Newmarket moves ahead with plans to increase downtown parking
In recognition of the success of downtown Newmarket as a Regional tourism destination, Council has approved plans to move forward with the addition of a modular parking structure at the north end of Riverwalk Commons.
As municipality of the year for special events and with an eclectic mix of locally-owned shops, restaurants, cafes and more, Newmarket has become a top dining, shopping and entertainment destination in York Region. The addition of a modular parking structure with over 200 additional parking spaces will help alleviate current parking demands and accommodate more visitors to the vibrant Main Street area.
The Town is moving quickly to issue requests for proposals for the pre-construction and construction of the parking structure, which will be located at the north end of Riverwalk Commons where the Keith Davis Tennis facility is currently located. It is anticipated that preliminary pre-construction will begin in late spring with the modular parking structure being in place by late 2024/early 2025. Tennis programming will move to a new state-of-the-art tennis facility that is being built as part of the Shining Hill development.
Recognizing the even higher demand for parking going into the bustling summer months and with the opening of the Postmark Hotel, York Region's first boutique hotel, the Town will be looking at various ways to further alleviate parking pressures in the downtown throughout the 2024 construction. A muti-faceted approach for temporary parking solutions will be coming forward to Council in May.
Read the Staff Report to learn more about the Town's plans for increased parking.
Council approves new pedestrian crossover at Gorham/Muriel
Town Council's ongoing commitment to street safety has led to the addition of a new Pedestrian Crossover Policy to the Town's existing Transportation Management Policy. Additionally, a new pedestrian crossover will be installed at Gorham Street and Muriel Street.
The Town's Transportation Services department received formal requests to review two locations for new pedestrian crossovers. After reviewing the proposed locations, Gorham Street and Muriel Street meets the eligibility criteria (including traffic volume, road width, etc.) to warrant a crossing. The "Type B" pedestrian crossing will include signage, flashing beacons and pavement markings.
A pedestrian crossover is a type of crossing where drivers and cyclists are required to stop for pedestrians intending to cross the street, and the crossing is marked with signage and pavement markings. Drivers and cyclists must allow pedestrians to cross the full width of the street before proceeding.
To learn more, read the Staff Report.
Southlake Foundation encourages the community to join this year's Run for Southlake
The Southlake Foundation shared information on the Nature's Emporium Run for Southlake. Happening Sunday, April 28, this 5-kilometre run/walk event is fundraising in support of Southlake Regional Health Centre.
Funds raised through participant/team pledges help to support the most urgent needs for patient care and helps put the right tools in the hands of clinical experts. Fundraising also supports new/renovated spaces in the hospital to deliver exceptional care.
Each year, the Community Spirit Award is given to the municipality that has two thirds of council registered and the largest participant base per capita – which was awarded to the Town of Newmarket in 2023 and 2022!
To learn more, see the presentation and to sign up, visit runforsouthlake.ca.
Council encourages the community to share their input on topics and reminds residents that there are four ways to join the discussion (phone, email, in person, virtual). Learn more about how to join the discussion.