The Durham Regional Council has endorsed our Durham Meadoway Visioning Study, marking a significant milestone in the transformation of the 30-kilometre multi-use path corridor spanning Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Oshawa. Marking a first of its kind for Durham, the Visioning Study creates a valuable blueprint for how an underutilized corridor can be transformed into a destination that benefits people and the environment while still fulfilling current and future hydro transmission needs. The study emphasizes the importance of active transportation, connectivity, community integration, and environmental stewardship for the future linear park. This endorsement in June marks the completion of Stage 1 of the Region-led project.

"This Study was delivered through our regenerative practice approach by laying the groundwork for a sustainable, inclusive, and interconnected multi-use pathway that will benefit residents, visitors, and wildlife,” says Landscape Lead Gerardo Paez Alonso, “Our holistic approach not only optimizes a hydro path into a thriving community asset but also sets a precedent for how we can transform similar underutilized corridors to benefit our communities and increase the endemic biodiversity. The endorsement of SvN’s vision for the Durham Meadoway is a pivotal moment for the Region.”

Marking a first of its kind for Durham, the Visioning Study creates a valuable blueprint for how an underutilized corridor can be transformed into a regional destination.

The Durham Meadoway Visioning Study is the culmination of extensive collaboration with various stakeholders, including Durham Region, each of the four municipalities, several agencies such as the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority, Infrastructure Ontario, Hydro One, Parks Canada and the public. Through robust engagement, we developed a framework and a toolkit that will arm all stakeholders with an overarching vision that centres around placemaking and a regenerative approach to infrastructure development.

Moving beyond traditional infrastructure and landscape projects, the Durham Meadoway Visioning Study aims to create a cohesive network of active recreation spaces, educational opportunities, and ecological enhancements. The study includes considerations for connecting neighbouring municipalities like Toronto and other multi-use pathway corridors such as the Scarborough Meadoway. These connections will enhance regional mobility and accessibility, further integrating Durham Region into the broader Greater Toronto Area.

The Durham Meadoway Visioning Study emphasizes the importance of active transportation, connectivity, community integration, and environmental stewardship for the future linear park.

Key to the Visioning Study is the creation of nodes and destinations along the Durham Meadoway. These nodes will feature informative signage to highlight the significance of neighbouring wetlands and other natural assets in the region. Additionally, our approach includes technical considerations such as innovative road crossings and potential underground pathways to minimize environmental and wildlife disruption.

In 2022, the Region of Durham selected SvN to develop a visioning study for the 30-kilometre Durham Meadoway. For the next stage and with the study complete and endorsed, the Region of Durham will now focus on working towards detailed technical and design studies addressing environmental constraints, socio-economic impacts, and cultural heritage considerations.

Learn more about The Durham Meadoway Visioning Study and read about the progress at Your Durham.

Visualization by Future Landscapes.