Markham York University campus gets $127M from Ontario government

YorkRegion.com
June 9, 2017
Tim Kelly

More than 30 prospective Markham York University future students were the focus as the province of Ontario announced it is providing $127 million to build York's Markham campus in 2021.

The Grade 8 students from Ashton Meadows Public School in Markham are the prime target to enter the Markham Centre York campus when it opens in four years.

Michael Chan, MPP for Markham-Unionville, made the announcement on behalf of the Liberal government.

"This campus will serve students from across York Region. The Ontario government will contribute $127 million towards building the York University campus here in Markham to provide an option close to home for students and families for higher education. It will serve an estimated 4,000 students in York Region with the potential for more over time," he said.

Mamdouh Shoukri, president and vice-chancellor of York University, paid particular tribute to the young people sitting in front of him.

"All of this was done for you and other young people your age. I would like you to start thinking about this," he said to the Grade 8 students.

York Regional Chair Wayne Emmerson pointed out the region has invested $25 million in the project, and said, "a university campus has been identified as a top economic priority of York Region."

It was a big day for Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, who said the city's contribution to the project was to donate $30 million to $40 million in land in Markham Centre for the campus.

He acknowledged the partnerships, teamwork and journey that took place to get to Friday morning's announcement.

"As much as we thought this was the best location for York University to locate in York Region ... it's an important investment (in land) that the city is making, so that we will finally see the construction of the university in downtown Markham," Scarpitti said.

For Jacquelin Chow, 13, and Vivian To, 14, of Ashton Meadows Public School, going to the yet-to-be built Markham campus of York is enticing.

"Maybe I might want to go," said Jacquelin.

Vivian was a little more sure of herself.

"After hearing all those speeches, I'm pretty convinced I might want to go," she said.