The City’s draft Community Trails Strategy (CTS) will be presented at a second open house on January 13 from 7-8 p.m. via a Zoom webinar.

The CTS enhances connectivity and accessibility of both on and off-road trails initiatives that the City and its partners have previously undertaken. In addition, the project aims to identify opportunities for several types of trails and active transportation trips, including commuting, recreation, fitness, and touring.

“Given the growth the city will experience in the next few decades, now is the exact time to finalize a community trails strategy to guide us into the future,” said Rob Axiak, director of community services. “With a shift toward more active communities and creating spaces for people to walk, run, hike, and bike, this strategy is about as important as anything else going on right now.”

Creating an active future for Welland provides options for healthy, active living and more ways to reduce traffic, save money, improve local air quality, support local economies, and make travel easier and safer for those who can’t drive, especially children.

Additionally, active transportation and trails support energetic lifestyles, improve physical and mental health, and protect the environment.

The project will also aim to provide on and off-road connectivity to popular destinations within Welland and the surrounding area, including regional and provincial trails networks.

Those wishing to participate can register to receive reminders about the event the day before and one hour before the session begins.

Anyone looking to learn more can find more information about the project’s timeline and work completed up to this point on EnagageWelland.