WHAT'S GOING ON HERE? Traffic signal upgrades at Markham's Hwy. 7, Albert Street

York Region is replacing, upgrading signals that date back to 1987

Yorkregion.com
December 24, 2019
Simone Joseph

York Region is replacing and upgrading the traffic control signals at the intersection of Highway 7 and Albert Street/Cosburn Road in Markham

COST: The upgrades will cost about $285,000.

CONSTRUCTION: Construction started in November and will be substantially completed by the end of 2019. Permanent line markings and any other outstanding upgrades will be completed in spring 2020, due to the current weather conditions.

CHANGES: To a driver, the traffic signal will appear the same. The changes to meet AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) requirements will affect pedestrians. Under this act, public sector organizations must complete accessibility reports every two years. ‎ The standard push buttons will be replaced with audible pedestrian signals and tactile walking surface indicators will be embedded into the concrete ramps. The contractor and regional staff are working to complete this project by the end of the year. Due to the current weather conditions, final upgrades may be completed in spring 2020.

HISTORY: This signal was installed in 1987 and the existing aging fixtures have caused issues with signal maintenance. York Region is rebuilding the signal to ensure it meets the current standard for AODA compliance.

-- Kenter Zhang, project manager, transportation services for The Region of York.