Active Transportation Project Expands Recreation Options in Thunder Bay

The City of Thunder Bay reconstructed multiple sections of its Parkdale, Academy Park, and Mission Island trails in 2024.

The City invested more than $350,000 in CCBF funding to upgrade safety, accessibility, and comfort of the trails.

Each trail supports growth in the city as additional connections were made to parks and recently developed subdivisions.

Approximately 500 meters of the Parkdale trail was fully reconstructed to address the deteriorated existing surface. The new smooth surface is safer and more comfortable for users, as well as more accessible for bikes, wheelchairs, strollers, and more.

A 30-metre section of the Academy trail was also reconstructed with better grading that resolved accessibility challenges and now complies with standards. This ensures a more inclusive and user-friendly environment for all residents.

The Mission Island trail is a new trail that was able to be built with this investment from the city, adding 1.6km to the active transportation network. This contributes to the city’s Waterfront trail network, both increasing recreation opportunities and linking to the Mission Marsh Conservation Area.

Each trail’s development strengthens overall connectivity of the active transportation network around the city, providing enhanced access for residents and visitors.