SUMMERSIDE, PE - The City of Summerside is excited to announce the expansion of its active transportation network, with construction beginning on September 16th, 2024, to add new bike lanes along Pope Road. This project, part of the City’s 2024 budget, is a major investment in providing safer, greener transportation options for residents and visitors.
The bike lane construction on Pope Road will be completed in two phases. Phase 1 will extend from Central Street to Greenwood Drive, and Phase 2 will continue from Greenwood Drive to South Drive. Once completed, the 1.9-kilometer route will connect cyclists from South Drive all the way to Central Street, making Pope Road a cyclist-friendly corridor.
“The City is committed to creating safe and accessible routes for all modes of transportation,” said Mayor Dan Kutcher of the City of Summerside. “This expansion builds on the success of our Greenwood Drive project and represents our ongoing dedication to active living and sustainable transportation options.”
Previously, the City completed a separate active transportation lane along most of Greenwood Drive, offering bikers and hikers a safe and convenient path from Pope Road to Water Street. The new bike lanes along Pope Road will enhance this network, creating a safer and more connected route for cyclists throughout the city.
The total cost of the project is $1.3 million, with funding shared between the City of Summerside and the Province of Prince Edward Island. Summerside’s portion will be drawn from the 2024 budget.
Key features of the project include:
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An asphalt pathway on the south side of Pope Road.
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Pavement markings and 8 shared-use pathway signs.
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Pedestrian signal head curbing for enhanced safety.
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New traffic lights at the intersection of Greenwood Drive and Pope Road."
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“I am extremely proud of the Government of Prince Edward Island Island’s continued investment in Summerside. This is an exciting development for Summerside, that was achieved in partnership with the Province’s Active Transportation Fund,” said Hon. Barb Ramsay, Minister of Social Development and Seniors. “Summerside is becoming a national leader in green energy. Active transportation is another component to Summerside’s successful leadership and this new route pairs well with the City’s plans for the future.”
The project is scheduled to be completed by November 30th, 2024. These upgrades will not only encourage more cycling and walking within Summerside but also contribute to the City’s long-term sustainability goals by reducing traffic congestion and promoting active transportation.
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