MARKHAM, ON – September 12, 2022 – The City of Markham is excited to share that it has successfully acquired the Shouldice Property located at 7750 Bayview Avenue in Thornhill. This 9-hectare (22-acre) site will be utilized for various purposes aimed at enhancing the long-term quality of life for its residents, including:
A new public park and open space Preservation of the former Mc Cullagh Estate Other public and municipal community uses The ongoing lease with Shouldice Hospital, which has specialized in hernia care since 1945
Markham’s Parks and Recreation departments oversee more than 470 hectares (1161 acres) of parks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw a surge in park usage as many residents took advantage of outdoor spaces for recreation and leisure.
“By acquiring this sought-after site, Markham is progressing towards its Integrated Leisure Master Plan goals in this area of the city. The site’s natural beauty makes it one of Markham’s prized assets, and we are thrilled to bring it into public ownership for everyone in our community,” stated Frank Scarpitti, Mayor of Markham.
The city is buying the land from a limited partnership managed by Liberty Development Corporation. There is currently an application submitted to develop the site into a mixed-use residential project.
The $188M purchase price will be covered by reserves specifically allocated for acquiring and developing city parkland. This amount was carefully assessed through two independent land appraisals. No property tax dollars are being used for this transaction; instead, it’s funded by fees collected through development applications meant solely for purchasing parkland for current and future residents.
“I am thrilled that Markham Council approved a plan proposed by me and Mayor Scarpitti that ensures these lands will be fully owned by the City of Markham,” expressed Ward 1 Councillor Keith Irish. “This acquisition secures the property indefinitely while preserving its unique historical aspects and adding more parkland for generations to come.”
The City anticipates finalizing this land deal by year’s end once all ongoing due diligence processes are complete.
“I want to express my gratitude to the property owner and its development manager, Liberty Development Corporation, for their cooperation with the City of Markham during this process. Finalizing this agreement supports Markham’s strategy to secure greenspace as we prepare for future growth. With Thornhill’s population growing alongside increased densities coming to our area, obtaining additional open space is a crucial step,” added Mayor Scarpitti.
Image of the current greenspace and trail system.
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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti’s Office:
At mayorscarpitti@markham. ca. All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:
Kisha Powell, Media Relations & Communications Specialist at kpowell@markham. ca. About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with over 356,000 residents and being York Region’s largest community out of nine total areas, hosts more than 650 companies headquartered here along with over 1,500 high-tech and life science businesses. As a leading region attracting foreign direct investment with over 234 international companies based within its borders today since its founding in the late 1790s, Markham stands as Canada’s most diverse community enjoying rich heritage alongside exceptional community planning services plus a thriving local economy. Stay Connected: Visit our newsroom or search #Markham News and #Markham Events for updates on City programs services events.
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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti’s Office:At mayorscarpitti@markham. ca. All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:
Kisha Powell, Media Relations & Communications Specialist at kpowell@markham. ca. About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with over 356,000 residents and being York Region’s largest community out of nine total areas, hosts more than 650 companies headquartered here along with over 1,500 high-tech and life science businesses. As a leading region attracting foreign direct investment with over 234 international companies based within its borders today since its founding in the late 1790s, Markham stands as Canada’s most diverse community enjoying rich heritage alongside exceptional community planning services plus a thriving local economy. Stay Connected: Visit our newsroom or search #Markham News and #Markham Events for updates on City programs services events.
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