City of Brantford received $50,000 in funding from the Government of Canada to support development of the Active Transportation Master Plan on Monday, March 25, 2024.
The Active Transportation Master Plan, which was unanimously approved by Brantford City Council last fall, outlines the blueprint for developing an integrated cycling and pedestrian network throughout Brantford over the next ten to 15 years.
In support of Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy, the Government of Canada launched the Active Transportation Fund (ATF), to make travel by active transportation easier, safer, more convenient and more enjoyable. The Active Transportation Fund, which started in 2021, invests in projects that build new and expanded networks of pathways, bike lanes, trails and pedestrian bridges, in addition to supporting active transportation planning and public engagement.
To educate and continue to engage the community, the City has also allocated funding for an Active Transportation in Brantford video series that will launch on all of the City’s digital platforms in April 2024.
In addition to the video series, the City is beginning to implement actions that were identified in the Active Transportation Master Plan. In 2024, the top ranking active transportation facility, Wayne Gretzky Parkway Multi-Use Trail, will be enhanced at signalized intersections to improve safety and operations for active transportation users.
As announced by Infrastructure Canada in a news release, Brantford’s project is one of 50 active transportation planning and design projects across Ontario with investments of more than $2.3 million that the government is supporting through Infrastructure Canada’s Active Transportation Fund.
“I am so excited to announce the federal government’s support for 50 planning and design projects that will lead to more and improved active transportation infrastructure across Ontario,” said the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “Investments in active transportation are a key part of building strong, connected and sustainable communities. Bike paths, sidewalks, footbridges and multi-use trails connect our homes to our communities and beyond, helping to make them the best places to live.”
“Brantford is committed to prioritizing active transportation as we build stronger, healthier, and more connected communities,” said Kevin Davis, Mayor for the City of Brantford. “With the support of the Government of Canada, we are laying the groundwork for a vibrant cycling and pedestrian network that will benefit our residents for generations to come.”
“We’re grateful to Infrastructure Canada for their support of this important initiative,” added David Ferguson, Manager of Traffic Services for the City of Brantford. “By prioritizing active transportation, the City will achieve a number of objectives including, mitigating traffic congestion, improving air quality, and promoting healthier lifestyles.”
