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Ritch Lau – Ward 2 incumbent

October 9, 2026 by markhamcycles78b68aba38

1. Active Transportation Master Plan

Will you commit to supporting the implementation of Markham’s Active Transportation Master Plan?

Yes. As a member of Markham’s Cycling and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (CPAC), I have actively participated in discussions on improving active transportation across our city.

During my first term, I voted in favour of multiple initiatives supporting dedicated cycling infrastructure and multi-use pathways, including the Victoria Square Boulevard reconstruction and Elgin Mills widening projects.

I will continue supporting the Master Plan through responsible capital investments, prioritizing projects that improve safety, connect existing routes, and provide practical transportation alternatives for residents.

2. Expanding Markham’s Cycling Network

Will you support continued expansion of cycling infrastructure, and what would you prioritize?

Yes. I have consistently supported expanding Markham’s cycling network, including protected bike lanes and multi-use pathways.

As Ward 2 Councillor, I supported incorporating protected cycling infrastructure into the designs of Victoria Square Boulevard reconstruction and Elgin Mills widening.

My priorities are safety, connectivity, community needs, and responsible use of public funds. I believe cycling infrastructure should be planned as part of an integrated transportation network, with careful consideration of traffic flow, accessibility, and the needs of all road users.

3. Safe and Connected Cycling Routes

What would you do to improve connectivity between neighbourhoods and major destinations?

Connectivity is essential. Building isolated cycling facilities without connecting them to existing routes limits their usefulness.

During my first term, I worked closely with residents and City staff to finalize the design of the Montgomery Trail project in Ward 2, connecting existing cycling routes and parks to create more opportunities for walking and cycling.

I will continue prioritizing missing links between neighbourhoods, schools, parks, community centres, and commercial areas, while working with York Region where connections involve regional roads.

4. Protected Cycling Infrastructure on Major Roads

Would you support protected cycling infrastructure, including reallocating existing road space?

Yes, where appropriate and supported by proper planning and engineering assessments.

My voting record demonstrates my support for protected cycling infrastructure, including the Victoria Square Boulevard reconstruction and Elgin Mills widening projects.

However, every road has different conditions and demands. Reallocating existing road space should involve careful consideration of safety, traffic capacity, public transit, emergency access, and community feedback.

I support a balanced approach that improves safety for cyclists and pedestrians while maintaining an efficient transportation network for everyone.

5. Road Safety and Vision Zero

What measures would you support to reduce serious injuries and fatalities?

Road safety has been a priority throughout my first term.

After hearing concerns from local parents, I worked directly with York Region Transportation to secure additional speed radars, traffic calming measures, and a lower speed limit along Woodbine Bypass near Nokiida Public School.

During Markham’s Vision Zero workshops, I also advocated for considering roundabouts as alternatives to traditional all-way stops at suitable local intersections.

I will continue supporting evidence-based traffic calming, safer crossings, appropriate speed limits, and intersection improvements, particularly near schools and residential neighbourhoods.

6. Cycling Infrastructure in New Developments and Road Projects

Will you support making walking and cycling infrastructure a standard component of new developments and major road projects?

Yes. Walking and cycling infrastructure should be considered during the initial planning and design stages, rather than added as an afterthought.

The Victoria Square Boulevard reconstruction project, Markham’s largest capital investment in 2025, is an example of this approach. I worked with Council colleagues to secure support for this major project, including protected cycling infrastructure in its design.

I support integrating appropriate sidewalks, cycling facilities, and multi-use pathways into new developments and major road projects from the outset, subject to sound engineering, accessibility standards, and responsible budgeting.

7. Maintenance and Year-Round Accessibility

How would you improve maintenance of cycling and active transportation infrastructure?

Building cycling and pedestrian infrastructure is important, but keeping it safe and accessible year-round is equally essential.

In April 2025, I seconded a motion endorsing CPAC’s recommendation to study expanding winter maintenance of selected park pathways, particularly those connecting schools, community centres, transit, and neighbourhoods.

I support establishing practical maintenance standards covering snow clearing, pavement conditions, debris removal, vegetation, and signage.

Moving forward, I will continue advocating for improved year-round accessibility, prioritizing frequently used routes while considering operational feasibility and responsible use of taxpayers’ money.

8. Safe Routes to School and Youth Cycling

What would you do to make walking and cycling to school safer?

As a father of two young children, I understand how important safe routes to school are for families.

During my first term, I worked with parents and York Region Transportation to successfully request additional speed radars, traffic calming measures, and a reduced speed limit along Woodbine Bypass near Nokiida Public School.

I will continue advocating for safer school crossings, appropriate speed limits, improved pedestrian connections, and traffic calming measures around schools.

I also support working with school boards, parents, and transportation staff to identify and address specific safety concerns.

9. Funding and Implementation

Would you support dedicated and predictable funding for active transportation?

Yes. Active transportation deserves a consistent place in Markham’s long-term infrastructure planning and capital budgeting.

I am proud to have worked with my Council colleagues to secure support for the Victoria Square Boulevard reconstruction project, Markham’s largest capital investment in 2025, which incorporates protected cycling infrastructure.

I support allocating funding through the City’s capital planning process, prioritizing projects that improve safety, complete missing connections, and deliver measurable community benefits.

At the same time, investments must be balanced against other municipal infrastructure needs and our responsibility to taxpayers.

10. Your Commitment to Active Transportation

What are the three most important actions you would commit to during your next term?

My three priorities for 2026–2030 are:

  1. Improve connectivity: Advance projects that close gaps between existing cycling routes, trails, parks, schools, and neighbourhoods, including continued progress on Montgomery Trail.
  2. Strengthen road safety: Work with City staff, York Region, and local communities to identify and implement practical traffic calming and safer crossings, particularly near schools.
  3. Integrate active transportation into infrastructure planning: Continue supporting appropriate protected cycling facilities and multi-use pathways in major road projects, with transparent budgeting and regular progress updates.

My focus is on practical improvements that residents can see and use.

Filed Under: 2026 Municipal Elections

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