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A Living document of Best Practices
Markham is re-engineering its future by carefully managing growth and changing development patterns. To this end, Markham Centre development will continue to be measured and evaluated on the principles and best practices of sustainable development.
Our Performance Measures which are now correlated with Canada Green Building Councils LEED® New Construction and Major Renovations, Version 1.0 plus anticipated correlations with CaGBC LEED® Neighbourhood Development, Version 1.0, are designed to be a dynamic part of the living legacy that we're building for future generations. The Measures will be reviewed and the results monitored annually. They will also be updated regularly to reflect the newest technologies and the most up-to-date best practices. Markham's plan to continue to involve its citizens in creating world-class benchmarks for sustainable development is evidence of the Town's long-term commitment to creating a progressive, sustainable urban downtown community.
5 Key Themes for Performance Measures
Greenlands
The protection and enhancement of the Rouge River valley lands and its tributaries as an environmental system while creating an integrated open space system. The protection of existing natural heritage features for future generations is the primary goal. A passive recreational trail network is proposed to recognize existing boundaries while affording recreational opportunities in a series of connected urban parks.
Built Form
The Build Form theme focuses on the lots and block pattern, view and vistas, building placement and the promotion of pedestrian oriented streets. Highway 7 is to be transformed into an urban boulevard while keeping its role as an important component of the road and transit network. Additional lighting, sidewalks and trails, and high quality architectural standards will help to make the new downtown core a pedestrian-friendly environment. Build Form will support the urban core while concentrating on ecologically sustainable development.
Green Infrastructure
To protect the environment of the valley lands, effective management of urban runoff and storm water is critically important. Green Infrastructure strategies will focus on initiatives that affect air quality, water conservation, waste reduction and efficient energy use.
Public Space
In order to make Markham Centre a people place, considerable attention will be given to the design of public parks and facilities, streetscapes and major gathering places. Social and cultural considerations will be taken into account to ensure that Markham's new downtown is welcoming to all.
Transportation
A focus on rapid transit and other non-automotive modes of travel will help to ensure that the pedestrian gains equality with the automobile in Markham Centre. The Town's Transportation Planning Study identifies road network improvements, rapid transit corridors, effective new policies and educational initiatives to relieve congestion.
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