Ontario Construction News staff writer
Construction is moving ahead on a new year-round public space beside Richmond Hill’s Central Library, with the City breaking ground on Dave Barrow Civic Square.
Richmond Hill Council marked the milestone at the southwest corner of Yonge Street and Major Mackenzie Drive West, where the new destination park will be built.
The park was designed by JRS and is intended to create a signature public space where residents can gather for community events, celebrations and everyday activities throughout the year.
The square will also serve as a gateway to Richmond Hill’s historic Village area. Plans for the park include the Richmond Hill Bowl and Bowl Stage, an outdoor amphitheatre and permanent stage for concerts, movies and community performances.
The park will also include a seasonal skating rink that will be converted into an events lawn during the spring, summer and fall, along with an events plaza and terrace for gatherings and activities.
Natural areas will form another major component of the project. The park will include woodlands, a pollinator meadow, a natural grass meadow and a marsh, connected by a network of new trails. A teaching garden will provide space for outdoor learning.
The design also incorporates existing elements commemorating Barrow, including a memorial bench and his sandblasted quote, “It’s all about community.”
“Dave Barrow Civic Square will be a place where our community comes together, where neighbours become friends and where pride in Richmond Hill comes to life,” Mayor David West said.
“This is already one of our busiest corners, next to our Central Library, and soon it will be a true gathering place for residents to celebrate and connect in every season. I can’t think of a more fitting way to honour Dave Barrow and the words most closely associated with his decades of service: ‘It’s all about community.’”
Barrow served Richmond Hill for more than 30 years, including as mayor from 2006 to 2021.
The civic square was first dedicated in September 2022. The park plan was developed with community input and approved by Richmond Hill Council on March 26, 2025.
Construction is expected to take place from summer 2026 through the end of 2027.
Once complete, Dave Barrow Civic Square will become Richmond Hill’s sixth destination park and a major public gathering space, combining event infrastructure, recreation amenities and natural areas in the heart of the community.
More information about the project is available through the City of Richmond Hill’s Parks Projects program at RichmondHill.ca/ParksProjects.
