Vision for Milliken: A New Transit-Focused Community Rising
The Milliken Transit-Oriented Community (Milliken TOC) is poised to become one of York Region’s most ambitious mixed-use developments, centered around the Milliken GO Station. As the Province pushes its TOC (Transit Oriented Communities) strategy, this project exemplifies how growth, density, and connectivity can be woven into existing urban fabrics. With a submission to the City of Markham in September 2025, the Milliken TOC promises up to 5,500 residential units, commercial space, green public areas, and a walkable, transit-friendly design.
Project Overview & Details
Located at 4350 Steeles Avenue East, the Milliken TOC site is adjacent to the GO Station and sits on land formerly occupied by Market Village. The proposal calls for eight mixed-use buildings with heights ranging from 15 to 50 storeys, plus podiums and mid-rise buildings. Within it, developers plan roughly 5,500 residential units and about 10,100 m² of commercial space (retail, office, services).
Public spaces are integral to the plan: a five-acre public park, pedestrian-oriented streets, and green infrastructure (bioswales, permeable paving) are included to improve sustainability and walkability. The design envisions minimizing car dependence by emphasizing active transportation, direct links to transit, and compact urban design.
As of September 12, 2025, the development concept was submitted to the City of Markham, marking a significant milestone in the public review and planning processes.
Why Milliken TOC Matters
Strengthening Transit & Regional Connectivity
By focusing large-scale growth around the GO Station on the Stouffville Line, the project reinforces the idea of “living near transit.” This aligns with provincial goals to reduce car dependency and shift towards sustainable, transit-oriented growth. Improved pedestrian and cycling linkages will connect residents to local bus services and regional transit.
Meeting Housing Demand & Intensification
Markham’s expansion and Greater Toronto’s demand for housing make sites like Milliken essential. The Milliken Centre Secondary Plan (MCSP) has already doubled its land area to accommodate more growth. Smart Density This TOC proposal directly addresses those growth objectives by providing a large quantum of housing and mixed uses.
Urban Sustainability & Community Experience
Beyond density, TOC aims for environmental impact reduction through energy-efficient buildings, stormwater management, native landscaping, and prioritizing walkability. Integrating retail, offices, and amenities in the same district helps create a “15-minute neighbourhood” where daily needs are close by.
Moreover, the transformation of a former underutilized site (Market Village) into a lively, compact neighbourhood demonstrates how redevelopment can revitalize aging assets.
You can also check our blogs about 77 Howard Street: Greatwise Proposes 38-Storey Flatiron Condo Tower Near Sherbourne Station and Sloane Rental Towers Across Yorkdale Wrap Construction: 759 New Units in North York.
Challenges & Considerations Ahead
- Transit capacity & infrastructure: The success of TOCs depends on transit service reliability. The current GO system and associated lines must be scaled to handle increased ridership.
- Community engagement & approval: Local residents will expect meaningful consultation and design adjustments during the public review phases.
- Balancing density with context: Integrating high-rise towers with surrounding neighbourhoods will require careful transitions and design sensitivity.
- Phasing & timing: Delivering 5,500 units in a market environment with construction costs, supply chain risk, and zoning approvals will be complex.
Final Thoughts
The Milliken Transit-Oriented Community marks a bold step forward in how the GTA and York Region envision future growth. By centering development around a major transit hub like the Milliken GO Station, and blending residential, commercial, and public realm elements, it has the potential to become a model for sustainable, connected neighbourhoods.
This project isn’t just about buildings—it’s about rethinking places: replacing underused land with active public space, embedding walkability, and reducing reliance on cars. The inclusion of green infrastructure, public parks, and community amenities shows ambition beyond mere density.
If approved, Milliken TOC could shift how we plan around transit in Greater Toronto. It will influence future developments in Scarborough, Markham, and beyond. For condo developers, investors, city planners, and residents, this is a project worth watching.
I’ll continue to monitor its progress—especially the public consultations expected Fall 2025—and keep you updated with design changes, market implications, and investment potential.
