Protecting And Expanding Our Parkland

From day one in 2018, I knew Aurora had work to do. For too long, we were falling behind when it came to protecting and expanding our parkland. We weren’t investing enough, and we weren’t thinking far enough ahead. So we changed that. We didn’t wait for the “perfect” moment — we created it through decisive action and leadership that puts people first. Because we made a clear choice: to invest in what families value most — parks, trails, and green spaces where community happens.

Since then, we’ve upgraded parks, playgrounds, and trails across our town, helping connect neighbourhoods and promote active living. We opened Highland Gate Central Park in 2023 and John Abel Park in 2024. And we took it even further by securing 28 acres of new parkland — the largest land acquisition for parks Aurora has seen in a generation. That didn’t happen by accident. That happened because of intentional leadership and a commitment to protecting what matters most.

Those lands include a 16-acre property along Yonge Street, the former George Street School site, and two critical properties on Henderson Drive. And when it mattered most, we stepped up to protect Henderson Forest — preserving endangered species, safeguarding rare trees, and standing up for something that simply cannot be replaced. That’s Aurora at its best. That’s what happens when leadership listens, takes action, and delivers results.

And just like our work to expand the David Tomlinson Nature Reserve, we’re not just talking about protecting nature — we’re doing it. The results speak for themselves. Aurora’s tree canopy has grown from 28 per cent a decade ago to over 34 per cent today, and we’re on track to reach 40 per cent by 2035. That’s more than just a number. It’s something residents can see, feel, and experience every single day.

Because this is how you build a stronger community: not by chance, and not by talk, but through action.