Construction is scheduled to resume on Monday, May 11 on Canada Drive, from Hamlyn Road to Cowan Avenue. Impacts could include concrete/street excavation, concrete work, paving, ditch cleaning and culvert installation. Commuters may experience traffic delays in the area. Pedestrian access will be maintained and/or alternate routes provided. Work expected to conclude by the end of 2026.

Description

Canada Drive is being reconstructed to add a shared-use path (SUP) along the south side of the street between Columbus Drive and Cowan Heights Elementary school to help create a cycling backbone network.

This work is being completed alongside the City's annual street rehabilitation program to reduce overall cost and avoid future tear up.

Background

Council approved the Bike Master Plan in 2019. Its vision is to create “a safe, inclusive, and convenient cycling network that is well-connected, attractive and reflective of the City’s unique topography and climate. As part of an integrated mobility network, this is supported by policies and programs that promote a cycling friendly culture.”

Canada Drive, from Columbus Drive to the Team Gushue Highway (approximately civic address 243 Canada Dr.), is part of the backbone cycling network as outlined in the Bike St. John's Master Plan. Adding a shared-use path in this area will improve connections for people walking, rolling, and cycling, while also enhancing road safety by narrowing traffic lanes and helping reduce vehicle speeds.

Public Engagement

In 2022, public engagement occurred to determine the desired direction from local residents. Two street options were considered during public engagement:

• Option 1 - Bi-directional bike path on one side of the street, sidewalks on both sides of the street, parking allowed on south side only (odd numbered houses)
• Option 2 - Shared Use Path (SUP) on one side, sidewalk on the other side, parking allowed on both sides

The preferred option was a shared-use path with on-street parking on both sides of the street. At the Committee of the Whole meeting in Dec. 2022, Council approved staff's recommendation to construct the shared use path on the south side of the street.