The proposal to build a…

The proposal to build a residential development near Langstaff and Highway 400 is a profoundly unwise decision for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, traffic congestion in Woodbridge has surged dramatically in recent years due to the presence and ongoing construction of new residential buildings such as those at Jane and Highway 7, and Highway 400 and Rutherford. Introducing another residential complex at Langstaff and Highway 400 would exacerbate the already intolerable traffic conditions that many Vaughan residents endure at this intersection. Langstaff and 400 does not have a Northbound ramp to the 400 OR an exit from the 400 South which will increase traffic drastically along Weston Road as drivers seek access to the 400 North/South via Rutherford or Highway 7. The additional congestion will likely lead to longer commute times, increased emissions, and heightened frustration among Vaughan residents.

Secondly, studies have shown that individuals who live near highways are at a greater risk of various health discrepancies such as coronary heart disease (CHD), asthma, cancer, and more. This Epidemiology study found that "long-term exposure to ambient air pollution, especially fine particles, is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality" ( Gan et al, 2010). By creating a new residential complex off of a highway, it would be exposing future residents to these significant health risks, especially young families and children.
Additionally, this development would not only contribute to the existing pollution levels but also potentially increase the need for more healthcare and reduce the overall quality of life for the community in the near future. Public Health Ontario also advertises the serious health impacts associated with individuals who are consistently breathing in air pollutants from motorized vehicles and industrialized factories. Additionally, this development would not only contribute to the existing pollution levels but also potentially increase the need for more healthcare and reduce the overall quality of life for the community in the near future.

Thirdly, new and young residents will face significant isolation from various amenities such as schools, libraries, and community centres. Residents will encounter challenges with their weekly commutes to work due to limited access to transportation services such as Viva, GoTransit, the TTC Subway, compounded by the lack of a northbound ramp to Highway 400 at Langstaff Road. Living in the industrialized area of Woodbridge, ON, residents will struggle to find convenient transportation options for traveling to and from work, school, grocery stores, places of worship, parks, and other essential destinations. This lack of accessibility paired with the high costs of living could lead to increased stress and decreased quality of life for those who rely on public transportation. Additionally, the isolation from community amenities may hinder social integration and community engagement for new and young residents, increasing mental health disparities.

Next, construction of new buildings will have a detrimental impact on local businesses, many of which will be forced to close to make way for the new developments. These businesses, which have long served the community, provide essential goods and services, employment opportunities, and contribute to the local economy. Their closure will not only result in job losses but also inconvenience residents who rely on these establishments for their daily needs. The closure of these businesses will put many families at risk, prioritizing the interests of profit-driven developers over the well-being of the community.

The development of new condos at Langstaff and Highway 400 will primarily benefit profit-seeking developers and foreign landowners, rather than the residents of Vaughan. This city is already large, and additional congestion, construction, and high-density housing will not enhance the quality of life for its citizens. The proposed location is highly inconvenient, exacerbating the challenges faced by nearby residents and disrupting their daily lives. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of current residents over further urban expansion. Therefore, developing new condos in this area is not advisable and will likely cause more harm than good to the people of Vaughan. Please help protect our community and avoid adding further difficulties to our lives.