City of Brantford will keep the D’Aubigny Creek trail access and Ballantyne Drive boat launch closed until early October.
According to Christian Bean, Manager of Construction for the City of Brantford, the closure is part of the $955,000 shoreline stabilization project.
“The City of Brantford is completing a number of improvements at the Ballantyne Drive boat launch and D’Aubigny trail access, including stabilization of the D’Aubigny Creek and Grand River shorelines, construction of a formal non-motorized watercraft launch, repairs and paving of the parking lot, improvements to and widening of the entrance driveway, and updated signage,” said Bean.
The project is expected to cost $955,000 with $855,000 coming from the city’s capital reserve, and an additional $100,000 in a grant from the Brant Waterways Foundation.
The work, which was expected to be completed by the end of the summer is now targeted for early October, and that could still shift depending on weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances.
“This timeline reflects the complexity of the work and the environmentally sensitive nature of the site and remains subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen conditions,” said Bean.
City staff have received comments from residents regarding the trail and river access point closure. The closure has gained some attention online, where residents discussed if it could be done later and whether the improvements were needed.
“We have received feedback regarding the closure, with most comments focused on the nature of the improvements and when the site is expected to re-open,” said Bean. “We appreciate the community’s interest in the project and look forward to re-opening the area once the work is complete.”
The Ballantyne Drive boat launch and D’Augbiny trail are popular among the residents who enjoy kayaking, canoeing and paddle boating. The site has been closed since Monday, August 10, 2026 and the City of Brantford has not yet indicated if there will be partial or interim access before the full re-opening in October, 2026.
