In a recent ‘flash vote’ survey by the Town of Saugeen Shores regarding the overall quality of the more than 40km of paved and natural surface trails, many responses were received.
On a scale from 1 to 5 (1=Terrible, 2=Bad, 3=OK, 4=Good, 5=Excellent), the average rating was 4.05.
In the survey, most people responded that they use the trail system for exercise, recreation or simply getting outdoors in natural areas while the next highest response was to use the trails to access beaches.
Many users however, also wanted to see improvements to the rail system that would include lighting, improved signage and crossings for safety while some also want to see more trails added along with access points that connect to more places. In addition, many responders want to see more beautification that includes more litter clean-up with more garbage cans year round.
Some responses referred to the dangerous crossing on Hwy. 21 at Hi-berry Farms. The highway however, is under provincial jurisdiction and, therefore, the municipality cannot make any changes. It has been under contention for many years but the provincial Ministry of Transportation has not warranted it as excessively dangerous.
Too impatient to wait for a vehicle turning left, motorists pass illegally on the right – photo by Saugeen Times
Saugeen Times has been monitoring the Hi-berry crossing for 17 years with an archive of photos that demonstrate the ‘near misses’ or vehicle accidents and concerns for cyclists.
When it comes to the area’s trails, the following usage was determined.
Copway Trail (Southampton) – 95
Woodland Trail (Southampton) – 214
Rail Trail (Southampton and Port Elgin) – 318
North Shore Waterfront Trail (Southampton and Port Elgin) – 283
Biener Bush Trail (Port Elgin) – 231
Shipley Trail (Port Elgin) – 159
Gore Drain Trail (Port Elgin) – 73
None of these – 34
Other: – 11
With the evolution of electric bicycles, one responder pointed out that he/she would like to “… see the police on bicycles on the trail monitoring the speed of electric bicycles and scooters”.
While many responders pointed out drawbacks on the trail system, another said, “This is a valued asset worthy of ongoing investment. We hear from people from out of our local area who rave about the trails, their ease of use and accessibility, and always, the beauty.”
