KAWARTHA LAKES-The Fenelon Falls Powerlinks Committee recently outlined its vision for the lower gorge crossing and is asking City Council for a letter of support.
The Fenelon Falls Powerlinks Committee oversees and makes recommendations to Council regarding the use of the Powerlinks Fund to be used for the betterment and enhancement of Parks and Recreation in the village of Fenelon Falls.
In 2022 Council approved the release of $150,000 from the Fenelon Falls Powerlinks Reserve fund for a site and design study for a lower gorge crossing.
At the May 22, 2024 meeting Council was asked to provide a letter of support to the Powerlinks Committee to be used as a reference and included in any applications for regulatory approvals or grant funding as required to move the pedestrian bridge project forward.
A presentation was made in April to Council by members of the Powerlinks Committee outlining their vision for the lower gorge of the Fenelon River, just downstream of the falls. The vision consists of two components. First, to address the inadequate dockage in the lower reach, it is proposed to install further docking at various locations along the shore of the river, with access to the top of the cliffs to access the town. Second, it is proposed that a single-span pedestrian bridge be erected to connect Clifton Street North and South, allowing a second pedestrian crossing over the river. Officials say these projects will provide a significant benefit to the community providing additional docking and walkways providing better accessibility for residents and visitors to access the downtown core.
The design phase is now complete therefore the Powerlinks Committee is requesting a letter of support for the project from Council to accompany the submission of applications to the required governing authorities seeking approval for the Powerlinks Committee to move forward with the project. Such approvals may be required from authorities such as Trent Severn Waterway (TSW), Kawartha Lakes Conservation Authority (KLCA), Department of Fisheries and Oceans, (DFO), Ministry of Transportation (MTO), and other consultation or regulatory authorities governing the project area.
Council approved the motion for a letter of support.
