An erosion-prone stretch of Ajax Waterfront Park is the focus of a shoreline protection project intended to address a public safety hazard and threats to infrastructure, including the Waterfront Trail, according to the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.
The Ajax Shoreline Project covers approximately one kilometre between Lion’s Point and Veteran’s Point. TRCA is working with the Canada Water Agency on an approach that uses cobbles, boulders and wave movement to create a shoreline resembling its historic condition.
The conservation authority describes the area’s high bluffs and sandy, rocky beaches as experiencing visibly rapid erosion. An environmental assessment completed in 2024 identified the stretch as one of two priority areas for erosion work within Ajax Waterfront Park.
For residents who walk or cycle along the waterfront, the project also includes repairs and repaving on part of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail. TRCA’s restoration plans call for a brief trail closure during repaving, with a designated detour for users.
Stone protection shaped by waves
Rather than relying only on stones placed directly on shore, the design calls for material to be installed underwater and along the beach at the water’s edge.
The larger boulders are intended to remain mostly submerged and form a barrier. Waves would gradually carry smaller cobbles onto the shoreline, allowing the beach to take shape through natural movement.
TRCA says the approach is intended to produce a more resilient, natural beach. The environmental assessment identified a cobble-and-boulder shoreline as the best way to address erosion in the project area.
The design draws on shoreline conditions that existed before stonehooking, a practice that removed stones from Lake Ontario’s shores. TRCA also identifies more frequent and intense storms associated with climate change as a factor making the Ajax waterfront vulnerable to hazardous erosion.
Second stage depends on funding
The project is divided into two stages. The first focuses on the shoreline west of the Love Crescent parking lot, extending to the storm drain outfall.
The second would address areas east toward Veteran’s Point Gardens and west of the outfall toward Lion’s Point. TRCA says that work depends on future funding opportunities.
Following the 2024 environmental assessment, the authority sought funding through the Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative for the nature-based shoreline protection approach.
Site restoration plans include native plantings, invasive plant removal and grass restoration in areas affected by construction. Shoreline work is also to be included in TRCA’s ongoing erosion monitoring program.
Ajax Waterfront Park has served as a natural buffer between Lake Ontario and nearby development for more than 60 years. Formerly agricultural land, it now provides public space with trails, playgrounds and gardens, and includes the Ajax Water Supply Plant.
