Richmond Hill – Majid Jowhari, MP for Richmond Hill, and His Worship David West, Mayor of the City of Richmond Hill, announced a combined investment of $6.1 million to support the construction of a new pathway and footbridge in the Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory (RHDDO) park.
The new bridge will span 50 metres, connecting pedestrians and cyclists to the RHDDO park year-round over the CN railway. From the east end of the bridge, a new multi-use asphalt path will provide a key east-west connection through the park and link to various planned park facilities. A new 680-meters long, multi-use asphalt trail will be the main east-west connection through the RHDDO Park, linking to various planned park facilities. The project will include new wayfinding signage, landscaping and lighting to support safe, enjoyable and accessible use of the trail, bridge and entry plaza.
RHDDO park is an important nexus in the community, providing pedestrian and cyclist routes that connect to the city’s greenway system, Yonge Street and Carville Road/16th Avenue key development area, and various public transportation routes. The bridge, trail and supporting assets will improve active transportation connectivity and enhance accessibility within the community.
Funding announced today contributes to Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy by supporting activities that will help expand networks of pathways, bike lanes, trails and pedestrian bridges. By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.
“Enhancing the interconnected network of paths and trails in RHDDO park contributes to a safer and more accessible community. This funding stands as a pivotal cornerstone within Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy, which aims to promote healthy lifestyles, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and greater engagement with public outdoor spaces. I am exhilarated to witness a truly transformative collaboration between our government and the municipality of Richmond Hill, resulting in a historic investment of $6.1 million for the new pathway at Richmond Hill’s David Dunlop Observatory Park.” – Majid Jowhari, Member of Parliament for Richmond Hill, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities