Community Spirit Shines in Markham: Residents Shape the Future of 14th Avenue Development

Community Spirit Shines in Markham: Residents Shape the Future of 14th Avenue Development

A large-scale housing development proposed at the southwest corner of 14th Avenue and Markham Road has undergone major changes following strong feedback from local residents. The plan, originally slated to bring more than 820 affordable housing units to the area, faced widespread opposition from the Markham community. As a result, the project has been revised to better align with the needs and character of the neighborhood—demonstrating not only civic engagement but also why Markham continues to be one of the most desirable cities in the GTA.

The Original Proposal: Over 800 Units of Affordable Housing

In December, Neamsby Investment Inc. submitted a development proposal for 5933 14th Avenue, seeking approval for:

  • Three purpose-built rental apartment buildings ranging from 8 to 11 storeys, totaling approximately 786 units.

  • 34 rental townhomes.

  • A 0.15-hectare public park to be donated to the city.

The plan was part of the federal Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), a national initiative supporting the rapid development of housing to benefit low- and middle-income families.

Prime Location in One of the GTA’s Most Connected Communities

The proposed development sits in a highly accessible and vibrant part of Markham. It is directly adjacent to Armadale Square, minutes from a Costco, and near public amenities such as the Aaniin Community Centre. Surrounded by newly built homes and a growing population of diverse families, the area is highly sought-after for its blend of suburban calm and urban convenience.

Markham’s excellent schools, reliable public services, and well-developed infrastructure make it a top choice for homebuyers and investors alike. Its diverse and tightly-knit communities, combined with a forward-thinking city council, have helped maintain its reputation as one of the GTA’s most livable cities.

Community Concerns: “We Must Be Heard”

Despite the development's potential to increase housing availability, many local residents voiced concerns about overdevelopment and the strain on existing infrastructure.

On February 4, a public consultation hosted by Markham City Council drew dozens of residents who shared their views at the hearing. Outside, large groups rallied with banners and chants, urging the city to reconsider the scale and focus of the project.

Residents were particularly worried about the impact of high-density rental units on local schools, traffic congestion, hospital wait times, and already limited green space. Social media platforms lit up with frustration, with one user warning that “the intersection will be completely clogged—this needs to be stopped.”

Grassroots Advocacy Brings Real Change

Community members didn't stop at voicing opinions—they organized. On the weekend following the hearing, protests were held at Highway 7 and Warden Avenue, highlighting the depth of concern among residents.

Understanding that the project was backed by federal and provincial initiatives to fast-track housing, residents took a pragmatic approach: they advocated for modifications rather than outright cancellation. Their message was clear—development must reflect the unique needs and realities of Markham.

On March 18, Markham Council announced that the developer had agreed to several major revisions:

  • The affordable housing component in one building was converted to senior housing.

  • Two apartment buildings (9 and 11 storeys) would offer market-rate rentals with rents starting from $2,650.

  • Over 100 parking spaces were added, bringing the parking ratio from 0.88 to 1.0 per unit.

  • Additional green space was included in the revised plan.

  • New community amenities were added, including a party room and a daycare.

  • A local committee will help screen tenants for the senior units to ensure eligibility and fairness.

A Victory for Community Engagement

News of the successful modifications spread quickly across Chinese social media. Many residents expressed pride and joy over what they considered a shared victory. One user posted, “This is a win for every family who stood together through wind, rain, and snow.”

Others praised the effort:

  • “Thank you for benefiting the entire community.”

  • “This sets a powerful example for Chinese Canadians—our voices matter.”

  • “So proud of the unity in this neighborhood. We protected our home like a family.”

Why Markham Stands Out

This event showcases not only the power of community advocacy but also highlights what makes Markham such a special place to live. The city is known for:

  • Excellent schools and education systems.

  • Robust public amenities like libraries, community centers, and green spaces.

  • Strong cultural diversity with a welcoming atmosphere for families from all backgrounds.

  • Economic vibrancy, with growing commercial hubs and top-tier connectivity to the rest of the GTA.

  • And now, a growing track record of responsive governance and engaged citizens.

As more families look for a safe, well-connected, and family-oriented place to call home, Markham continues to set a high standard—proving that development and community values can go hand in hand.




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