DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard
KAWARTHA LAKES: At a City of Kawartha Lakes (CKL) Council meeting, on Tuesday, March 4th, Ryan Smith, Manager of Parks and Recreation, provided an annual update on the CKL trails system, highlighting the significant work completed in 2024, and laying out plans for the year ahead. This update also covered the ongoing implementation of the 2023 Trails Master Plan Update (TMPU).
According to Mr. Smith, the 2024 trail initiatives included several resurfacing projects in Burnt River, Kinmount, and between Fenelon Falls to the Rancher’s Road intersection.
"The improvements we made this year were crucial in enhancing both the safety and accessibility of our trails," Ryan said. "We resurfaced sections, installed new signage, and rehabilitated pedestrian bridges along the Dunsford Nature Trail, contributing to the overall sustainability of our trail network."
The total investment for the trails system in 2024 was significant. $173,205.89 was allocated from municipal operations accounts and an additional $24,186.68 was spent on capital projects. These funds supported various upgrades, such as resurfacing, signage installations, and bridge rehabilitation.
Mr. Smith emphasized these efforts align with the City’s vision of promoting a "healthy and natural environment," as outlined in the CKL Strategic Plan. "Our trails are vital for fostering vibrant, healthy communities, and these upgrades reflect our ongoing commitment to that vision," he noted.
The year 2024 also saw notable staffing changes within the trails team, including the creation of a new full-time Supervisor position and the addition of a Labourer position, dedicated solely to trails operations.
"Having more staff allows us to devote more resources to maintaining the trails and addressing the needs of our growing community," Mr. Smith added.
On the equipment front, the trails team expanded its capabilities, with the addition of a new tractor and rotary disk mower, allowing for better trail surface maintenance and repairs. Additionally, a side-by-side Recreational Off-Road Vehicle was acquired, to assist in trail inspections and other maintenance tasks.
Maintenance work, in 2024, included addressing unexpected issues, such as, a significant washout on the Victoria Rail Trail (VRT), north of Crego Creek Bridge. Mr. Smith explained, "The washout was a major challenge, but we took swift action to mitigate erosion and ensure the trail remained accessible and safe."
Several capital projects were also underway, such as the ongoing upgrades at the Emily Forest Tract and the development of a new trailhead, at the intersection of Angeline Street North and Thunder Bridge Road. "These projects will enhance the overall experience for trail users and provide better access to some of our most popular trails," the Manager of Parks and Recreation added.
Looking ahead to 2025, Mr. Smith outlined several key initiatives, including: trail brushing, from Thunder Bridge Road to Fenelon Falls; a resurfacing project, for parts of the VRT; and the paving of two key linking trails, between Logie Street and the Rotary Trail. "These upgrades will improve accessibility and contribute to a more cohesive and user-friendly trail system," he said.
A major project on the horizon is the creation of new trails, through the Jennings Creek passive parkland area which will provide a new link in the Lindsay Trail System. "This project will be instrumental in connecting more areas of the City to the trail network, making it even more accessible for residents," Mr. Smith remarked.
As part of the TMPU, Mr. Smith also highlighted the ongoing development of an agreement with the Kawartha ATV Association (KATVA) which will formalize responsibilities related to trail maintenance, inspections, and community outreach. "KATVA has been an important partner, supporting our trails, and this agreement will help strengthen that relationship moving forward," he said.
The City is also exploring potential funding opportunities to support future trail projects. "Hydro One offers a funding opportunity which could help us move forward, with a lighting project, at the Iron Bridge in Lindsay," Mr. Smith explained. "Additionally, RTO8 [Regional Tourism Organization 8] has shown interest in funding our upcoming signage initiatives."
Mr. Smith closed the presentation with a look at the future of trail maintenance. "We are committed to continuous improvement, not only in the physical condition of our trails but also in how we engage with the community and ensure the safety of our users," he said. "2025 will be another year of progress, as we continue to make the CKL trail system one of the best in the region."
This comprehensive update underscores the City's dedication to maintaining a thriving trail network which serves as a cornerstone for healthy, sustainable living in the Kawartha Lakes.
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