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City trail system sees usage increase in 2011
Fredericton (January 12, 2012) - Fredericton residents made the most of the city’s trail system in 2011 thanks to great fall weather and the unexpected longer closure of the Princess Margaret Bridge.
The city’s Park and Trees Division announced today at the monthly Community Services meeting that a substantial increase as high as 47% was observed in September 2011. Overall the trail system saw an increase of 9% usage compared to 2010 during its active season from May 5 to October 10, 2011.
The Trail Visitor Center (TVC), located at 180 Station Road adjacent to Nashwaak Trail, at the north-end of the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, recorded its best month for trail usage during the month of June with 25,034 users, over 3,800 more than was recorded in 2010.
Trail usage was accessed by approximately 53% pedestrians, 45% bikers and 2% skaters, (boards/ blades.) It is also used by many active city organizations including; the Nordic Walking Group, Moms on the Move, Wednesday Walk with Mayor Woodside and the Fredericton Trail Coalition. The trails system also hosts a number of yearly events such as the Fredericton Marathon, the Duncan Hadley Relay, Folks on Spokes, the Terry Fox Run, Int’l Trails Day and Trail Mix.
“The city’s trail network has proved itself as a key transportation link during seasonal road work and has become a significant recreation resource,” said Coun. Steven Hicks, Chair of the City’s Community Services Committee. “It’s great to see residents and tourists taking advantage and enjoying this important asset.”
Fredericton has in excess of 80 km's of non-motorized multi use trails, which are accessible to pedestrians, non-emission mobility assisted devices (i.e., motorized wheelchairs) for the mobility challenged and cyclists. During the winter months, the majority of paved section is kept clear of snow while other trails are groomed for cross-country skiers, snowshoers and walkers.
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Media Contact: Jean Bertin, Communications Officer, City of Fredericton, 506-460-2721
