Bayview Avenue from 16th Avenue to Major Mackenzie Drive

April 15, 2025
City of Richmond Hill

Transportation improvements prepare York Region to meet the needs of motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and transit users today and into the future. York Region is improving Bayview Avenue from 16th Avenue to Major Mackenzie Drive in the City of Richmond Hill.

Duration: Late April 2025 to October 2025

Map showing construction area affecting Bayview Avenue from 16th Avenue to Major Mackenzie Drive

Description:

  • York Region is removing and replacing asphalt road surface on Bayview Avenue from 16th Avenue to Major Mackenzie Drive
    • Traces of asbestos are present in the current asphalt on Bayview Avenue
    • Asbestos was used in asphalt mixes throughout the 1970s and early 1980s to improve performance
    • The risk of exposure to asbestos for workers and bystanders is low
    • As a precaution, York Region’s contractor will take protective measures during removal of existing asphalt containing traces of asbestos
  • Intersection improvements on Bayview Avenue at David Dunlap Boulevard/Ardwold Gate, Weldrick Road and Palmer Avenue
    • Upgrading traffic control signals and lighting; temporary signals will be in place during construction
    • Enhancing audible pedestrian signals and tactile walking surface indicators to alert people with low or no vision of an upcoming intersection
    • Reconstructing crosswalk ramps at signalized and non-signalized intersections 

Impacts to travellers:

  • The road will remain open to through traffic; however, temporary lane closures are required:
    • Major work, including paving, will occur Monday to Friday nights from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.
    • Other work, such as intersection improvements, will occur Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Access to homes and businesses will be maintained

As with all construction projects, work may be rescheduled due to weather. York Region will provide advance notice where possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there asbestos in the asphalt?

Small amounts of asbestos was commonly used in asphalt mixes throughout the 1970s and early 1980s to improve its performance. 

Is every road tested for asbestos before construction?

While every road is reviewed to see if it may contain asbestos, not every road needs to be tested prior to construction. In general, during the design phase York Region reviews historic construction records to confirm whether asbestos may be present or not. If the presence of asbestos cannot be ruled out, testing is undertaken.

What can I expect to see and hear during construction?

Equipment operators may be wearing additional personal protective equipment while removing asphalt, such as respirators and disposable overalls. Construction vehicles and signage may advise of the presence of asbestos.

What is the risk of exposure for workers and bystanders?

As asbestos is bound within the pavement, it does not pose a risk to the public and can be left in place until removal and replacement is needed, based on the condition of the road.

Construction activity that disturbs the asbestos, such as asphalt removal, may cause some particles to become airborne. During these activities, the risk of exposure to asbestos for bystanders is low. To minimize the risk to workers, operators running the removal equipment take the following precautions:

  • Use dust collecting devices with HEPA filters on equipment, to prevent dust from becoming airborne
  • Wet the asphalt pavement prior to removal and during removal activities to suppress the dust
  • Provide personal protective equipment, such as disposable coveralls and respirators, to equipment operators
  • Transport and dispose of asphalt containing asbestos to a site licensed for the acceptance and disposal of asbestos waste  
     

Thank you for your patience during the construction period. We understand construction creates challenges for the community and we are working to deliver this project with minimal disruption. If you have any questions or concerns, staff will be pleased to respond. Contact us using any method noted below and quote “Contract: 25-154” in your inquiry.

General Inquiries:
York Region, Public Works
Phone: 1-877-464-9675 ext. 75000
TTY: 1-866-512-6228
Email: @email
After hours emergency: 1-877-464-9675 ext. 75200