The Cedars Under Construction at 253 Markham Rd in Scarborough

The Cedars, a 783-unit residential development, is under construction at 253 Markham Rd in Scarborough. The six-building project ranges from 3 to 21 storeys with a maximum height of 215 feet. Options for Homes is the developer, with RAW Design as architect and O2 Planning & Design on landscape. Construction began October 29, 2025; the first phase is expected to finish in 2028.

The project is Toronto's first major co-operative housing development in nearly three decades. Phase one is a 21-storey co-op rental tower with 245 homes: 49 affordable rental units and 196 rent-controlled units. A $120 million building permit has been issued for that phase. Affordability is secured for 50 years, with rents at 80 to 90 percent of average market rent.

Build Toronto assembled the 6.08-acre site from former Scarborough Expressway lands. The City waived development charges, property taxes, and permit fees. Partnerships with YWCA Toronto and Community Living Toronto allocate 20 percent of co-op units to their clients. Deltera is construction manager.

Site features include a 3,716-square-metre central courtyard and a 1.1-acre public park. Parking totals 638 spaces: 519 resident, 115 visitor, 4 car share.