
P-BAC Looks to City Council to Restore Major Transportation Artery
Media Release
November 24, 2011
After the closure of a busy downtown pedestrian/cycling bridge, the Peterborough Bicycle Advisory Committee (P-BAC) is reaching out to local pedestrians and cyclists to raise both awareness and support for priority solutions.
“We would like to see this issue receive the same attention and urgency that the closure of an automobile crossing would,” explains Donald Fraser, P-BAC Chair.
The bridge, affixed to the CP Rail crossing, represents the only convenient East/West cycling route south of Hunter Street – an area that hosts a large residential population as well substantial commercial and industrial areas.
“This is an essential route that people use for daily work commutes,” says Fraser. “For a good segment of the Peterborough population, this is the main route downtown. For others it is the only safe eastbound access point for the industrial areas in the south-east portion of the city.”
The bridge is the main route to Beavermead Park, Rogers Cove, Ecology Park, the Trans-Canada trail, as well as large residential neighbourhoods. It also a major access point to downtown shopping districts and residential areas.
“We’re talking about a major artery for cycling and pedestrian traffic,” notes Fraser. “And only one of three crossings in the City where cycling traffic isn’t mixed with vehicle traffic. For people who struggle with the traffic speed and congestion of Hunter and Lansdowne Streets, this represents the closure of their only safe cycling route.”
There are fears that the closing of the walkway will lead to an increase in foot and bike traffic on the rail portion of the bridge – something that P-BAC believes should be a concern to both CP Rail and the City.
P-BAC is requesting that the priority of replacement/repair be the same as for driving infrastructure.
“If, for instance, one of the three city vehicle crossings of the Otonabee were closed, there would likely be immediate deliberation on a solution and rapid action,” notes Fraser. “Similarly, when the vehicle bridge to the Edgewater neighbourhood was closed, immediate action was taken, despite the fact that there was an alternate route made available to this small neighbourhood.”
The group recognizes that a solution will require concerted effort on the part of both CP Rail and the City.
“It is our understanding that budget planning for 2012 is currently underway and that there are already some funds earmarked for bridge repair/rehabilitation. With the unplanned closing of the bridge, we recommend making room in the budget for a 2012 capital project to get the walkway rebuilt and/or making a recommendation to Utility Services that they use emergency funds to replace the walkway in 2012. We know this will take close work with CP, but believe that Council and Staff are up to the task.”
The group is suggesting that local residents contact their local leaders to voice concerns.
“The best way to make this a priority is to let City Council and Staff know that it is a priority for you, your colleagues, your friends, and your family,” says Fraser. “Contact your Ward Councilor. Contact the Mayor. And spread word to people that are affected by the closure.”
P-BAC is comprised of dedicated transportation sector stakeholders representing a number of organizations that have cycling and pedestrian issues as part of their mandate, including: the City of Peterborough, the County-City Health Unit, Peterborough Lakefield Community Police Services, Peterborough Green-Up, Active and Safe Routes to School, Active and Safe Community Routes, the Peterborough Cycling Club, and The Peterborough Community Bike Shop.