$17 million from feds will help dramatically transform waterfront in Mississauga: City

Plans to dramatically improve Mississauga’s waterfront trail system took a big step forward today with official word that Ottawa will give $17 million to the massive undertaking.

Combined with $12 million from City of Mississauga coffers under an Active Transportation Fund agreement between the two levels of government, the money will pay to expand and enhance trail connections along Mississauga’s eastern shoreline close to and where it meets Toronto, the city says.

Specifically, according to the city, Ottawa and Credit Valley Conservation officials, the funding will support two major projects:

• the Mississauga Waterfront/Trans Canada Trail
• the Jim Tovey Lakeview Conservation Area trail that’s owned and operated by CVC. (The new 64-acre conservation area, named for the late city councillor, is expected to be an environmental “gem” when it opens to the public two years from now, the city has said)

“Today’s announcement turns a long-held vision of a vibrant, accessible waterfront into a reality,” Mississauga-Lakeshore MP Charles Sousa said in a news release issued by the City of Mississauga Friday afternoon. “This shoreline trail will provide a year-round connection between Mississauga and Toronto, and an outdoor space that promotes active living.”

Sousa, on hand at the lunchtime announcement at the Small Arms Inspection Building on Lakeshore Road East on behalf of federal Housing Minister Sean Fraser, added that Ottawa is “committed to helping communities develop the infrastructure they need while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“By investing in a trail network in the redeveloped and restored Lakeview community and Jim Tovey Lakeview Conservation Area, we are creating a healthier, sustainable environment for everyone to enjoy.”

Photo shows Mississauga’s waterfront area in the eastern part of the city as it currently appears. It contrasts with the planned vision for the area shown in the cover photo. (Photo: City of Mississauga)

Acting Mayor and Ward 3 Coun. Chris Fonseca, Ward 1 Coun. Stephen Dasko and CVC members were also on hand for the funding announcement.

“Investing in active transportation is an investment in the health, well-being and future of Mississauga,” said Fonseca. “By prioritizing walking and cycling infrastructure, we create safer streets, reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and promote a more connected, vibrant and sustainable city. It’s an investment in our residents’ quality of life, our environment and the long-term economic vitality of our city.”

Officials note that Mississauga’s Waterfront/Trans Canada Trail will provide key trail connections to destination parks within the developing community of Lakeview Village.

It will also connect to Lakefront Promenade Park to the west and the Jim Tovey Lakeview Conservation Area to the east, they add.

Highlights of the project include:

• development of more than 2.5 kilometres of paved, lit cycling and pedestrian trails to close the gap in the Trans Canada Trail and Regional Waterfront Trail systems
• bridge connection to allow safe crossing for cyclists and pedestrians
• development of community recreation and tourism connections that include access to the Western Pier and the Jim Tovey Lakeview Conservation Area
• rest stations with washrooms
• bicycle parking areas along with bench and bike repair station facilities

“Active transportation is about all forms of movement. So along with the transit services and smart traffic management systems we are implementing in Mississauga, we also need to ensure we are planning for and building robust cycling and pedestrian networks that are safe, comfortable, connected and convenient,” said Mississauga City Manager Shari Lichterman.

Map shows the Trans Canada Trail as it makes its way from coast to coast.