustainably design, plan, and build cities that are centered around creativity, community, and care. Watch our exhibition interview series below or listen on Spotify!
In the Media
Toronto Star
MAY 2024
A new report suggests many parents are co-signing their kids’ mortgages to help priced-out young adults gain a toehold in pricey markets. Director of Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki spoke to the Toronto Star about the trials of homeownership for younger generations.
CP24
APR 2024
With the Gardiner Express Way under massive construction for years, now comes more delays while work is being done on the 401. Director of Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki talked with CP24 about what this could mean for Toronto traffic and downtown revitalization.
CBC Coast of Living
APR 2024
Mega-projects going over budget is the norm in Canada (and everywhere else), but why do planners always get it so wrong? Director of Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki talked with CBC Cost of Living about why it all comes down to the “optimism bias.”
CTV Your Morning
APR 2024
With more homes being built, more infrastructure and community spaces must be built as well. Director of Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki talked with CTV Your Morning about the importance of planning whole communities, not just housing.
CP24
APR 2024
With the Gardiner Express Way under construction for five years this is already having a big impact on traffic and bringing business to downtown. Director of Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki talked with CP24 about how we might be able to speed up this process.