Ontario Construction News staff writer
VAUGHAN – The City of Vaughan’s complete streets guide has won a national award from the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects, recognizing the new approach to large-scale street planning and design.
The guide received an Award of Excellence in the Planning and Analysis, Large Scale Design category, presented during Vaughan council’s committee of the whole meeting on Dec. 2.
The guide sets standards for designing, building and maintaining streets intended to accommodate all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders and motorists. The document is used to guide street projects across Vaughan and is aimed at balancing mobility, safety and livability.
“Through the guide, this talented team of professionals plan, design, operate and maintain Vaughan’s street network to ensure it is safe and enjoyable for all road users, year-round,” said Zoran Postic, city manager. “I want to congratulate everyone who worked and continues to work on this guide. You are helping residents get around efficiently and safely, and, for that, this award is incredibly well-deserved.”
Developed through research and consultation, the guide integrates transportation planning with land use, environmental sustainability and community well-being. It is intended to provide a consistent approach to street design as Vaughan continues to grow.
The Canadian Society of Landscape Architects Awards of Excellence recognize projects that demonstrate environmental, social and economic sustainability in landscape architecture and related fields.
Vaughan’s policies align with the active transportation plan and green sustainability strategy focused on people-focused growth and long-term infrastructure planning.
“The Vaughan Complete Streets Guide represents a collaborative effort across departments, partners and the community to reimagine how we design and use our streets,” said Vince Musacchio, Deputy City Manager, Planning and Infrastructure Development. “Receiving this national award reinforces Vaughan’s leadership in advancing innovative, inclusive and sustainable urban planning. It’s a testament to the shared vision and dedication of our staff in shaping a connected and resilient city.”
