Durham Regional Council endorses SvN’s Durham Meadoway Visioning Study

Durham Regional Council has endorsed SvN Architects + Planners’ Durham Meadoway Visioning Study, which marks a milestone in the transformation of the 30-kilometre multi-use path corridor spanning Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Oshawa.

The Visioning Study aims to create a blueprint for how an underused corridor can be transformed into a place that benefits both people and the environment while simultaneously fulfilling current and future hydro transmission needs.

The study, led by SvN, emphasizes the importance of active transportation, connectivity, community integration, and environmental stewardship for the future linear park. The 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,” said Gerardo Paez Alonso, landscape lead, SvN. “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.”

The Durham Meadoway Visioning Study is the result of a collaboration with several stakeholders, such as Durham Region, each of the four municipalities, various agencies such as the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority, Infrastructure Ontario, Hydro One, Parks Canada and the public. SvN then developed a framework and toolkit that will arm all stakeholders with a vision that revolves around placemaking and a regenerative approach to infrastructure development.

The study also aims to create a cohesive network of active recreation spaces, educational opportunities, and ecological enhancements. Additionally, it includes considerations for connecting neighbouring municipalities such as Toronto and other multi-use pathway corridors including the Scarborough Meadoway. These connections will enhance regional mobility and accessibility, and further integrate Durham Region into the broader Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Key to the study is the creation of nodes and destinations along the Durham Meadoway which will feature signage to highlight the significance of neighbouring wetlands as well as other natural assets in the region. SvN’s approach includes technical considerations such as innovative road crossings and potential underground pathways to minimize environmental and wildlife disruption.

“The Durham Meadoway will serve not only as an active transportation route but also as a dynamic, inviting landscape that enriches the experience for the surrounding communities. It integrates a variety of typologies—from active recreation spaces to educational nodes highlighting natural assets like wetlands,” said Colleen Goodchild, director of planning, Region of Durham. “This project has the opportunity to promote environmental stewardship, enhance social well-being, and spur economic vitality throughout the Region.”

In 2022, the Region of Durham selected SvN to develop a study for the 30-kilometre Durham Meadoway. 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, for the next stage and with the study complete and endorsed.