Have your say! Richmond Hill residents invited to share ideas for city’s future

“The City of Richmond Hill is at the cusp of a unique period of urban opportunity.”

Yorkregion.com
Feb. 16, 2021
Sheila Wang

The future of Richmond Hill is in the hands of its people.

The city is inviting residents to help draw a new blueprint -- City Plan 2041 -- for the expected growth and development of Richmond Hill in the next two decades.

A virtual open house is scheduled for Feb. 18 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for the public to learn and ask questions about the proposed updates on the official plan, which is considered one of the most important documents in the city.

David Dixon, a sought-after expert in urban planning and design, will speak at the open house about the potential and balancing growth and green in Richmond Hill.

As an adviser in the city’s official plan update process, Dixon will be providing his expertise and insights to the official plan update committee, staff and the public.

“The City of Richmond Hill is at the cusp of a unique period of urban opportunity,” Dixon said. “With the advantage of its location within the GTA and as a hub for transit connections, Richmond Hill is poised for growth and has strong potential to improve livability and walkability, encourage sustainable development and attract investment.”

The city’s current official plan was adopted in 2010 -- and arguably outdated -- as a large number of development applications have requests for amendments to the plan in order to get the proposed developments approved.

The amendments have been mostly centred on the height, density and parking standards.

The updated plan, once complete, will not only lay the groundwork but also set the tone for the growth and development of the Richmond Hill community in the next 20 years, including changes to policies and land-use planning maps.

It is also required to conform to York Region’s Official Plan, which is currently being updated through its municipal comprehensive review process.

Residents will need to register online to participate in the open house.

The virtual event is one of a variety of ways in which the public can share their thoughts on the proposed vision for the city beginning this month and throughout the year.

The public can submit their comments to OPUpdate@richmondhill.ca, or call at 905-771-8910.

They can also subscribe for the dedicated page for the official plan update to receive email updates on future opportunities to take part in consultation events and surveys.

The community is welcome to provide input on a variety of topics, and help transform the city in all aspects including housing, climate change, transportation, employment and beyond.