Ontario investing $127M to build new York University campus in Markham

The Province is pumping a $127 million investment to build York Region’s first university campus.

The Government of Ontario announced Friday that it is investing in a new York University campus in Markham, expanding postsecondary education in the area.

Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti said that the City has been working with York to build the campus there.

“I applaud the Provincial government for their financial support, making our dream a reality,” said Mayor Scarpitti in a statement. “This new campus will help build a vibrant cultural and academic hub within Markham and York Region. Markham is already home to Canada’s tech and life sciences leaders and this addition of a world class University will allow us to attract and retain some of brightest minds in the world, work with industry leaders on research and development, support and grow our local talent pool and provide opportunities for students to thrive in their local community.”

#YorkU thrilled by @ONgov commitment of $127M for future Markham Centre campus @cityofmarkham @YorkRegionGovt #ONpse https://t.co/63v4aAlTOb

— York University News (@YorkUnews) June 9, 2017

The new university campus will serve an estimated 4,000 students in York Region, with the potential for more students over time, according to the provincial government. The campus will offer a broad range of business, arts and social science-related programs, and provide students with opportunities for research, experiential learning and collaboration.

York’s president and vice-chancellor Mamdouh Shoukri said that the Government of Ontario’s investment will ensure the school is able to meet the growing demands for access to postsecondary education in the region.

“We are delighted that Premier Kathleen Wynne and the Ontario government are dedicated to the success of our new York University campus in Markham Centre,” he said.

The new Markham campus will be located north of Highway 407 between Kennedy Road and Warden Avenue in York Region and is expected to open in 2021.

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