Richmond Hill is a vibrant and growing city, but for its young residents—teens and tweens—finding affordable and accessible places to hang out, make friends, and stay active is becoming increasingly difficult. Many city-run recreational programs fill up quickly and are often too expensive for some families, leaving limited options for youth to engage in structured activities. At the same time, private gyms, entertainment centers, and other venues come with high price tags that make them inaccessible for many teens and tweens. This lack of affordable social spaces is contributing to frustration, social isolation, and a decline in physical activity among the city’s youth.

One of the biggest challenges young people in Richmond Hill face is simply getting to the places where they want to go. Not all recreational centers or hangout spots are easily accessible by public transit, and many locations are not within walking distance. Without reliable and affordable transportation, many teens are left with few options outside of visiting the local shopping mall or fast food restaurants—places that may not always provide opportunities to meet peers their own age or participate in meaningful activities.

The lack of accessible and affordable social spaces is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a growing issue that could have long-term consequences for the well-being of young people in Richmond Hill. Adolescence is a crucial time for social development, physical fitness, and personal growth. Without places to interact, exercise, and build friendships, youth may experience increased feelings of isolation and disengagement from their community.

To address this issue, Richmond Hill needs to prioritize the development of walkable communities with more accessible and budget-friendly youth programs. Expanding community centers with a wider range of affordable recreational activities, ensuring these facilities are distributed throughout the city, and improving transit options to these venues would go a long way in supporting young people. The city must recognize that investing in youth infrastructure is not just a short-term fix but a long-term investment in a thriving, connected, and healthy community.

If Richmond Hill fails to address these challenges, the consequences could be far-reaching. Without adequate spaces for young people to gather and grow, the city may see rising levels of disengagement, increased mental health struggles, and a diminished sense of community among its youth. Now is the time for city leaders to take action and ensure that all young residents have the opportunity to connect, thrive, and find their place in Richmond Hill.