COBDEN — Grants Settlement Road, from La Passe Road to Powers Road, will get double surface treatment and will be widened to allow for active transportation lanes on either side.
Ron Moss and Pat Krose, from Ottawa Valley Cycling Active Transportation Association (OVCATA), spoke to the public works committee about Grants Settlement Road, since it is now under reconstruction.
Mr. Moss said many people cycle Grants Settlement Road because it has great terrain and commercial establishments, such as the Whitewater Brewery. The rafting people also use the road to transport people and equipment, he said.
“This road is quite busy at times and cyclists are concerned for their safety,” he said.
He questioned if a 1.2 to 1.5 metre lane could be added on either side of the main portion of the road to allow for active transportation, such as those who cycle, rollerblade, ride horses and walk.
If the shoulders are not paved, he said motor vehicles must slow down if they are coming upon cyclists and wait for any traffic coming in the opposite direction before they can be passed.
“We are asking Whitewater Region to enhance the roadway by extending the shoulder,” Mr. Moss said. “This would allow for more space for cyclists.”
Following this committee meeting, public works manager Bill Misener spoke about the same issue at the council meeting.
Knowing Mr. Moss was attending the committee meeting, Mr. Misener was prepared to talk about double surface treating Grants Settlement Road, as well as the shoulders.
“The double surface (treatment) is enough for active transportation,” he said.
Councillor Daryl McLaughlin questioned if the active transportation lanes could be paved while the roadway could be double-surface treated.
Mr. Misener said there would be a good chance of the different road surfaces separating over the years.
Councillor Dave Mackay suggested double surface the far end of Grants Settlement Road (where the work is currently being done) and then paving the end closer to the Kerr Line.
It was also agreed that financial assistance will be required if more roads within the municipality, such as Government Road, will have active transportation lanes, Coun. McLaughlin said.
Mr. Misener said if enough funding is found, paving one end of Grants Settlement Road could be a reality.
Council agreed Mr. Misener can begin work on this project and that lines will be painted to distinguish the active transportation lanes next year.
