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
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.