16th Avenue Improvements

What work takes place before road construction begins?

• Work includes relocation of utilities by hydro, gas and telecommunications companies, separate from York Region
• Utility companies’ complete relocation works one at a time, as each provider is responsible for its own infrastructure. They lead their own construction processes, including communications, construction methodology and traffic operations
• Work is completed cautiously to ensure residents and business owners always have power, gas and internet. All utility relocations must be completed in advance of road construction

Why were trees removed?

• Tree removal was necessary to carry out project improvements including road widening, rehabilitating bridges and culverts, installing multi-use paths and upgrading intersections
• Tree work is planned in consultation with a certified arborist. It also complies with York Region’s Street Tree Removal Offsetting Policy, approved by Regional Council in May 2025 and all local bylaws
• The tree restoration plan includes new plantings in boulevards 

What steps does York Region take before starting a road widening project? 

• Work starts eight to 10 years before construction. Steps include an environmental assessment study with community consultation, road design, property acquisition, utility relocation and permit applications
• Staff coordinate work with community partners - including ministries, local cities and towns, conservation authorities, utility companies and developers

How does York Region choose which roads are widened?
Road improvements are prioritized and approved by York Regional Council in a 10-year plan. Priorities include:

• The Region’s most congested areas to provide greater capacity and more travel options
• Major employment areas to enhance access to transit and highways
• Connections to major highways and provincial investments like the subway extension 

Watch the video ‘How York Regional roads are chosen for construction’ for more information. 

Will access to businesses be maintained during construction?

• Access to businesses will be maintained throughout construction
• Business supports will be provided as they become available. If you are a business owner in the area and have questions, please contact @email

Can pedestrians still use the road during construction?

• All hard surface pathways will have a detour or alternate path during any removals for pedestrians to use
• During utility work, sidewalks may be temporarily relocated or closed to facilitate work. Pedestrians are to follow the directional signs to use an open sidewalk and to not use the roadway

Are there any lane reductions associated with this project?

• Two lanes of traffic in each direction will be maintained
• Reduced to one lane in each direction during off-peak hours 

Will there be any work at night?

• Night work may be required to facilitate paving the roadway and pavement markings
• York Region will provide advance notice whenever possible 

How are residents impacted by the project being informed?

• To help travellers plan ahead during road construction, we install advance signage, post messages on social media and our website, and distribute notices
• Travellers are encouraged to use traffic and navigation tools. York Region provides real-time traffic and road information in open data, used by many apps
• Subscribe to receive project updates sent directly to your email
• Find us on social media: @YorkRegionGovt