Markham and Richmond Hill connections continue to grow
Reduced traffic congestion is on the way after York Region constructs another bridge over Highway 404 between Markham and Richmond Hill, better connecting the two communities and helping to accommodate growth.
The City of Markham, the City of Richmond Hill, and York Region, in cooperation with the Ministry of Transportation, have worked since 2023 to complete the roadway and bridge crossing over Highway 404, connecting Orlando Avenue in Richmond Hill to Markland Street in Markham.
“Infrastructure projects like this may take years of planning, coordination, and construction, but their benefits will be felt by our residents, businesses, and future generations for decades to come,” York Region CEO Eric Jolliffe said. “As our communities continue to grow, so does the need for infrastructure that keeps people, goods, and services moving safely and efficiently through the region. This project is an important example of our continued commitment to building for the future.
“This new connection between Woodbine Avenue in Markham and Leslie Street in Richmond Hill provides additional capacity within our transportation network. By introducing an additional east-west connection across the 404, the crossing will help reduce pressure on existing roads while improving travel options for residents and businesses.”
This partnership investment includes $65 million from the City of Markham, $28 million from the City of Richmond Hill and $17 million from York Region.
“The City of Markham proudly invested approximately $65 million in this crossing because great cities are built on great connections,” Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti said. “Projects like this are far more than just asphalt and concrete. Every minute we save, we give back to the commuter, for them to decide how they want to spend their time. Every connection creates open doors to new economic opportunities, a piece of infrastructure that helps strengthen the foundation for generations to come.”
The project includes the extension of Cachet Woods Court to connect to the newly constructed road crossing, a separate bridge over the Rouge River, and installation of sidewalks and multi-use pathways. Vigorous landscaping has been done in the area, including environmental improvements such as planting thousands of native trees and plants, stabilizing and naturalizing the river, and improving stormwater quality.
The bridge is set to open to commuters on September 4.
Photo (L-R): Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, York Region CEO Eric Jolliffe and Richmond Hill Mayor Dave West celebrate the new road across Highway 404, connecting Orlanda Avenue and Markland Street. (Matthew Fletcher photo)