Steeles Avenue East to undergo major transformation

By David Yin, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

York Region and the City of Toronto are moving ahead with a major redevelopment of Steeles Avenue East, with construction set to begin in late 2027 on the stretch between Ninth Line and Tapscott Road.

The two municipalities will share the cost of the project, with York Region responsible for improvements near Ninth Line and Toronto for work further east near Tapscott Road.

Both municipalities will widen a 1.5 km section of Steeles Avenue East from two to six lanes, while also adding sidewalks, cycling infrastructure, and two bridge crossings over Rouge River and Morningside River. This project will span from Tapscott Road to Ninth Line.

York Region will also widen Ninth Line from two to four lanes from north of Steeles Avenue East to Fieldside Street. It will install stormwater features and street lights, along with a new trail.

Kate Lear, communications advisor at the City of Toronto, said that construction on Steeles Avenue East will start in late 2027 and may take years to complete.

Doug MacKay, engineering manager at York Region, said that construction on Ninth Line should occur from spring 2026 to late 2027.

MacKay said that York Region will minimize disruptions on Ninth Line by keeping both lanes open during peak times, ensuring access to entrances and driveways, adjusting traffic signals, and keeping residents informed online.

Both Lear and MacKay said that these redevelopments will provide better options for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users.

“This project is identified in York Region’s 10-Year Roads and Transit Capital Construction Program, prioritizing improvements that enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists, maintain roads in good repair and increase capacity to support population growth,” said MacKay.

Visit www.york.ca/transportation/roads/road-construction-schedule for more information.

Photo: Steeles Avenue East to undergo significant transformation.