Huntsville is looking at entering into an agreement with a resident to create a walkway along Highway 60 and improve active transportation in the zone.
According to the report presented by staff, Highway 60 separates a housing development from businesses, services and other amenities, creating an increasing need to build a safe environment for pedestrians.
“One particular concern is the safety of pedestrians, especially during the winter months, walking along and crossing Highway 60,” the report reads.
“While there are paved shoulders adjacent to the travelled portion of Highway 60, there are no sidewalks or safe pedestrian walkways. This lack of safe walkways essentially separates residents living north of Highway 60 from accessing the majority of town amenities.”
The report adds, in some cases, pedestrians are forced to cross the highway unsafely, risking their well-being.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
“(This walkway) is an interim solution, with guidance from council members, to improve the linkage between the north and south, allowing pedestrians safer passage when walking,” the report reads.
This proposed walkway would be temporary and intended to work for the 2023-2024 winter season.
The total operating costs are estimated to be more than $25,000. Nevertheless, the report notes cost estimates are heavily dependent on the weather, including the frequency of winter events.
WHAT DID COUNCIL SAY?
Although there was no lengthy discussion around the table, Coun. Scott Morrison said joint work is vital to addressing issues like this.
“This is an example of staff and council responding to a huge need and coming up with a very good solution,” said Morrison.
Besides the proposed walkway, the council directed staff to work with the Ministry of Transportation, the District Municipality of Muskoka and other partners to identify a more permanent solution to connect the town’s active transportation routes in the area.
