Richmond Hill makes pitch for university campus

YorkRegion.com
April 10, 2014
By Kim Zarzour

Richmond Hill will be making a bid for the new York Region satellite campus for York University and Seneca College.

At a meeting Monday night, town council directed staff to make a presentation next week to the university’s expansion steering committee.

The Town of Richmond Hill, with one of Canada’s most highly educated communities, is a natural choice, according to Mayor Dave Barrow.

The municipality is touting its central location in the heart of the GTA, international recognition as a smart place to do business and numerous corporate headquarters, including some notable science and technology businesses.

As well, the planned extension of the Yonge Street subway north to Richmond Hill and further expansion of rapid transit bodes well for students looking for transportation options.

In addition to a balance between urban amenities and access to greenspace, the town offers a community of welcoming, engaged and culturally diverse citizens, Mr. Barrow said.

“One of the things that makes our community so special is the people.”

Gwen Manderson, director of strategic initiatives, said the town stands an excellent chance.

The town’s official plan and economic development strategy support the establishment of a major institutional use such as a university, Ms Manderson said.

“We’ve had this on our radar and have been working towards it for a while now,” she said.

A post-secondary school in the municipality isn’t just a bonus for parents of university-aged children, she said, but also brings opportunities for new ideas and innovation and connections with businesses.

“Having a university campus within our borders will not only stimulate growth and economic development, but also allows us to be an incubator for innovation, inspiring new ideas and energy within the community,” Mr. Barrow said.

The town will be facing stiff competition for the coveted institution, with most municipalities except Whitchurch-Stouffville and Georgina planning a pitch to the evaluation committee on April 17.

The university is expected to announce its preferred partner municipality in May and in September, university proposals are due to the province for final review, selection and approval.