Retrofitting Markville: Transit-Induced Intensification in Markham, Ontario

Abstract

In recent years, planning practice in North America has promoted sprawl repair to achieve more sustainable development in the suburbs, long seen as car-dependent because of their low densities and dispersed land uses, which make destinations less accessible on foot and limit mobility for residents without cars. Low-rise, single-use districts have been transformed into denser, mixed-use town centres in the hopes of encouraging greater transit use and ensuring that daily needs are within walking distance. In this research, I draw on the local knowledge and professional expertise of interested parties, including planners, councillors, real estate developers, and residents, to understand how they perceive that high-density redevelopment proposals may impact travel behaviour and livability in the Markville community in Markham, Ontario. Through interviews, observations of Council meetings, and analysis of letters to the City Council, I found mixed perspectives on the redevelopment plans. While the planners believe that intensifying near the existing commuter rail station and the planned bus rapid transit corridor will contribute to a more livable community with daily needs within walking distance, the city councillors and residents are less convinced. Residents, especially those who are older or retired, generally regard these plans as exacerbating traffic congestion, since transit is not an alternative to driving for many people. Additionally, community members also raised concerns about the limited capacity of neighbourhood amenities, including schools and parks. Despite the supportive policy context for suburban intensification, many residents believe that there have been few concrete, proactive measures to mitigate these potential impacts.