York Region continues to support the pedestrian cycling and municipal streetscape partnership programs to improve transportation choices across its nine communities, including the promotion of sustainable transportation such as walking and cycling.
The cost-sharing partnership programs build infrastructure for active living and community enhancements, according to a regional news release. York Region annually allocates up to $500,000 for the pedestrian cycling program and up to $1 million for the streetscape program.
“Cost-sharing programs like these make it easier for people to walk and bike for fun or as part of their commute,” said Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas, chair of the region’s public works transportation services. “In addition to providing more opportunities to be active, these initiatives also reduce the need for single-occupant vehicles.”
Pedestrian cycling program projects funded in 2022/2023 include:
- Adding a multi-use path on Woodbine Avenue from Glenwoods Drive to the new Multi-Use Recreational Complex in Georgina;
- Improving the multi-use path intersection at Markham Road (16th Avenue and Major Mackenzie Drive) in Markham;
- Building cycle tracks on Major Mackenzie between Jane Street and McNaughton Road in Vaughan;
- Creating a cycle track on New Westminster Drive between Bathurst Street and Clark Avenue in Vaughan.
Streetscape program projects funded in 2023 include:
- Developing parkettes on Bathurst at Shaw Road and Weldrick Road in Richmond Hill;
- Enhancing area around 16th Avenue and Leslie Street in Richmond Hill;
- Improving Major Mackenzie between McNaughton and Keele Street and Major Mackenzie and Station Street in Vaughan.
Since the programs launched in 2006 and 2007, York Region has contributed $8.4 million to support 49 pedestrian cycling projects and $13.3 million to support 41 streetscape program projects.
