Urban Design Study
Hwy 48: 16th Ave. to Major Mackenzie Dr.

The Hwy 48 Urban Design Study was initiated by the Town of Markham in response to concerns expressed by local residents and business groups regarding the upcoming commercial development along the section of Highway 48, between 16th Ave and Major Mackenzie Drive East .

The Town of Markham retained Brook McIlroy Planning & Urban Design Consultants to assist the Town in preparing an Urban Design Study establishing a design vision, and recommending principles and guidelines for the area.

1. Create an attractive transition between the new urban area and the historic main street;
2. Balance the needs of road users with local residents by providing a pedestrian-friendly, mixed use community;
3. Foster innovative and sensitive design of retail and mixed-use development;
4. Review, update and build on the Wismer Commons Design Guidelines;
5. Foster connections and appropriate transition between lands fronting onto Hwy 48 and the growing Greensborough and Wismer communities to the east and west; and
6. Encourage alternative modes of transportation including walking, cycling and transit.

The design study commenced with a Design Workshop on February 10, 2005 . Many ideas and comments were collected from the community which assisted in developing the design strategies and guidelines.

A community information meeting was held on June 13, 2005 to present the recommended design strategies, options and principles to the public. Participants' comments were collected and incorporated by the Consulting Team, where possible, into the final study report.

The Development Services Committee of the Town of Markham Council endorsed the final consultant report on October 18, 2005.

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• Best Homes Public Information Meeting Presentation September 17, 2009 (844k/18p)
  The presentation provides information about the planning context for the Best Homes application at 9582 Highway 48, including an overview of the Town’s Growth Management Strategy and the ongoing Markham Road/Hwy 48 Corridor Study
  
  
• Final Urban Design Study by Brook McIlroy Inc. entitled "Urban Design Study, Hwy 48: 16th Ave. to Major Mackenzie Drive " dated October 2005.
  Due to large file size, a paper copy of this study is available at the Development Services Counter at the Town office, 101 Town Centre Boulevard (Thornhill door) for a charge.
  
  
• Staff Report to Development Services Committee entitled "Highway 48: 16th Ave. to Major Mackenzie Dr. Urban Design Study" dated October 18, 2005. (813k/18p)
  This report is also available from the Clerks department counter at the Town office, 101 Town Centre Boulevard.
  
  
• Presentation to Development Services Committee October 18, 2005. (1559k/28p)

Shirley Marsh, Senior Urban Design Planner, 905-477-7000 ext. 6900