Today, the City of Pickering, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), and Trans Canada Trail (TCT) were joined by community members to celebrate the reopening of Pickering’s popular Waterfront Trail at Bruce Handscomb Memorial Park.
The trail, originally constructed in the 1960s, was narrow, steep, and posed significant sightline issues, ultimately resulting in safety and accessibility concerns for the portion between the north side of Bruce Handscomb Memorial Park and Elvira Court. In recent years, the area has also faced severe erosion due to environmental conditions.
In an effort to resolve the safety issues and restore the area, the trail was closed from winter 2023 to spring 2024 for reconstruction. The revitalized space now boasts several improvements, including:
- 120 metres of new 3-metre-wide accessible asphalt path
- Two precast concrete retaining walls
- Upgraded pathway lighting
- Erosion management controls along the trail edge
- Tactile indicator plates, aiding individuals with visual impairments in transitioning between the sidewalk and city street
- Planting of native trees and shrubs
The total cost of the project was approximately $765,000 and included a $150,000 grant from TCT and a $31,000 contribution from TRCA.
Project costs included the new trail design, construction, restoration works, and slope stabilization/erosion repair.
Quotes:
“Pickering’s waterfront is the shimmering jewel of our city, enjoyed by thousands of residents and visitors each year. These remarkable enhancements reaffirm our collective commitment to creating accessible, safe, and vibrant outdoor spaces for generations to experience. On behalf of the City of Pickering, I extend heartfelt gratitude to the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and Trans Canada Trail for their generous support of these restoration efforts, safeguarding our shared outdoor spaces and enriching community well-being.”
– Mayor Kevin Ashe, City of Pickering
