Update: Sidewalk on Yonge St. between Silver Maple Rd. and Estate Garden Drive
- Jul 30
- 2 min read
Update July 30, 2026
At my request, Mayor West and I met with City staff on May 27 to discuss pedestrian and cycling safety on Yonge Street between Silver Maple Road and Old Colony Road/Estate Garden Drive. Following that meeting, City staff asked York Region to take another look at the corridor to determine whether additional improvements could be made.
The Region has now completed its review, examining road conditions, traffic operations, collision history and possible safety measures. Unfortunately, it found that significant pedestrian infrastructure improvements are not currently feasible due to limited space, drainage and grading requirements, and environmental considerations related to the Oak Ridges Moraine.
While I am disappointed that no new infrastructure solution was identified, I will continue advocating for a safe sidewalk and cycling connection between Silver Maple Road and Old Colony Road/Estate Garden Drive. This connection is vital not only for pedestrian and cyclist safety, but also to better connect Oak Ridges with the rest of Richmond Hill.
York Region has indicated it will continue to monitor conditions and remains open to discussing longer-term opportunities should future funding and partnership arrangements be pursued.
Residents and I continue to raise concerns about the lack of a sidewalk on Yonge Street between Silver Maple Road and Estate Garden Drive / Old Colony Road.
Sidewalks are typically built through new development. However, this stretch is bordered by conservation lands on both sides, meaning no development is planned. As a result, the usual criteria for a permanent sidewalk may never be met.
Meanwhile, people continue to walk here under unsafe conditions. Pedestrians and cyclists are forced onto a narrow shoulder while vehicles travel at speeds of 60+ km/h. I have personally seen parents pushing strollers with traffic passing very close by, and the risk of a serious injury is a real concern.
I have asked staff to look at interim safety measures to better protect pedestrians and cyclists. This includes seasonal options such as bollards or other temporary barriers to help create a safer walking space. Staff are now reviewing what is possible, along with the associated costs. Since Yonge Street is a Regional road, any solution will also require approval from York Region.
I will continue to advocate for improvements and will share updates as they become available.
In the meantime, please take extra care in this area. Drivers, slow down and stay alert. Pedestrians, remain cautious when walking along this stretch.
