WHAT’S GOING ON HERE: York Region begins construction on Markland Street and Cachet Woods to connect with Highway 404 crossing
York Region has begun construction work on Orlando Avenue in Richmond Hill and Markland Street and Cachet Woods in Markham and Column as part of the Highway 404 improvement project between 16th Avenue and Major Mackenzie Drive.
Improvements involve widening and extending Markland Street and Orlando Avenue, creating a new road that crosses Highway 404 and the Rouge River.
Crews are setting up work zones, installing barriers, repainting lines, and adjusting traffic lanes. Lane closures and some night work will continue through fall 2024.
The project aims to improve connectivity and support growth, with York Region working alongside the City of Markham, the City of Richmond Hill as well as the Ministry of Transportation Ontario.
Construction began in summer 2023 and should be completed by early 2026.
JUST THE FACTS
Improvements include:
• Widening, extending and connecting Orlando Avenue in the City of Richmond Hill and Markland Street in the City of Markham, providing a new four-lane road over Highway 404 and the Rouge River
• Extending Cachet Woods Court to connect to the newly constructed road crossing
• Constructing a bridge over Highway 404 and a bridge over the Rouge River
• Installing sidewalks, multi-use pathways and landscaping
• Caring for the environment by planting thousands of native trees and plants, stabilizing and naturalizing the river and improving storm water quality
Impacts to residents and travellers in spring 2024:
• On Markland Street, traffic will shift to the north side of the road to accommodate construction on the south side
• On Orlando Avenue, traffic will shift to the south side of the road to accommodate construction on the north side
• Lane closures will take place throughout the day as required
• Night work will occur as required; residents may experience noise outside of regular construction hours
• Access to homes and businesses will be maintained
What to expect once the project is complete:
Once finished, there will be an additional route for all travellers across Highway 404 between 16th Avenue and Major Mackenzie Drive; this new route will provide more access and alternatives to businesses and residents, as well as beyond the immediate areas within the City of Markham and City of Richmond Hill.
Scarlett Liu, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Markham Economist & Sun
