PETERBOROUGH, Ont. — A new section of Peterborough’s Little Lake Loop is moving ahead with more than $7.5 million in joint investment aimed at expanding the city’s cycling and pedestrian infrastructure and improving connections to parks, businesses and tourism destinations.
The project will add another 1.15 kilometres to the existing Little Lake Loop, which currently stretches 2.34 kilometres. The broader plan calls for a 4.46-kilometre multi-use trail around Little Lake, making it an important component of Peterborough’s active transportation network.
Emma Harrison, Member of Parliament for Peterborough, joined Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal to announce the investment through the federal Active Transportation Fund.
Little Lake Loop Expansion to Improve Local Connections
The latest section will run along Crescent Street and Haggart Street as part of the Little Lake Master Plan.
Plans include 250 metres of lakeside pedestrian paths, 600 metres of two-way cycle tracks, 860 metres of sidewalk and 350 metres of multi-use paths. The project will also incorporate a Woonerf, or shared streetscape, designed to accommodate different types of road and pathway users.
Landscaping, plantings, shade structures and seating areas will also be added to create a more welcoming environment for residents and visitors of different ages.
“The Little Lake Loop is part of a long-term vision that will help make Peterborough a more connected, active, and beautiful place to live. I am grateful for the federal government’s support for multi-use trails across the country, which strengthens communities and improves people’s lives. I’m pleased to see funding support this important project for Peterborough – a project residents have long advocated for and care deeply about.”
— Emma Harrison, Member of Parliament for Peterborough
Federal and Municipal Governments Provide Major Funding
The federal government is investing $3,914,203 in the project through the Active Transportation Fund, while the City of Peterborough is contributing $2,534,469. The Survivors Abreast Peterborough Dragon Boat Team is also donating $75,000. Federal funding remains conditional on the signing of the project’s contribution agreement.
The investment builds on federal Active Transportation Fund support announced in 2023 for improvements to Peterborough’s Rotary Greenway Trail.
The federal program supports the development and expansion of pathways, sidewalks, bicycle lanes and trails, with the goal of providing more affordable and lower-emission transportation options.
Trail Designed to Support Walking, Cycling and Accessibility
Active transportation projects are intended to give residents more options for travelling through their communities by walking, cycling or using mobility aids.
The federal program covers infrastructure supporting wheelchairs, scooters, e-bikes and other forms of human-powered or hybrid mobility. At least 10 per cent of Active Transportation Fund financing is allocated to projects benefiting Indigenous populations and communities.
“Completing another segment of the Little Lake Loop is an important step toward creating a more connected and accessible trail network in Peterborough. This investment will provide more opportunities for residents and visitors to walk, cycle and enjoy the natural beauty of Little Lake, while connecting people to our parks, businesses and tourism destinations. We’re pleased to see this vision continue to take shape and to invest in infrastructure that will serve our community for years to come.”
— His Worship Jeff Leal, Mayor of the City of Peterborough
Little Lake Project Part of Broader Active Transportation Strategy
The Active Transportation Fund supports Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy, which focuses on expanding walking, cycling and other sustainable transportation networks using data-driven and evidence-based infrastructure investments.
For Peterborough, completing another portion of the Little Lake Loop will advance a long-term effort to connect neighbourhoods with recreational areas, local businesses and visitor destinations.
Once the latest 1.15-kilometre section is completed, the expanded trail will provide additional dedicated space for pedestrians and cyclists while bringing the city closer to completing its planned 4.46-kilometre Little Lake Loop.
Evan McKenzie is a contributor at Vaughantoday.ca, covering a wide range of topics including local news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, balanced reporting that helps readers stay informed about current events and issues that matter to their communities. His work aims to provide useful information, timely updates, and relevant stories presented in an accessible and reader-friendly way.