Cost sharing for improvements of cycling and pedestrian links at Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) overpasses

completed

Design: The current design of urban highway overpasses and the linkages leading to them represent barriers to cyclists who will not use mixed road facilities, and are also considered unpleasant crossings by pedestrians. By improving the safety and comfort of these connections, active transportation rates will increase across major barriers such as the 417. The new design being explored places the crash barrier on the bridge crossings over the 417 between motor traffic and vulnerable road users (i.e. cyclists and pedestrians), incorporates improved crossings of highway ramps, and plans to connect these new facilities into the adjacent communities. The improved design treatment will be applied to several Highway 417 overpasses across the City, including the following locations. At the Maitland Ave overpass, the improved design will enhance cycling and pedestrian connections between the residences and businesses south of Highway 417 and transit service along Carling Ave. Similarly, at the Richmond Rd, Pinecrest Rd and Woodroffe Ave overpasses, the improved design will enhance cycling and pedestrian connections between the residences and businesses located south on both sides of Highway 417 and the future light rail transit stations on the north side of Highway 417.