Allaying residents concerns about the funding for the ambitious Whitby downtown project, Mayor Elizabeth Roy said it will not be an issue for at least 2028.
Large projects generally have a implications for residents as part of their funding conventionally involves a tax increase. An example is the proposed $266 million Seaton recreation and library complex, which may result in a 11.7 per cent tax hike (see below).
“It’s important to understand that the Brock Street redesign is a long-term project that will take over 10 years to complete. Funding for this is not part of the town’s 2026 budget and won’t be included in next year’s budget either,” said Roy.
Durham Post has been unable to ascertain the investment required for the project.
The Town of Whitby is working on a multi-year project to refresh and revitalize historic Brock Street, from the exit at Highway 401 all the way north to the CP rail track near Maple Street.
Next Steps
A project of this size and scope requires a lot of community consultation, and that’s what we’re starting with, said Roy.
The first round of public consultation took place in 2024, and the second round is underway now.
The next step will be bringing a report to council in early 2026, that includes a concept design, the mayor said.
We’ve already heard that residents want the downtown to be more pedestrian friendly with improved parking, road safety, transit connectivity and accessibility, she said adding that feedback has also included a focus on maintaining Downtown Whitby’s heritage character, beautifying the space, and making the downtown a strong draw for business investment and tourism.
This is the last item to complete in the Downtown Whitby Action Plan approved by council in 2016. Supporting downtowns as thriving destinations is also one of 62 action items in Whitby’s Community Strategic Plan, which was created based on feedback from thousands of residents.
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