YZD celebrates the rich history of the former Downsview Airport lands while embracing the exciting transformation ahead. The name, inspired by the site’s original call sign, honours its aviation legacy – something that local residents and stakeholders told us was important to them – and it reflects our vision for what’s to come. YZD connects to the past and points to the future, marking the start of a new chapter for this iconic site.

Northcrest Developments envisions transforming the 370-acre former Downsview Airport lands into YZD—a series of vibrant, sustainable neighbourhoods that will evolve over the next 30 years. Each district - or neighbourhood - will offer a diverse mix of housing, employment opportunities, and community spaces, designed to meet the needs of current and future generations. This ambitious journey is deeply rooted in collaboration, incorporating the priorities of thousands of residents, businesses, and stakeholders to shape every phase of development. As YZD unfolds, it aims to set a new benchmark for inclusive, sustainable urban living, creating a lasting legacy for Toronto and its people.

YZD will be home to more than 54,000 residents and provide 23,000 jobs, creating a vibrant new hub for housing and economic opportunity. Our goal is to build complete neighbourhoods that offer a range of affordable housing options while attracting businesses and meaningful jobs to the area. By combining diverse housing with robust employment opportunities, YZD will address both the housing and economic needs - supporting the community and the city for generations to come. 

The YZD project is designed to create complete, connected neighbourhoods that enhance quality of life. Beyond providing new homes and jobs, YZD will bring essential community infrastructure like schools, community centres, childcare facilities, and cultural spaces close to where people live. With sustainability at its core, YZD will weave together city and nature through ~74 acres (30 hectares) of inter-connected parks and open spaces, connecting to adjacent Downsview Park via an iconic pedestrian-focused bridge. With multiple links to existing transit stations, YZD will become a new northern hub for work, play and culture, spurring economic growth and opportunity in the surrounding area. The project offers benefits that will support both the local community and the broader city for generations to come.  

At Northcrest, we are committed to helping address Toronto’s housing supply and affordability crisis. YZD will include rental and ownership options, geared towards all who call Toronto home, from students, to families and seniors. We are working closely with the City of Toronto to ensure affordable housing is a part of the neighbourhoods we plan, helping to build a diverse and inclusive community. We aim to meet and where possible exceed City requirements. Our first district, the Hangar District, will include affordable rental units, as defined by the City, to support essential workers like teachers, nurses, and firefighters.