Crosstown Trail

The implementation of a four-metre-wide multi-use trail is guided by the Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM) Book 18, which incorporates the All Ages and Abilities (AAA) design philosophy. This approach, as outlined by the National Association of City Transportation Officials in their Urban Bikeway Design Guide and Designing for All Ages and Abilities, aims to create infrastructure that encourages cycling among a broader range of users while minimizing conflicts through thoughtful design. 

The trail’s width supports safe, simultaneous use by cyclists, pedestrians and others regardless of age, skill level, or mobility device. It also enhances accessibility and promotes year-round use, creating a vital and safe connection between Oakville’s communities. Following the completion of the Crosstown Trail - Phase 1 from Neyagawa Boulevard to Munn’s Avenue, the Town saw an increase in usage, underscoring the community’s enthusiasm for this type of infrastructure.

This new pathway is included in the Town’s winter maintenance program which includes plowing, along with salt and sand treatment as appropriate.

The existing granular pathway, approximately two-metres wide, will be upgraded to a paved surface that generally follows the same alignment. The design has been carefully developed to minimize impacts on existing trees and vegetation. This project is focused solely on the east-west granular trail within the gas corridor between Khalsa Gate and the Sixteen Mile Creek. Once completed, the paved pathway will remain dedicated to pedestrians, cyclists, and personal mobility devices. It will not be classified as a road and will not be open to motor vehicles. P-Gates with locks will be installed at all entrances to prevent motorized vehicles from entering the trail. Controlled Pedestrian Crossings will also be installed at all road crossings to help facilitate the safe crossing at roadways for users.

Within the constraints of the existing infrastructure, we are actively managing drainage and grading throughout the construction process to ensure proper water flow to designated outlets along the pathway.

In April 2023, the Town engaged with over 800 residents whose homes back onto the trail corridor and live within 100 metres of any road crossings. Notices were delivered to homes, inviting residents to review project details and share their feedback online.