- Stouffville has advanced design work on the Civic Square expansion and redesign project, with construction targeted for spring 2026.
- The Town purchased 6343 Main Street in 2022, and demolishing the building added 400 square metres to Civic Square.
- Planned features include seating, shade structures, water elements, upgraded lighting, and flexible areas for markets, concerts, and community events.
- Allocated $1.5 million, the project was funded through the Town’s 2025 capital budget.
- The expansion aims to strengthen downtown placemaking and improve the link between Main Street and Memorial Park.
Stouffville’s Civic Square expansion and redesign project is nearing the 90-percent design mark, with updated drawings recently released as the Town reshapes its downtown public spaces. Also meant to drive community engagement and pedestrian activity in the Village, the effort is progressing alongside the Urban Plaza initiative as Main Street Reconstruction approaches.
The Town purchased 6343 Main Street in 2022 with the intent of expanding Civic Square. After efforts to secure a tenant willing to rehabilitate and operate the existing structure were unsuccessful, the property was removed from Stouffville’s Built Heritage Registry, and Council directed Staff to proceed with demolition as originally planned.
The decision added roughly 400 square metres of new outdoor space to one of the community’s central gathering areas. A public workshop held in April 2024 offered residents an early look at the design direction, and Town Staff gathered feedback on possible features and programming for the site.
Landscape Planning Limited was hired to carry the concept forward, and all preliminary site investigations, including utility reviews and geotechnical testing, have been completed. Tender-ready documents are expected later this year, the Town says, paving the way for work to begin in the spring.
Residents identified a desire for a family-friendly space with comfortable seating, with many calling for recognition of Stouffville’s heritage. Reflecting those comments, “the design will respect and integrate the Town’s cultural history, ensuring our past is honoured,” a Staff report coming to Council next week states.
Stouffville has released new concept drawings, available now on the project website.
The updated concept also introduces features reflecting the community’s call to make the square more welcoming and functional throughout the year. Interactive water and lighting elements were designed to bring movement and sound into the space, helping to soften noise from Main Street and create an engaging environment for visitors of all ages. Enhanced lighting will also improve visibility and support nighttime safety, and seasonal features like dedicated spaces for market booths and a holiday carousel are shown in the Town’s drawings.
A new shade structure is also planned, offering a retreat from the sun and creating an area for Patio Series performances and other activities. “By integrating arts, culture, festivals, and events, the expanded square will be a cornerstone for community engagement,” the report says.
Connectivity was another key theme in public feedback. Residents urged the Town to strengthen the flow between Main Street, Civic Square, and Memorial Park, enhancing the community link and improving walkability in the downtown.
“The square will serve as a lasting gateway and vibrant gathering space to celebrate the town’s historic charm,” the report promises, “providing a flexible public space for residents and visitors to enjoy daily use, community events, and cultural activities.”
