The following represents my reflections and recommendations as they directly and indirectly impact upon the Waterfront Trail:

Clarification is required with regards to a potential 'promenade'. Where would it be located and what would be the boundaries? Is the word promenade used in a generic sense for any public path or paved area? On page 12 the words 'promenade boardwalk' appeared. If the Consultants mean a traditional plank style structure, it represents severe limitations. For example, the boardwalk along the waterfront in Goderich, Ontario is not the answer because it is narrow, is in constant need of repair (replacing the boards and support structures) and is not user friendly for cyclists, in-line skaters and our wheelchair-bound citizens.

The Report mentions various potential trail widths. Five metres appear on pg. 12, four metres for pedestrian/cyclist trails and three metres for pedestrian trails (p. 20. 17.4.2). Why does the Report contain various widths? I have always maintained that the only viable trail width which would accommodate present and future needs is a six metre (20 foot) continuous asphalt trail from the Water Treatment Plant west to the border of the Fifty Point Conservation area. This width would be identical to the one which exists at Confederation Park in Hamilton. It would certainly not be excessive when one considers that there will be two-way traffic consisting of cyclists, wheelchairs, joggers, in-line skaters, walkers, etc.

Numerous other groups, organizations and sport teams such as the Subaru, Niagara Triathlon, the 8 km Casablanca Classic, the Tim Horton's Peach Bud Run, the Grimsby's Half Marathon and the ever growing and popular The Great Trail Cycling Adventure (Waterfront Regeneration Trust) will be using the trail.

Narrow trails result in hazardous unsafe conditions. Consequently, our Trail must be properly installed the first time. Some Ontario waterfront towns have built a three metre wide trail only to discover that it was insufficient. As a result, they incurred the added future expense and disruption of having to widen their trail. One must always bear in mind that the population of the Niagara Region will significantly increase in the not too distant future. The Trail must not only accommodate present populations (including tourists) but also provide for future generations.

I feel that it is important for the Consultants, Region and Town Council to note our position on residential/business development as it pertains to the Town of Grimsby. Development yes, but certainly not over-development and only development that is aesthetically pleasing and in suitable locations. We feel that the Town and Region should 'lobby hard' to unlock Greenbelt areas in which the town has already installed the necessary infrastructure for development. In addition, continued pressure should be applied to develop the area above the escarpment. We suggest that the Region use its resources to unfreeze these lands. There is no question that the real future of Grimsby will be located above 'the mountain'. I believe that the development of this area is inevitable. Consequently, the waterfront properties presently occupied by the Rogers Radio Towers and the Department of National Defense must never be paved over with homes and businesses. This area is indeed a natural and priceless heritage and needs to be set aside for a waterfront park, inter-connected trails, a band-shell, recreational facilities (soccer, baseball, football, field hockey) and open spaces for family and company picnics.

Our primary and secondary students clearly articulated their passion to protect and preserve our waterfront. We credit each and every one of them for their wisdom and view of the future. In addition, the thousands of citizens who signed our support sheets along with almost 200 local businesses showed us where they stand.

Someday (perhaps sooner rather than later) the last three kms of Grimsby's shoreline will be freed from the present owners. Developers will certainly covet these properties and apply unrelenting pressure on the Town Council of the day. This attempt to influence decision-making must be openly and strenuously resisted. A clear vision towards the future should remain our primary aim. Preservation of greenspace is never easy but the environmental benefits are enormous, enriching and forever lasting.

Once again, a sincere thank you to Sorensen, Gravely, Lowes for taking into consideration my thoughts and recommendations.

Dennis D'Alessandro

Chairperson, Friends of the Waterfront