West-end link added to city’s cycling network
http://www.thespec.com/news/local/ar...ycling-network
A trail is opening this week in the west end, providing both safer options for cyclists and the vision of a future cycling network spread across town.
The 1.8-kilometre trail, a $1.95-million project that’s part of the city’s Shifting Gears Cycling Plan, starts just west of Leland Street, will cross over the 403 and connect to Studholme Road by Chedoke Golf Course.
“I think the CP rail trail is a great sign of the city showing commitment to the bike plan,” said Andrea Kita, chair of the Hamilton Cycling Committee, a volunteer group dedicated to improving cycling in the city.
“It’s a multiyear plan which can be done sooner rather than later if there’s continued investment,” she said. “I think it’s important for the cycling master plan to be a priority for each ward.”
Ward 1 Councillor Brian McHattie said the trail is paved to offer greater accessibility and, since it is designed to be a year round pathway, will have snow removed in the winter.
McHattie said many local residents would use the Canadian Pacific Railway line as a trail illegally so it already served as a natural passageway.
“It was identified in the cycling plan as a connection that makes sense,” he said.