All Posts By

Stephen Dasko

UPDATE: New QEW Underpass Open to Northbound Hurontario Street Traffic

By Announcement, Hurontario LRT

Metrolinx has provided an update:

With grading, new pedestrian sidewalks, paving activities, and the installation of lighting complete, crews have finished the final touches of a major engineering achievement in Mississauga South: the new QEW highway underpass. Beginning Friday, December 19, 2025, the underpass is ready to safely accommodate northbound traffic along Hurontario Street underneath the QEW.

The concrete underpass was built and pushed into place using hydraulic rods, an innovative construction methodology known as box-jacking. This marks the first time this methodology has been used in Ontario.

With northbound traffic now permanently diverted through the new underpass, the former northbound lanes will support the future construction of the light rail guideway underneath the highway.

Mississauga earns recognition as a bicycle-friendly community

By Announcement

The City has been awarded the Silver recognition through Share the Road Cycling Coalition for its ongoing commitment to make active transportation a safer, more accessible and valued part of Mississauga’s communities.

December 19, 2025

The City of Mississauga has been recognized as a Silver Bicycle Friendly Community by the Share the Road Cycling Coalition. This award recognizes Canadian municipalities that are making significant efforts to build a culture of cycling. Share the Road awarded the Silver designation based on Mississauga’s strong and comprehensive efforts to advance cycling safety, equity-centred project planning, and community engagement through the Cycling Master Plan and Vision Zero Action Plan.

This is the first time Mississauga has achieved the Silver designation from Share the Road, previously holding a bronze designation since 2012. This achievement comes as cycling continues to grow as a popular hobby, fitness activity and mode of transportation for residents to get around Mississauga.

Cycling highlights in Mississauga

  • Mississauga has more than 600 km of cycling infrastructure. The City has continued to expand Mississauga’s cycling network by installing cycle tracks, protected bike lanes, multi-use trails, and off-road trails.
  • The City has more than 600 bike parking racks available and continues to install more every year. Bike parking is implemented in high-use areas and new transit hubs.
  • Cycling routes are maintained through scheduled street sweeping, winter maintenance, and surface repairs to ensure year-round usability. The City prioritizes snow clearing along major corridors and commuter routes, and will be enhancing winter maintenance of cycling lanes starting this season.
  • The City’s shared e-bike and e-scooter program allows residents to rent shared vehicles at designated stations across Mississauga. This program allows users to travel throughout Mississauga using a mode of transportation that’s sustainable, convenient and accessible.
  • The City has implemented many cycling safety education campaigns through school-based programs, community workshops and communications campaigns focused on etiquette, rules, sharing the trail and protecting vulnerable users. Programs support accessibility, multilingual communication where appropriate, and partnerships that support underserved groups.
  • Mississauga continues to promote cycling through outreach events to encourage participation across all demographics. This year, Mississauga hosted 16 community rides from May through October in addition to Bike Fest, bike repair workshops, Bike to Work Day, Bike Month and the Bike Challenge.
  • The City collaborates with local organizations to provide repair services and improve access to bicycles, helping residents overcome barriers to cycling.
  • The City has four cycling awards administered by the Mississauga Cycling Advisory Committee to recognize outstanding cyclists and cycling organizations.

Learn more about the City’s programs at mississauga.ca/cycling.

Hurricane Melissa Relief and Recovery Initiative

By Announcement

We’re supporting Mississauga-based community group Citizens for the Advancement of Community Development (CACD) with their relief efforts to help those affected by Hurricane Melissa.

You can help support by:

✅ Making a donation to CACD through their online Canada Helps donation page.
✅ Dropping off essential items to Mississauga City Hall, 300 City Centre Drive, Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Some of the most needed items include bedding and linens, non-perishable food items, baby essentials, hygiene and sanitation items, school supplies and new or gently used clothing.

You can learn more about relief efforts, making a donation and the full list of essential items needed on the CACD website: https://cacdcanada.org/

Amid rising flu cases, Peel Public Health reminds residents of the importance of getting vaccinated.

By Food for thought

Children and teens under 18 currently make up the highest number of lab-confirmed influenza cases in Peel. 

BRAMPTON, Ont. – December 17, 2025. Flu cases are rising in Peel region and are projected to continue increasing over the next several weeks.

Peel Public Health is actively monitoring this increase and is especially concerned with the growing number of cases among children. Currently, children 0 to 4 years account for 27% of all lab-confirmed influenza cases in Peel.

Additionally, Peel hospital visits and admissions due to influenza-like illness are increasing. This trend is a reminder that the flu is not just a mild illness, but can cause serious complications, even in healthy individuals.

Residents can protect themselves and their loved ones from getting sick from the flu by following public health recommendations.

Get vaccinated

We strongly recommend all individuals 6 months and older get vaccinated as soon as possible against the flu. It can take up to 2 weeks for the influenza vaccine to provide full protection.

Parents and caregivers play a key role in protecting children by getting vaccinated themselves and reducing household transmission.

Where to get a flu shot

Flu shots are still available. They are free for anyone 6 months or older who lives, works or studies in Peel region.

  • Pharmacies:Most pharmacies offer walk-in or appointment options. Check with your local pharmacy for availability.
  • Healthcare Providers:Vaccines are available for children under 5, their household members, and individuals without OHIP coverage.

Practice prevention

Residents can help stop the spread of respiratory infections by following these simple steps:

  • Stay home when sick.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with your upper sleeve or elbow.
  • If you’re sick and can’t stay home, wear a well-fitted mask in indoor public spaces and avoid contact with vulnerable individuals.

“With flu cases rising in Peel and the upcoming holiday season, it’s important for residents to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. The flu is not just a cold. It can cause severe illness, especially in younger children and older adults.  It’s important for all residents 6 months and older to stay up to date with their flu vaccinations to stay safe and healthy.” 

Dr. Monica Hau, Acting Medical Officer of Health, Peel Region

Know where to go for care

During this time of year, hospital emergency rooms experience a high volume of patients, resulting in longer than usual wait times.

If you or a family member are experiencing a medical emergency or serious injury, visit your nearest emergency department or call 911 immediately.

If you’re unsure whether to go to the emergency department, you can:

Explore more options in Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga to find the proper care for you and your family.

You can also use the interactive tool from Central West OHT to easily find and view nearby healthcare facilities across Peel region, including walk-in clinics, urgent care centres, pharmacies and more.

For the most current respiratory virus trends and data in Peel, visit https://peelregion.ca/health/diseases-infections/respiratory-virus-report.

Wishing You a Wonderful Holiday Season, Ward 1!

By Announcement

 

As we come to the close of another remarkable year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of our residents for your continued engagement, support, and community spirit. It is an honour to serve such a caring and vibrant community.

This festive season, I wish you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas filled with warmth, and special moments. Whether you’re gathering with family, exploring winter activities in our neighbourhoods, or simply enjoying a restful break, I hope this time brings you peace and happiness.

As we look ahead to a new year, I’m excited for the work we will continue together—building a stronger, safer, and even more welcoming Ward 1. Thank you for everything you do to make our community, our home.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Holidays and a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year!

Office staff Angie Dell and Amber Robertson

Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services will receive over $368,000 to enhance firefighter safety

By Announcement, Resources

Funding was received from the Government of Ontario through the Fire Protection Grant to support MFES in advancing its Firefighter Cancer Prevention Program.

December 12, 2025

Today, it was announced that the City of Mississauga will receive over $368,000 through the Government of Ontario’s Fire Protection Grant program. Silvia Gualtieri, Parliamentary Assistant to the Solicitor General and Member of Provincial Parliament for Mississauga East-Cooksville, along with Deputy Mayor Matt Mahoney and Mississauga Fire Chief Stephane Malo, announced the funding to strengthen firefighter safety and emergency response.

This marks the second consecutive year that Mississauga has received funding through the program, supporting Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services (MFES) in advancing its Firefighter Cancer Prevention Program, focused on reducing exposure to harmful contaminants and improving protective equipment.

The funding received will be used to purchase decontamination units to remove carcinogenic substances from gear and equipment, and PFAS-free firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure to cancer-causing chemicals.

The Fire Protection Grant program began in 2024 and was expanded in 2025 to help municipal fire departments expand cancer prevention initiatives, and improve emergency response to lithium-ion battery related incidents.

MTO Update: Opening of QEW Toronto-Bound On-Ramps (New)

By Construction, Ward 1

Update received from the Ministry of Transportation:

We are pleased to inform you that, as of 11:30 AM today, Friday, December 12, 2025, the new ramps providing access to the Toronto-bound direction from Dixie Road are now open to traffic.

We appreciate your patience and support during the construction phase and thank you for your continued cooperation.

Ready, set, roll: Tickets for the 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts are on sale

By Announcement, Events

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts happening in Mississauga next month. Don’t miss out on tickets to see the tournament live at the Paramount Fine Foods Centre.

December 11, 2025

This year, curling fans from coast to coast are rolling with excitement for the action-packed tournament which promises to deliver a rock-solid performance. As the 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts sweeps into town from January 23 to February 1, 2026, Mississauga will transform the Paramount Fine Foods Centre into the heart of Canadian curling action.

Photo credit: Curling Canada/Andrew Klaver

For the first time ever, the GTA will host this iconic national championship, welcoming 18 of the best women’s curling teams from across the country.

The standard schedule for weekday and round-robin play typically features draws at 9 a.m., 2 p.m., and 7 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time). The championship final is scheduled for Sunday, February 1, 2026.

Hurry hard before tickets sell out

Whether you love to play curling, enjoy watching it on TV or are new to the sport, nothing beats watching a game live to experience strategy, sportsmanship, and unforgettable highlights. With an anticipated attendance of thousands and a strong ticket response, particularly for Championship Weekend Packages, fans are encouraged to act quickly as tickets are selling fast.

With affordable options like single-draw tickets to family packages to group seating, the ticket options are endless! Tickets start at just $21 for single-draw tickets, with special youth pricing at $10 for those under 18 and post-secondary students with valid ID.

Single-draw tickets

  • Draws 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16 – starting at $21
  • Draws 2, 4, 6, 12, 15 – starting at $26
  • Draws 1, 5, 17, 18, 19, 20 – starting at $36
  • Draws 3, 21, 22, 23 – starting at $45
  • Draw 24 (Final) – starting at $60

Ticket packages

Curling fans and sports lovers alike can take advantage of packages during the tournament, which include:

  • Full Event package – access to every draw, tickets range from $420–$480
  • Championship Weekend package (January 30 to February 1) – final 6 draws, tickets range from $228–$240
  • Opening Weekend package (January 23 to January 25) – first 6 draws, tickets starting from $108
  • Weekday package – three draws on your chosen weekday, $60–$72
    • Monday Day package – three draws (Monday, January 26)
    • Tuesday Day package – three draws (Tuesday, January 27)
    • Wednesday Day package – three draws (Wednesday, January 28)
    • Thursday Day package – three draws (Thursday, January 29)
  • Group and premium seating options are also available.

Please note, tickets are subject to standard facility and ticket service fees. All sales are final. For all draw times, please click here.

Paramount Fine Foods Centre is an accessibility-friendly venue (e.g., wheelchair access, family-friendly amenities), committed to removing, and preventing barriers to accessibility and inclusion.

Tickets are selling fast. Secure your tickets soon at curling.ca/tickets or at the Paramount Fine Foods Centre box office during regular hours (Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

For questions or more information, please call 905-305-6000 or email Ticket.operations@mississauga.ca

Swept up with excitement: matches to look forward to

Photo credit: Curling Canada/Andrew Klaver

The 10-day event is set to attract thousands of attendees and spectators from across the country and the world. The tournament will showcase a round-robin format, with the top teams advancing to the playoffs. The winning team will be the national champion and will go on to represent Canada at the BKT World Women’s Curling Championship from March 14-22 in Calgary, and return to next year’s Scotties Tournament of Hearts as Team Canada.

While most of the scheduled games won’t be known until the 14 provincial and territorial champions are decided, game times for Team Canada, the host team from Ontario and the other pre-qualified teams are now locked in.

Fierce matchups include a Saturday night showdown between Team Canada (Kerri Einarson) and the host Ontario hometown heroes on January 24 at 7 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time).

From the hack, down the ice to the final hammer, the excitement continues with a highly anticipated rematch between Team Alberta (Kayla Skrlik) and Team Nova Scotia (Christina Black), last year’s playoff opponents, guaranteeing some stone-cold competition on the sheet.

A big hit and roll for Mississauga

The event, hosted at the Paramount Fine Foods Centre in Mississauga, is more than just a tournament. The Scotties Tournament of Hearts is one of Canada’s largest curling events, with national and international exposure.

Visit Mississauga, in collaboration with the Toronto Curling Association, is thrilled to host this prestigious event, projecting significant local economic impacts, including more 2,500 hotel room bookings and upwards of $6 million in economic benefit.

Join us in celebrating one of Canada’s premier curling events and get ready to see some amazing shot rocks!

For more updates and information, visit curling.ca or follow @VisitMississauga on social media.

The Mississauga Santa Claus Parade ‘sleighed’ expectations

By Events

The first Santa Claus Parade in 24 years made a festive comeback to the city centre, bringing good tidings and spreading holiday cheer throughout Mississauga!

December 10, 2025

On November 22, the City of Mississauga hosted the annual Light Up the Square event at Celebration Square, presented by TD, along with its first Santa Claus Parade in the downtown core. City roadways were packed, as people lined the streets with excitement. It is estimated the evening attracted more than 40,000 onlookers from across Mississauga and beyond, all smiling and waving in celebration. Events like this help bring the community together and support local retailers, restaurants and downtown businesses.

Kids enjoying Santa Claus parade with inflatable snowmen and gingerbreads walking the parade route

Light Up the Square delivered

Celebration Square transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland, featuring a stunning Christmas tree, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, beautiful twinkling lights and festive decorations.

Big lit up ornaments hanged on a tree in Celebration Square

The event was emceed by local media favourites Liem Vu and Jaden Lee-Lincoln from Global News Toronto. Families and friends gathered to enjoy the live entertainment, featuring performances by Soul SublimeSHOUT! The Band and the captivating LED hoop dancing by Theland Kicknosway. The Square’s outdoor ice rink welcomed skaters of all ages, adding to the holiday atmosphere.

Hoola hoop juggler at the Santa Claus parade

Santa Claus really did come to town

Themed, “Shine Bright, Sauga!” the Santa Claus Parade was decked out with more than 58 participating groups featuring bright and colourful LED lights, five marching bands and hundreds of participants in festive costumes. The parade route weaved through the crowded downtown streets, led by Santa himself.

Santa Claus in his carriage waving at the crowd during the Santa Claus parade.

Starting at Rathburn Drive and Living Arts Drive, the parade travelled along Living Arts Drive, turned left onto City Centre Drive, and finished at City Centre Drive and Kariya Gate. As the parade made its way through Celebration Square, Santa lit the towering 35-foot Christmas tree, filling the area with even more festive spirit.

The Holiday Express Stop at Living Arts Drive and Princess Royal Drive offered guests a chance to hop aboard and enjoy trackless train rides, illuminated art displays and taste delicious treats from the local food trucks, all while experiencing incredible views of the parade. Candy Cane Corner at Square One featured bustling busker performances, interactive musical bikes and more festive food options.

Mayor Carolyn Parrish and Deputy Mayor John Kovac served as co-parade marshals and led the parade through the city centre.

Mayor Carolyn Parrish and Deputy Mayor John Kovac smiling at the camera

Santa Claus Parade boosts holiday spirit

Previously hosted by the Mississauga Auto Mall, Mississauga’s Santa Claus Parade has a proud legacy of spreading joy to the community. With the support of Council, Mayor Parrish volunteered to take the reins to organize the event as a major downtown attraction this year, with support from City staff, non-profit groups and other local community partners.

In early November, Council approved $100,000 from the City’s portion of the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) reserve to fund the 2025 Santa Claus Parade. This investment aimed to help enhance tourism, support local businesses and restaurants, while contributing to the City’s downtown revitalization by providing seasonal programming.

With large crowds and a big turnout, local restaurants, shops and businesses were bustling with increased activity before and after the parade.

Group of people at Celebration Square enjoying food.

As a pilot event for the City, the parade served as an example of how future holiday events can attract residents and draw visitors to Mississauga’s downtown. It highlights the importance of ongoing investment and growth to generate positive economic benefits.

The parade’s success was made possible thanks to the incredible support of our partners. A special thank you to Mississauga Auto Mall and Square One for their major contributions which helped bring this celebration to life. The City also appreciates Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Limited for sponsoring Photos with Santa.

Peel Region’s 2026 Budget approved by Council

By Announcement

BRAMPTON, ON (December 11, 2025) – Today, Regional Council approved Peel Region’s 2026 Operating and Capital Budget with investments balanced between the needs of residents and businesses and the infrastructure requirements of the broader community.

Recognizing the affordability crisis, Peel Region’s Continuous Improvement Program achieved $8.1 million in cost savings and $3.4 million in cost avoidance during 2025. View the full Efficiencies, Service Improvements and Innovations 2025 report and Appendix.

In addition, through 4 days of deliberation, Peel Regional Council reduced the proposed property tax increase by 20%. The overall 2026 property tax impact for Peel Region services is 1.53%, Peel Regional Police 1.77% and other agencies 0.06% for a total average property tax increase of 3.36%.

The development of Peel Region’s 2026 Budget was anchored to Peel’s Strategic Plan and the community priorities recommended for consideration prior to the budget.

The 2026 Budget includes investments of $7.4 billion, making critical investments for Peel’s growing community to support population-driven service demand, build homes faster, develop deeply affordable housing, enhance community safety and well-being, keep Peel Region’s infrastructure assets in good repair, and manage the impacts of funding shortfalls.

Peel Service investments to support the needs of the community include:

  • To build homes faster, a capital investment of $1.9 billion to support our backbone infrastructure, water supply and wastewater
  • To address public safety, the addition of 175 officers and 25 civilian professionals to address historical underinvestment in staffing, regional growth (population, households, registered vehicles and calls to 9-1-1), growing community needs and demands, increasing complexity of crime and the commitment to community safety
  • Investing $38 million for enhancements and state of good repair for ambulances, other paramedic fleet, and ambulance equipment
  • Adding 40 paramedics to support a growing and aging population, increased call volumes, and to manage system pressures
  • Investing $203.9 million in capital for state of good repair for Peel Living, Community Housing Providers loans, and Peel owned shelters and buildings
  • Continuing to implement the Peel Community Housing Development Program with a capital investment of $16.5 million
  • Ensuring safe and sustainable wraparound care at the Seniors Health and Wellness Village at Peel Manor with a $3.3 million investment
  • Investments of $23 million for installation and upgrades of boilers, air conditioners, and HVAC systems at Sheridan Villa and Malton Village, and $2.5 million for tub and shower renovations at Tall Pines, and Malton Village
  • A capital investment of $341.3 million for road construction, intersection improvements, and active transportation
  • Coordinating a systems response to increased immigration and refugees in Peel and advocating for resources and greater coordination for Anti-Human Sex Trafficking supports
  • Protecting residents from environmental hazards through programs and urgent response plans, and catching up on routine school immunization, and record screening and enforcement of the Immunization of School Pupils Act, 1990

More information is available at peelregion.ca/budget.