Paid parking at select trail heads in Uxbridge has earned the township some $115,000 since it was introduced last summer (see below).
“The project has earned $115,000 as of June 30th, 2023,” said a township statement.
Over the last year, the Trail Sustainability Fund has been implemented by the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA), Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), the Township of Uxbridge and Region of Durham at select locations to fund enhanced services and amenities at local trail heads. The partners in the project are collecting parking fees at select parking locations and will use 100 per cent of the proceeds to fund maintenance, and improvements to infrastructure at the trail sites, said the statement.
It said some of the funds have been used to:
- Engage snow plowing operations for trail parking lots – this enhances safety and enables use of the trail parking for more days a year.
- Place a portable toilet at Concession 7 and Houston Road trailhead.
- Provide materials for boardwalk repairs in Secord Forest and Wildlife Area, with construction completed by Oak Ridges Moraine trail Association and Levis Company volunteers.
Additional improvements funded through parking revenues are planned for this summer. A nearly $60,000 bridge replacement in the Glen Major section of TRCA’s East Duffins Headwaters Properties will protect and improve habitat for aquatic species in the Duffins Creek and improve safety for tens of thousands of trail users. Green Durham Association and Durham Mountain Biking Association are contributing 50 per cent to match the fund’s 50 per cent contribution on this project, the statement said.
It said the trail system within the Township of Uxbridge sees over 100,000 visitors annually and this number is predicted to grow.
It explained that with the increase in trail traffic, it has become more difficult for the municipality, landowners, land managers, and volunteer groups to keep up with the pace and costs of necessary maintenance, visitor amenities and services. The revenue generated by visiting trail users will continue to improve, maintain, and provide future infrastructure to all trail sites.
For more information, visit Permit Parking – Trail Sustainability – Township of Uxbridge.
Earlier Story
You May Also Want To Read
Driver ‘educated’ after child let free in car having a drink