Town cycles through bike path debate
By Chris Simon

Several bike paths could be built along arterial and collector roads, including the 25th Sideroad, according to a town committee report.

That committee has recommended the installation of bicycle lanes on all new arterial and collector roads - including the 25th Sideroad between Innisfil Beach and Big Bay Point roads - be considered as part of any future construction projects, said planning and development director Rob McAuley in a report.

According to the report, bike paths could be included in the proposed $18 million reconstruction of a 12 kilometres stretch of the 25th.

During that reconstruction, the road would be widened enough to easily accommodate bike paths, he said.

"The majority of the roadway along the 25th could have bicycle lanes installed on both sides," said McAuley.

"As the installation of lanes is not within the current capital budget, staff are not recommending their installation at this time; they should be included in any future reconstruction."

Council could also consider the temporary installation of a two metre strip of bike path along both sides of the road for at least $2.3 million.

However, that solution could also require ditch realignment, culvert and storm sewer installation and the purchasing of private land, he said.

"A more temporary solution would involve paving a two metre strip from edge of pavement, thus removing the granular shoulders," said McAuley.

"Some areas may require additional modifications ... increasing costs."

Councillor Dan Davidson wants to see the 25th become safer for families to use.

"As Big Bay Point is developed in the future, we should make it more user friendly other than car friendly," he said. "A lot of kids would be working at the resort, and it's a great way for them to transport back and forth."

While the costs for installing paths are expensive, they would serve a valuable purpose, said councillor Lynn Dollin.

"We don't want unrealistic expectations, you look at the prices along this one road and you understand," she said.

"(But) this is a great vision to have."