Amanda Yeung Collucci — Candidate for Markham Regional Councillor
1. Active Transportation Master Plan
I have supported active transportation throughout my 12 years on Council. Reducing the number of cars on our roads requires giving people practical alternatives. I support moving the plan forward, with priority given to safe, connected routes through trails, alternative pathways and quieter streets wherever practical. That does not mean putting bike lanes on every road. I would work with City and regional staff to identify the most useful connections, establish priorities and bring projects forward through the budget process.
2. Expanding Markham’s Cycling Network
Yes. I support expanding our cycling network thoughtfully. My priority would be routes that connect neighbourhoods with schools, parks, transit and community facilities. I would look first at alternative pathways, trails and quieter streets where we can provide safe connections without adding pressure to busy roads. Protected lanes may be appropriate in some locations, but each proposal should be considered on its merits. Safety, usefulness, cost and effects on traffic and bus service would guide my decisions.
3. Safe and Connected Cycling Routes
We need to look at the whole journey. A comfortable pathway is not enough if someone has to cross a dangerous intersection to reach it. I would focus on missing connections between existing trails, neighbourhood routes and everyday destinations. Safe crossings over regional roads are especially important. I would work with residents and transportation staff to identify these gaps and prioritize improvements. The aim is to give people a route they can realistically use from home to their destination.
4. Protected Cycling Infrastructure on Major Roads
I would support protected cycling infrastructure on major roads where it is needed and the design works. My first preference is to explore alternative pathways or parallel routes that offer a safe, convenient connection. Where a major-road connection is necessary, I would consider it carefully, including any proposal to reallocate road space. We need to understand the effects on safety, traffic, buses and emergency access. There is no single design that suits every road. Decisions should reflect the conditions of each location.
5. Road Safety and Vision Zero
I support the goal of preventing deaths and serious injuries on our roads. During my time on Council, I have championed speed display boards and flexible school-zone signs. I would continue supporting safer crossings, traffic calming, appropriate speed reductions and better visibility at intersections. Walking and cycling routes should reduce exposure to fast-moving traffic wherever possible. I would also support enforcement measures that are legally available and effective. We should pay particular attention to school zones and locations where residents repeatedly raise safety concerns.
6. Cycling Infrastructure in New Developments and Road Projects
Yes. New developments should include safe walking and cycling connections from the beginning. Planning early gives us more opportunities to create separate pathways and direct connections to parks, schools and transit. I would support clear requirements so these routes are included in the initial project and connect beyond the development itself. For road reconstruction, I would ask staff to assess the best option for that location, including nearby alternative routes. We should plan the network carefully before construction starts.
7. Maintenance and Year-Round Accessibility
A pathway needs to be maintained if we expect people to use it. I support clear service standards for important routes, including snow clearing, pavement repairs, debris removal and vegetation trimming. Routes serving schools, transit and community facilities should receive priority. Lighting, signs and accessibility also need regular attention. I would want maintenance costs considered when new routes are approved. Residents should have a straightforward way to report hazards, and City and regional staff should coordinate wherever their responsibilities meet.
8. Safe Routes to School and Youth Cycling
Children need safe routes, and parents need confidence in those routes. I would work with schools and families to identify dangerous crossings, speeding concerns and missing connections. Wherever possible, I favour pathways and quieter neighbourhood routes that keep children away from busy traffic. Safe crossings are still essential where those routes meet major roads. I support traffic calming, secure bicycle parking and school travel planning. This builds on my work championing speed display boards and flexible school-zone signs.
9. Funding and Implementation
Yes. I support planned funding for active transportation, with clear priorities and attention to ongoing maintenance costs. My approach would be to fund safety improvements and useful connections first. Alternative pathways should be considered alongside road-based options so we choose the route that delivers the best overall value. We should also coordinate construction with other planned work and seek grants where available. My budget experience has taught me that every investment needs a clear purpose, a realistic cost and follow-through.
10. Your Commitment to Active Transportation
My three commitments are:
- In the first year, ask City and regional staff to identify priority missing links, including opportunities to use alternative pathways and quieter streets.
- Support annual budget investments in safer crossings and practical connections to schools, transit and community facilities.
- Request a yearly public update on completed projects, costs, maintenance and remaining gaps.
Residents can assess my work through the proposals I bring forward, my budget votes and the improvements delivered. I will continue the practical approach I have taken throughout my 12 years on Council.
ELECT Amanda Yeung COLLUCCI
REGIONAL COUNCILLOR
Our Home | Our Future