Council makes accommodations to residents for closed walkway

Kinsmen Bridge is now closed and fenced off to allow removal of the existing structure and to make way for a new bridge to be put in place. (Jeff Helsdon Photo).

By Jeff Helsdon, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Tillsonburg council passed two separate initiatives at its Aug. 11 meeting to assist Hickory Hills residents with the inconvenience of the closing of the Kinsmen Bridge during construction.

The bridge is closed until December for replacement. It sees between 250 and 500 people per day cross it, and connects Hickory Hills and other subdivisions on the west side of town to the downtown at Rolph Street.

The bridge was built in 1888, and was part of the Great Western Railway connecting Tillsonburg Junction to Brantford, until it was converted to pedestrian use after the removal of the rails.

The first suggestion, outlined in a report from Carlos Reyes, Director of Operations and Development, was to offer free TGo bus service from two stops (Wilson and Hickory) during the construction period. The detour walking to Bidwell because of the bridge closure was estimated at 1.5 kilometers in length, instead of the 350-meter length between Wilson and Bridge Streets via the bridge.

“This significant increase in travel distance may pose challenges for pedestrians, particularly seniors, youth, and individuals with mobility limitations,” he wrote.

The only question from council was from Mayor Deb Gilvesy, who asked what residents should do if they are struggling with understanding the bus schedule. She was told anyone needing assistance should contact the customer service centre.

Any costs associated with covering the bus fares will be funded through the Kinsmen Bridge contingency fund.

The second accommodation for the construction came through a notice of motion presented by Coun. Kelly Spencer, at the encouragement of Coun. Bob Parsons – who couldn’t attend the latter part of the meeting -  to temporarily install a bench on Baldwin Street, adjacent to Edgewood Drive. The bench is to provide a rest stop for those walking the longer route.