Earlier this year, the Town of New Tecumseth completed work on a 350-metre paved trail along the Boyne River in Alliston. It starts at the pedestrian bridge behind Victoria Street and ends at the Rotary Pool and splash pad. The trail used to be a narrow footpath along the water’s edge. It is separated from the road and features signage, streetlights, benches, and garbage/recycling bins. Anyone who has walked or cycled along Fletcher Street will appreciate how convenient and safe this path is in comparison to the narrow sidewalk by the hospital, where cars often drive too fast.
I used the trail for two weeks straight this summer to get my son to his swimming lessons at the Rotary Pool. In past years if I didn’t want to drive, I either had to brave King Street or Fletcher Street – not exactly roads built for pedestrians or cyclists, and stressful with a small child in tow. This trail encouraged me to leave my car at home for these trips, because while brief, it is incredibly pleasant to use. It’s a relief to cycle and not be looking over your shoulder for traffic, and to be gazing at trees and the river rather than cars and parking lots. Trails that are not only safe, but quiet and enjoyable will encourage people to get out and about. I’m very hopeful that as New Tecumseth grows in population, the Town has plans to improve other existing trails in our towns and to create new ones too, in order to encourage other means of getting around town.
Have you used the Riverdale trail yet? What did you think?
Janice
2023-02-22 — 8:07 pm
I have walked this trail a number of times, while it was under construction and after it was finished. It is a lovely trail, which could be improved somewhat with a bit of tree trimming which would allow better views of the river. I wonder what the chances are of the installation of a picnic table or two which would allow us to have lunch near the river – a dream I’ve had ever since I moved here? Or is the potential garbage too much of a problem?