Re: EBR Registry number 013…

Re: EBR Registry number 013-0190 for Province-wide Cycling Network Policy - Public Consultation

Thank you for the opportunity to provide consultation comments.

The criteria outlined in the public consultation description doc states; "As part of the plan, the province has committed to identify a province-wide network of cycling routes that will: Promote recreational cycling and cycling tourism; Connect municipal cycling routes and places of interest; Identify areas of provincial infrastructure that should accommodate cycling; and, Prioritize future cycling infrastructure investments on provincial highways. In Ontario, most cycling routes were developed by municipalities and various local, regional and national organizations (e.g. Waterfront Trail, Trans Canada Trail, etc.). These routes meet local cycling needs and also support increased cycling tourism".

The comments here refer to the Draft Province Wide Cycling description and map in a specific section. The existing route in east Parry Sound District, (recognized as the Almaguin Highlands marketing region) runs through Perry, McMurrich-Monteith townships west into Sequin, and utilizes MTO Hwy 518 W., which parallels parts of the Trans Canada Trail. It appears that the old Nippissing Colonization Road is partially included.

A major concern for this existing proposed route is the site lines on 518 West of Sprucedale through to Orville. They are dangerous. There have been multiple accidents involving motorcycles treating this section as a racetrack. Truck traffic also tends to speed through these areas, despite its many blind corners. This section would require substantial upgrades and paved shoulders to accommodate cycling. Focused investment toward improvements of the Trans Canada trail here would be prudent, given its condition.

The area does have historical points and heritage interest; the old Booth Railway line, and the original colonization road opening the area to settlement, circa 1870's to name just two. .

[Original Comment ID: 209408]