Assembly Park, an 83-acre, multi-building project is moving forward in the downtown core of Vaughan, with an official launch to mark the expected 12-year build-out.

Developed by QuadReal and Menkes, the mixed-use community will bring housing for more than 6,500 residents, new schools, retail, parkland and public spaces that host farmer’s markets, culinary festivals and arts and culture events.

“The creation of Assembly Park will transform the Vaughan we know today, making it not just a suburb of the GTA, but rather a destination in and of itself,” Alan Menkes, president of Menkes High Rise, said at the ribbon-cutting event.

Giannone Petricone Associates and IBI Group will design a pedestrian-first hub of entertainment, shopping and dining options.

Among several residential projects are Mobilio, Festival and Grand Festival, which have already sold. The third phase of Festival (Bravo) is next to launch.

As the project shapes up, temporary community spaces are in place. The Studios is filled with an art and content studio, gallery, and event space. For starters, a 7,000-square-foot mural, FUTURA, by Toronto artist Andre Kan, was unveiled in late 2021. The Gardens is 1.47 acres of green gathering space for communal dining, group yoga, herb, flower and vegetable gardens, gardening classes, picnics and private moments.

“Inspired by Vaughan’s diversity, Assembly Park will bring together people and families of all backgrounds and serve as a focal point for arts and culture within the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre,” said QuadReal Executive Vice -resident Toby Wu.

Photo: Executives from Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital join Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua as they are presented with a cheque from QuadReal Property Group and Menkes Developments Ltd.