Community Turns Out to Learn About the Pedestrian Crossing Project

It was a rainy Tuesday evening, but that did not deter community members from filling the Fenelon Falls Seniors’ Centre to learn about the Pedestrian Crossing project. 

Chris Handley introduced the members of the Waterfront Improvement Committee, a committee of the Fenelon Falls & District Chamber of Commerce, the Powerlinks Committee members in attendance and gave a brief background of the project. 

Powerlinks is a Committee of Council that advises the City of Kawartha Lakes on expenditures from the Powerlinks Reserve Fund - monies accumulated from the Fenelon Falls Powerplant. The Terms of Reference direct the committee to find projects and partners for Waterfront Improvement and Economic Development in Fenelon Falls. Previous projects include Garnet Graham South park, dock improvements in the upper reach of Lock 34, the splashpad, and other community improvements. The Pedestrian Crossing sits as the first step toward Lower Gorge improvements. 

During the same period that Powerlinks was exploring new improvement projects, the first phase of Environmental Assessment for a Second Crossing was completed. That process proved Clifton Street was not a suitable second crossing location - meaning that we could capitalize on this beautiful area for additional docking, park improvements and a pedestrian crossing that would link the two sides of the gorge. As such, Powerlinks partnered with the Chamber of Commerce in investigating the viability of these potential projects in the lower gorge. With the support of City of Kawartha Lakes Council, the Chamber began site investigation into geotechnical and engineering design. We were successful in proving the site viable for a crossing to link the north and south sides of the gorge. 

Brad Kalus, from Planmac Engineering, presented a project update. Key highlights include the bridge design, materials, and location as outlined in the slideshow presentation. A copy of the presentation and comment sheets are available HERE in the Community Projects section. Comment sheets will be accepted until August 21, 2026, via email. 

The Waterfront Improvement Committee and the Fenelon Falls & District Chamber of Commerce would like to thank everyone who attended the information meeting to learn first-hand about the project details.