RHDDO Ongoing Projects

The Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory facility restoration and revitalization project was completed in spring 2021. The exteriors of both the Administration building and the Observatory dome were restored to preserve their heritage features.

The work was completed through the following phases: 

• Phase 1 – restoration of the Administration building exterior, including windows and doors, masonry and stone, copper features, metal domes and repainting of exterior metal surfaces 
• Phase 2 – restoration of the Observatory building exterior, including metal surfaces, windows, doors, catwalks and repainting of exterior metal surfaces 
• Phase 3 – site and servicing work to the Administration building, including improved drainage, foundation waterproofing, and improvements to both water and electrical services to the building 

Construction has been completed for the new 2.25 km trail system at Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory Park located centrally within Richmond Hill bounded by Bayview Avenue to the east, the CN rail line to the west, 16th Avenue to the south and Hillsview Drive. 

The trail system will provide connectivity to surrounding neighbourhoods and greater use of the park for residents in the early stage of the implementation of the Master Plan. The trail surfacing is crushed granular and will be AODA accessible for all residents to enjoy.

• RHDDO Trail Alignment

Email Mike Mccallum, Project Manager Infrastructure Delivery Services for more information or call him at 905-771-2469. 

Woodlot restoration and removal of dead/hazardous trees will be taking place in the Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory (RHDDO) Park over the next few years.

Why is this work being undertaken?

Preserving and enhancing natural areas is one of eight key principles in the RHDDO Park Master Plan. There are currently many trees on the property which are in poor and/or hazardous condition due to infestations and storm damage. As a result, the forest is in poor health and vulnerable to undesirable plants which grow aggressively and have the ability to destroy the park's unique environment.

Richmond Hill is implementing a long-term plan to restore the woodlands to a healthy forest. Work includes:

• Hazardous tree and debris removal
• Herbicide treatment
• Hydrological Improvements to the landscape
• Tree planting
• Monitoring

While this work will change the appearance of the forest, it is a temporary and necessary step to create space for new native trees that will enhance the RHDDO Park.

To date, more than 8,000 trees and shrubs have been planted and fencing has been installed to protect newly planted trees from browsing deer and allow tree growth.