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.

DesignTO opening reception

Read Infrastructure Institute’s research papers and publications.

Learn more about our Groundwork, FutureBUILDS and Roadmap Connect programs.

Find out about our work involving public presentations, exhibitions and events.

Check out our advisory work for city-building strategies and lasting impacts in our communities.

Latest Feature

Essential Spaces: Real (Estate) Solutions for Community Needs

This project examines the real estate landscape of the GTA’s community services sector. The research analyzes the distribution of owned and leased community services real estate in Peel, Toronto and York Region. By utilizing geospatial data, we analyze changes over time and provide insight into risks and opportunities for preserving and developing CRE within the community services sector. This research asks: what is the extent of risk associated with real estate ownership and rental prices in Peel, Toronto and York Region for community service organizations, and how might CRE be leveraged to mitigate these risks? 

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.

In the Media

Toronto Star

DEC 2024

Many Torontonians already travelling on foot for fun. But urban geographers say it could serve a greater purpose. Director of the Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki spoke to the Toronto Star about his love of walking around our city.

CBC

DEC 2024

Work on Queens Avenue bridge due to start in 2026, wrapping up the next year. Director of the Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki talked with CBC about how many Canadian cities are facing major Infrastructure repairs at this moment.

Toronto Star

DEC 2024

From CityPlace to Regent Park, the city has tried to build dense new hubs before, with varying success.. Director of the Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki caught up with Toronto Star about the community landscape of Toronto.

CBC

NOV 2024

Director of the Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki weighs in on what Toronto transit could look like by 2050.

National Post

NOV 2024

Director of the Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki’s spoke with the National Post about the rampant housing development.

CBC Metro Morning

NOV 2024

Director of the Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki’s talked with CBC Metro Morning about the ins and outs of HWY 407

CBC News

NOV 2024

Fines bumped from $90 to $450, and $120 to $500 in community safety zones. Director of the Infrastructure Institute, Matti Siemiatycki’s caught up with CBC to speak on what this means for Toronto traffic.