1. Active Transportation Master Plan
Yes. I support implementing Markham’s Active Transportation Master Plan through a practical, phased approach. In my first year, I would request an update on completed projects, outstanding priorities, funding gaps and delivery timelines. I would support an annual public progress report and a funded project schedule, prioritizing safety improvements and connections that make the existing network more useful. I would also work with residents, City staff and York Region to address routes that cross municipal and Regional responsibilities.
2. Expanding Markham’s Cycling Network
Yes. I support expanding the network using facilities appropriate to each location, including protected lanes, separated cycle tracks, multi-use paths and neighbourhood bikeways. My priorities would be closing gaps, addressing dangerous crossings and connecting schools, transit, community centres and shopping areas. Projects should be assessed for safety, usefulness, accessibility, cost and their contribution to a connected network. I would favour routes that serve everyday trips as well as recreation, and coordinate construction with planned roadwork wherever possible.
3. Safe and Connected Cycling Routes
I would request a review of missing links and difficult crossings in Ward 3, particularly connections between South Unionville, Downtown Markham, schools, community facilities and Unionville GO. I would seek residents’ input alongside collision, speed and traffic data. My priority would be continuous routes with safe crossings at major roads, rather than isolated sections that leave cyclists unprotected at intersections. I would work with York Region on Regional road crossings and advocate for clear signage, accessible connections and secure bicycle parking at key destinations.
4. Protected Cycling Infrastructure on Major Roads
Yes, on appropriate roads, including reallocating road space where evidence supports it. I would assess safety benefits, network connectivity, transit operations, emergency access, traffic flow and impacts on surrounding streets. I would also consider boulevard cycle tracks and other separated designs where feasible. Many Markham residents will continue to drive, so projects need thoughtful design and consultation. My approach would be to choose designs that improve safety and transportation options, then monitor their performance and address problems.
5. Road Safety and Vision Zero
I support the goal of eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries. I would prioritize safer intersections, protected crossings, shorter crossing distances, better lighting and visibility, and traffic calming around schools and residential streets. I support lower speeds where appropriate, keeping parking back from intersections to improve sightlines, and automated enforcement where legally authorized. I would request that projects be prioritized using collision history, vehicle speeds and risks to vulnerable road users, with public reporting on results. Education and enforcement should complement safer street design.
6. Cycling Infrastructure in New Developments and Road Projects
Yes. Walking and cycling infrastructure should be considered from the beginning of development and road design. I would support policies requiring connected sidewalks, appropriate cycling facilities, safe crossings and bicycle parking, using the planning tools available to the City. Reviews should examine how a project connects to surrounding neighbourhoods and destinations, not simply what is built within its boundaries. I would press for clear construction responsibilities and timelines so essential connections are delivered with the development rather than left for a future retrofit.
7. Maintenance and Year-Round Accessibility
Yes. I support clear, funded maintenance standards for important walking and cycling routes. These should cover snow and ice, pavement repairs, debris, vegetation, lighting and signage. I would request a maintenance review to identify priority routes and gaps between City and Regional responsibilities. Winter service should focus on continuous connections to schools, transit and community destinations, with accessible sidewalks remaining a priority. Residents should have a straightforward reporting process, and recurring problems should be tracked to ensure they are resolved.
8. Safe Routes to School and Youth Cycling
Yes. My years on parent council have shown me the importance of involving families and school staff in practical improvements. I would support school travel planning, walking and cycling route assessments, safer crossings, traffic calming, secure bicycle parking and protected connections where appropriate. I would also work with schools on arrival and dismissal congestion, including unsafe parking and blocked sightlines. In my first year, I would seek a prioritized list of Ward 3 school safety improvements, developed with students, parents, school boards and transportation staff.
9. Funding and Implementation
Yes. I support dedicated, predictable funding through a multi-year capital program, including maintenance costs. Active transportation should receive meaningful priority alongside transit, road safety and road maintenance. Projects should be selected through clear criteria, including safety, connectivity, accessibility and value for money. I would pursue available external funding and opportunities to combine improvements with scheduled road reconstruction. Annual reporting should show what was funded, what was delivered and why any projects were delayed, allowing residents to assess progress.
10. Your Commitment to Active Transportation
My three commitments are:
- In my first year, request a public Ward 3 assessment of network gaps, dangerous crossings and school access, with a prioritized action list.
- During annual budgets, advocate for a funded, phased program that connects neighbourhoods to schools, transit and community destinations.
- Seek annual public reporting on project delivery, spending, maintenance performance and safety outcomes.
These are actions residents can use to assess my advocacy and follow-through. Delivering projects will require Council support, staff expertise and coordination with York Region.
Thank you for helping residents understand candidates’ transportation priorities.