The term "Bruce Plan" refers to a specific urban development initiative proposed and implemented by the Toronto-based urban planner, Jane Jacobs, in the 1960s. It is named after Robert F. Bruce, the then-chairman of the Metropolitan Toronto Planning Board, who supported the plan.
The Bruce Plan aimed to tackle the urban renewal challenges faced by Toronto during that period. It advocated for a holistic approach to city planning, emphasizing the preservation of existing neighborhoods rather than demolishing and replacing them.
The plan primarily focused on countering highway construction and promoting a mixture of land uses. It called for a block-by-block urban analysis and proposed the division of neighborhoods into more manageable units for revitalization. The Bruce Plan also advocated for measures to discourage car-dependent urban sprawl, and instead prioritized the creation of walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods that catered to the needs of local residents.
By promoting high-density development in certain areas, limiting the growth of highways, and preserving historic buildings, the Bruce Plan aimed to ensure the social, economic, and cultural vitality of Toronto. Its principles aligned with Jane Jacobs' influential book "The Death and Life of Great American Cities," which critiqued urban renewal strategies and championed community-based neighborhood planning.
Overall, the Bruce Plan represents an alternative approach to urban development that prioritizes community engagement and preservation, aiming to create vibrant, diverse, and sustainable cities.
