Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Town of Aurora has approved awarding the tender for a long-awaited infrastructure project along Yonge Street, aimed at improving safety and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists in the community’s growing south end.
Council signed off on the project, which will run from the railway overpass south to Bloomington Sideroad, and approved an updated budget of $7.9 million—approximately $2.5 million higher than the original estimate.
The project will see construction of a multi-use path (MUP) on the west side of Yonge Street and a sidewalk on the east side, addressing a long-standing gap in active transportation infrastructure in the area.
“With growth in the south end, we’re seeing more families, more seniors, and more residents trying to get around safely,” said Mayor Tom Mrakas. “Right now, that’s not always possible—and that’s not acceptable.
“So we’re fixing it.”
Currently, there are no dedicated active transportation facilities along Yonge Street between Bloomington Road and Industrial Parkway South, forcing pedestrians and cyclists to share the roadway with vehicles to access nearby services and amenities.
Town officials say the project will improve safety, walkability, and connectivity, linking residents to local trails, parks, and businesses while supporting increased use of active transportation options.
The initiative aligns with recommendations outlined in the Town’s 2024 Active Transportation Master Plan. A consultant retained by the municipality determined that a multi-use path on the west side and a sidewalk on the east side represent the preferred design for the corridor.
Funding for the project will come from multiple sources, including up to $2.8 million from Regional Municipality of York through its Pedestrian and Cycling Program. The program supports eligible costs for municipally initiated multi-use path projects.
An additional $4.5 million will be funded through development charges collected from new home construction.
“There’s been a lot of discussion about development charges lately—this is exactly why they matter,” Mrakas said. “Without those DCs, that $4.5 million would fall directly onto existing taxpayers.
“That’s not fair and it’s not how responsible municipalities operate.”
Once complete, the project is expected to significantly improve conditions for all road users along this stretch of Yonge Street, particularly as residential growth continues in Aurora’s south end.
