Upgrades to Oakville trail will make it safer, more accessible

The Crosstown Trail in Oakville is getting an upgrade that will help improve its safety and accessibility.

The federal government announced Tuesday afternoon (July 11) it was providing $1 million to improve the nearly 60 kilometres of heritage trails, which run runs east to west along the natural gas pipeline between Upper Middle Rd. and Dundas St., from Bronte Creek Provincial Park to Ninth Line.

The Government of Canada is investing $1,180,200 in this project through the Active Transportation Fund (ATF), and the Town of Oakville is contributing $796,800.

The money will be used to widen and pave a four kilometre section of the Crosstown Trail from Khalsa Gate to Sixteen Mile Creek along with installing pedestrian crossings at all railway crossings to ensure better safety.

New signage will also help users navigate the trail, while new rest areas with accessible benches and bike racks will also be added.

“Investing in active transportation infrastructure is vital to ensuring residents have safe and modern ways to travel,” said Pam Damoff, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety and Oakville North-Burlington MP on behalf of the Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities

“I have proudly been advocating for active transportation infrastructure since my time on Oakville Town Council. The upgrades to the Oakville Crosstown Trail will make it easier for residents to gather, be active, and enjoy travelling within and exploring the community. Investments like this make our communities better places to live, work and play.”

The improvements to the local trail are being made to help promote healthy lifestyles and physical activity within the community by offering residents a safe alternative to walk, bike or roll to their destinations.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with our federal partners and fund upgrades to the Crosstown Trail,” said Oakville Mayor Rob Burton.  “Residents tell us that Oakville’s trails, parks and green spaces are important parts of what makes this town so livable and vibrant.

“With these improvements, the upgraded Crosstown Trail will promote active lifestyles, and offer safe and accessible routes for residents and visitors to their destinations.”

Funding announced today contributes to Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy by supporting activities that will help expand networks of pathways, bike lanes, trails and pedestrian bridges.

“The ATF-1550-Crosstown Trail promotes sustainable transportation and healthy living in our communities. In creating new, public active spaces, this trail supports community building and encourages residents to enjoy the beautiful nature scene that Oakville has to offer,” said Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence and Oakville MP.