Vaughan has largest number of construction projects in York Region
Reason attributes to Vaughan’s ‘continued growth’ and transporation needs, says York Region
Yorkregion.com
Sept. 3, 2019
Dina Al-Shibeeb
Vaughan tops all York Region municipalities in having the most construction projects, says a director.
“York Region has committed to significant investments to the regional transportation network within Vaughan,” said Salim Alibhai, director, Capital Planning and Delivery, York Region Transportation Services.
So far, there are currently 21 regional transportation projects taking place to support regional growth. They include construction projects, road rehabilitation and preservation, structure rehabilitation and intersection improvements, Alibhai said, and will cost $170 million over a number of years.
“In addition, transportation projects have also been initiated by other levels of government such as the extension of Highway 427, expansion of GO rail services, and other local initiatives to help address priority transportation needs in Vaughan,” he added.
Construction to expand and extend Highway 427 through York Region began in May last year and is to be finished by 2021. The highway will be extended 6.6 kilometres from Highway 7 to Major Mackenzie Drive, and widened to 8 lanes from Finch Avenue to Highway 7.
In June, King-Vaughan MPP Stephen Lecce announced construction of six-storey parking structure at Rutherford GO station with over 100 new spots for bicycles.
York Region must undertake a Municipal Comprehensive Review every five years, which allows the region to update its Official Plan.
“The regional Official Plan then triggers a review and update of the region’s Transportation Master Plan, the timing of which is currently 2021.”