1. Executive Commitment & Core Vision
As Markham grows, our transportation network must offer safe, practical, and efficient options for everyone—whether you drive, ride transit, walk, or cycle. Active transportation is essential for reducing traffic congestion, reaching climate goals, supporting local businesses, and building healthy, connected communities.
My administration will fully support and accelerate the implementation of Markham’s Active Transportation Master Plan (ATMP). We will treat active transportation infrastructure not as an optional add-on, but as a standard component of every major road rebuild, new development, and transit link.”
2. Strategic Positions by Theme
A. Cycling Infrastructure & Network Expansion
Protected & Physical Separation: Shift from simple painted lines to physically separated cycle tracks, protected bike lanes, and multi-use paths on major arterial and collector roads to protect riders of all ages and abilities.
Closing Network Gaps: Prioritize missing links that connect residential neighbourhoods to GO Transit stations, Viva bus lines, local schools, community centres, and commercial hubs like Downtown Markham and Unionville.
Integrated Development Standards: Ensure new residential and commercial developments build high-quality cycling links directly into their site plans from day one.
B. Road Safety & Vision Zero Principles
Safe Intersection Design: Implement protected intersection designs, dedicated signal phases for cyclists/pedestrians, and daylighting at corners to eliminate blind spots.
Traffic Calming near Schools: Expand “Safe Routes to School” programs around Markham elementary and high schools with reduced speed zones, raised crosswalks, and automated speed enforcement.
Speed Management & Street Design: Redesign high-collision corridors using traffic calming and lane narrowing to naturally lower vehicle speeds without impeding flow.
C. Active Transportation & Year-Round Usability
Winter Maintenance & Operations: Priority snow clearing, prompt debris removal, and regular surface repairs on major cycling routes and multi-use paths so active transportation remains viable year-round.
End-of-Trip Amenities: Mandate secure, covered bike parking, e-bike charging stations, and lockers at key transit terminals and civic facilities.
Micromobility & First/Last Mile: Integrate bike-share and e-scooter mobility programs to bridge the gap between home and public transit hubs.
D. The Future of Markham’s Transportation Network
Complete Streets Approach: Move toward a balanced model where roads accommodate all users safely, using data-driven decisions to optimize traffic flow alongside active transit.
Predictable Funding: Support dedicated, reliable capital funding for active transportation projects in municipal budgets.
Regional Connectivity: Work closely with York Region, Metrolinx, and neighbouring municipalities to build seamless cross-boundary cycling connections along major regional corridors.
3. Key Action Items for the Term
1. Accelerate ATMP Priority Projects: Fast-track the top 5–year priority projects in the Active Transportation Master Plan, focusing on major missing links.
2. Launch a Safe School Zones Initiative: Deliver infrastructure upgrades and traffic calming around high-density school areas across all wards.
3. Establish Dedicated Operations Standards: Allocate funding to clear bike lanes and multi-use trails alongside major road plow routes during winter months.