Newmarket to create its own Central Park
Vision for property includes walking trails, skating rink, market vendors
Newmarket plans to create a Central Park-inspired green space with the purchase of a landmark property.
The 4.6-hectare property, located on the northwest corner of Mulock Dr. and Yonge St., known as the Mulock farm/estate, comes with a price tag of $24 million and will be paid for through debt financing, according to the town.
This cost represents a one-time, $50-per-household tax increase, or $10 per year phased in over five years.
The intention is to create a community park and outdoor green space inspired by New York’s Central Park and outdoor skating trails such as in Brampton’s Gage Park and Huntsville’s Arrowhead Ice Trail. “With unanimous support by council, the vision is to secure this large, rare, natural property now, to become our Central Park, to service the existing and future residents,” Mayor Tony van Bynen said.
The vision is to have walking trails, a one-kilometre skating trail, lights, fire pits, market vendors and an outdoor skating rink, Regional Councillor John Taylor added.
Above the purchase cost, the development will be funded by growth, provincial and federal infrastructure grant funding, sponsorships and donations, according to the town.
“Each generation of the Mulock family has taken great pride to maintain this beautiful and historical home and property as it is today,” Debbie Mulock Barbour said.
“Enjoy, respect and protect our meeting place and home as a tribute to Sir William Mulock.”
Residents will be able to view the vision for the property at a community open house on Feb. 27 from 4 to 8 p.m. Council will discuss a staff report for supplementary budget options to finance the purchase of the Mulock property at its Feb. 26 committee of the whole meeting, with potential final approval being discussed on March 5 at 7 p.m.