Bathurst and Davis intersection opens to traffic in King, Newmarket

A future multi-use trail is planned in 2020

Yorkregion.com
August 21, 2019
Sheila Wang

One of the busiest intersections in central York Region is fully open to traffic after more than a year of construction.

York Region completed the much-awaited improvements to the intersection of Bathurst Street and Davis Drive in King Township and Newmarket on Aug. 9.

Freshly painted lines, on-street bike routes, additional left-turn lanes, the new and improved intersection on Newmarket’s only direct route to Highway 400 is expected to accommodate the anticipated growth and improve traffic flow to and from the area.

Population in both municipalities have experienced considerable growth in the past decade and a majority of their working population travels out of town for work on a daily basis.

The $6.5-million regional project started in June 2018 and was originally scheduled to complete by last fall.

However, construction has been significantly delayed due to an unusually wet fall and early winter weather.

The prolonged road work has led to massive commuting headaches in the area for the past year.

This July, the intersection was named among the top three worst roads in York Region in the #YorkRoadRage series, an initiative launched by yorkregion.com this summer.

Road construction continues to tie up traffic at the intersection of Bathurst Street and Davis Drive in Newmarket. Nov 27 2018. -- Mike Barrett/Metroland

“York Region recognizes construction can be disruptive and we thank all residents, motorists and local businesses for their patience and understanding during the construction period,” said Jamal Ahmed, project manager at York Region’s transportation services.

Traffic was seen going smoothly on Aug. 15 at the heavy-travelled intersection during the morning rush hours.

There are now double left-turn lanes from Davis Drive eastbound to Bathurst Street northbound, double left-turn lanes from Bathurst Street northbound to Davis Drive westbound, as well as a right-turn lane travelling northbound on Bathurst Street.

As part of the transformation, the intersection is expected to provide more travel options for residents and commuters by installing bike lanes, enhancing sidewalks and adding a new transit stop.

A future multi-use trail is planned by Newmarket in 2020, located on the north side of Davis Drive and east side of Bathurst Street to offer cyclists and pedestrians a safe way to explore York Region and the town.

Final landscaping and tree planting will start in spring 2020, according to York Region.

“We’re pleased with the numerous improvements the region made to the intersection of Davis Drive and Bathurst Street. They will make the intersection safer and more efficient for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians,” said Jason Ballantyne, King’s spokesperson.