Jennifer McLaughlin, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Getting to and from the Cornell community is now even easier.
“The terminal is a real benefit given its close proximity to Markham Stouffville Hospital (MSH) and the Cornell Community Centre,” said Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti of the Cornell Bus Terminal which opens Sept. 4.
The new terminal enables transit access to York Region’s rapid transit network, including 34 kilometres of completed bus routes that connect Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, and Newmarket.
Located immediately south of MSH, the new facility has 11 bus bays, weather-protected and heated waiting areas, washrooms, bike racks, and space for future retail.
The new terminal “will further enhance the safe, accessible transit connections available for those who live, work, and travel in and across York Region,” said Wayne Emmerson, York Region Chairman and CEO.
In keeping with the transit-oriented development goal in the Cornell Centre community, no parking is available; however, the terminal is accessible by transit, walking, cycling, or automobile passenger drop-off.
Installation of pedestrian crosswalks at the terminal’s north end are scheduled for completion by fall 2022.
Bike lanes on the north and south sides of Rustle Woods Avenue, immediately north of the terminal, are planned for convenient bike access. Pavement markings, signage, and new street lighting to enhance safety will also be completed by fall 2022.
Room for 12 cars in the drop-off area along the east side of the bus terminal facilitates quick and easy pick-up and drop-off of passengers.
“As our communities continue to grow, we must advance additional rapid transit projects with the support of senior levels of government,” added Scarpitti.
The total cost of the terminal is $50.8 million. The federal government contributed $10.4 million, the provincial government contributed $18.6 million, and York Region contributed $21.8 million.
Visit yrt.ca for information or call 1-866-668-3978.
Photo: Rending of new Cornell Bus Terminal looking south from MSH. Pedestrian crosswalks and a pick-up and drop-off loop are among the features that enhance the terminal’s accessibility (Image supplied by vivaNext/York Region Rapid Transit Corporation.)
