The construction is underway on the new pedestrian and cyclist bridge over the CN rail tracks to provide a safe pedestrian connection between David Dunlap Observatory Park and 63 Observatory Lane. The project includes the construction of the new bridge, parking lot with 14 spaces, entry plaza, trails, pedestrian lighting, site furnishings, and tree planting.

Residents were invited to comment on the proposed design from February 21 to March 17, 2023. 

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

As part of the implementation of the RHDDO Park Master Plan and expansion of the interim RHDDO trails completed in 2021, a multi-use path and granite chip nature trail was constructed in 2023 the woodlands located in the north-west area of the park.

View the RHDDO Trail Map

The completed trails:

• help protect and enhance the natural area by providing a designated path for visitors
• allow visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and landscape features in areas of the park that were previously inaccessible
• encourage stewardship
• increase accessibility to the woodland for future restoration work

For more information, email Mike Mccallum, Project Manager Infrastructure Delivery or call him at 905-771-2469.

Ecological 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 natural areas to a healthy ecosystem. Work includes:

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

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

To date, more than 10,000 trees and shrubs have been planted and fencing has been installed to protect newly planted trees from browsing deer and allow tree growth.

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