Guelph improving active transportation network and expanding urban forest canopy

Ontario Construction News staff writer

Three projects expected to improve community and municipal infrastructure in Guelph have received funding from the province and federal government.

More than $900,000 in funding will be used to enhance the area’s Active Transportation Network on College Avenue and Hanlon Creek Boulevard, and to increase the community’s urban forest canopy.

The Government of Canada is contributing $756,129 and the province will add $189,032 to the  projects.

“People are biking, walking, and seeking out nature more than ever before,” said Mayor Cam Guthrie. “These investments in Guelph’s active transportation network and tree canopy will have lasting positive benefits for our city, long after COVID-19 is in the rear view mirror. We are grateful to the Governments of Canada and Ontario for investing in municipal infrastructure.”

Funding will be used to improve a road crossing of the active transportation network and to construct a multi-use path in the Hanlon Creek Business Park. Work will improve transportation connectivity of Guelph’s growing active transportation network provides attractive, affordable and reasonable transportation options for everyone. When complete, the active transportation network will include more than 50 km of off-road trails and paths.

Money will also be used to increase the urban forest canopy and enhance the ecosystem through afforestation in recently developed areas. The tree planting project will help the City achieve its climate adaptation plan as it works to protect and sustain the environment.

“The health and wellbeing of our community is always top of mind for us as we plan, build and maintain our infrastructure,” Scott Stewart, chief administrative officer, City of Guelph. “This investment by both the federal and provincial governments recognizes the needs of our community today, and ensures we can recover from COVID-19, despite the challenges.”

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