Minden's Active Transportation Plan - Haliburton County Community ...

An Active Transportation Plan for Minden 

www.publicspaceworkshop.ca 

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www.publicspaceworkshop.ca

Acknowledgements 

The Communities in Action (CIA) Committee is a broad based coalition of volunteers with an 

interest in planning for healthy, active communities. Members of the committee include: 

• Sue Shikaze (Chair) – Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit 

• Jim Blake – Haliburton County Development Corporation 

• Barrie Martin – Yours Outdoors, Head Lake Trail Committee 

• Roy Haig – Minden Riverwalk 

• Rick Cox (Staff Liaison) – Township of Minden Hills 

• Dick Charron – Haliburton Highlands Cycling Coalition 

• Kate Hall – Project Coordinator 

The CIA Committee would like to thank the citizens of Minden Hills for their involvement and 

input into this plan. In addition, many thanks are extended to the following community 

partners, organizations and resource people for their support of the Active Transportation 

Planning project in Minden. 

Community Partners 

• The Township of Minden Hills 

• Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit 

• Haliburton County Development Corporation 

• Haliburton County Community Co-op 

• Archie Stouffer Elementary School 

• Health For Life 

• U-Links Centre for Community-Based Research 

• Minden Riverwalk Committee 

• Head Lake Trail Committee 

Funders 

• The Ministry of Health Promotion, Communities in Action Fund (Active 2010) 

• The Haliburton County Development Corporation 

• The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, Community Advocacy Fund 

• Safe Kids Canada, Pedestrian Safety Program 

• Health for Life 

• Ontario Healthy Communities Coalition 



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Researchers & Resource People 

• Heather Reid, Director – U-Links Centre for Community-Based Research 

• Stacey Schell, Research Assistant – U-Links Centre for Community-Based Research 

• Jennifer Robus and Amanda McLachlan, Student Researchers – Trent University 

• Melanie Scheffee, HKPR District Health Unit, administrative support 

• Walk21 

• Fay & Associates 

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Table of Contents 

Page 

1. Introduction…………………………………………………………… 1 

2. The Case for Active Transportation……………………………….. 2 

3. Initiatives Supporting Active Transportation in Minden…………... 6 

4. Public Consultation and Research ……………………………….. 10 

5. An Active Transportation Vision for Minden …………………...... 12 

6. Objectives of Minden’s Active Transportation Plan……………… 13 

7. Priority Projects and Recommendations………………………….. 14 

7.1 Review Planning and Transportation Policies..………………. 15 

7.2 School Zone………………………………………………...……. 17 

7.3 Completing a Sidewalk, Trails and Paths Network………..… 20 

7.4 Maintenance of Existing Sidewalk and Trail Infrastructure…. 25 

7.5 Downtown Improvements and Boosting Tourism……………. 26 

7.6 Promoting a Culture of Walking and AT in Minden …………. 31 

8. Implementation Strategy …………………….……………………… 33 

9. Resources…………………………………………………………….. 36 

List of Appendices 

A. Summary of Recent Public Consultations and Research on Active 

Transportation in Minden……………………………………………. 38 

B. Active Communities Charter………………………………………… 44 

C. Comments on Existing Official Plan for Minden Hills ……………. 45 

D. Standards and Guideline Resources ……………………………… 49 

E. Map: Walk, Bike and Be Active in Minden …………………………50 

References ………………………………………………………………… 52 



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1.0 Introduction 

The Communities in Action (CIA) Committee is a coalition that formed in 2004 out of an 

interest in creating healthy, active rural communities. Recognizing the connections between 

the built environment and health, the CIA chose active transportation planning as a means 

to achieve the following goal and objectives. 

Goal: To raise physical activity levels through active transportation (AT) promotion & 

planning 

Objectives: 

• To promote active transportation as a way to improve health 

• To promote opportunities for walking and cycling within the villages and surrounding 

areas 

• To create active transportation plans for the Villages of Haliburton and Minden 

The CIA contracted the services of Paul Young, landscape architect with Public Space 

Workshop to develop an Active Transportation Plan for the Village of Minden. The plan 

summarizes a substantial body of research and community outreach conducted by the CIA. 

It outlines opportunities and barriers as well as strategic priorities to improve conditions for 

walking, biking and barrier free movement in Minden. 

The document is intended as a resource for municipal staff and political representatives to 

assist in identifying, prioritizing and budgeting for missing components of a comprehensive 

active transportation network. 

The report focuses on the Village of Minden. There are recommendations for future work to 

support AT based on the consultations and research as well as examples from elsewhere in 

Southern Ontario. Several recommendations are illustrated with ‘before and after’ images 

to provide an impression of what possible improvements might look like and to start the 

conversation regarding possible physical changes to support active transportation in 

Minden. The examples shown will require a more detailed feasibility study or review. 

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2.0 The Case for Active Transportation (AT) 

Active transportation involves using modes of travel that are self-propelled alternatives to 

the automobile, such as walking, cycling, in-line skating and skateboarding. It involves 

moving from one location to another for a purpose and not simply for recreation. 

“Active Transportation creates a community designed for people.” MH Planning Forum, 

Communities in Action presentation 

Active transportation planning is important to the Village of Minden for the follow reasons. 

Health ~ Safety ~ Economy ~ Environment ~ Fairness & Dignity 

2.1 Health 

Obesity and Inactivity 

In 2005, the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Annual Report Card indicated that rural 

residents are more car dependent, half as likely to be as physically active as their urban 

counterparts and at an increased risk of being overweight or obese. The spatial distribution 

of settlements and distance between home, work or school, and commercial areas, has led 

to a strong car culture in rural communities and this raises some challenges for people 

looking to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine. Active transportation planning 

is one way to provide opportunities for daily physical activity to improve the health of rural 

residents. 

Studies confirm that there is more value in doing moderate intensity exercise every day than 

more intense activity just a few days a week. Significant health benefits can be realized by 

using active modes of transportation daily - to commute to work or school, or simply walking 

around the neighbourhood after dinner every night. 

Active Transportation Use in Minden 

Observations were carried out during June, July and August of 2007 at 15 different locations 

throughout town. All observation points showed low levels of AT use. In addition, a recent 

survey of children from Archie Stouffer Elementary School showed that 70 % of children 



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living less than 1 km from school travel by car or bus at least some of the time (CIA). 

However, trails are popular in Minden. Overall, the most common recreational activities in 

the past year were ‘soft trail activities’ (walking, hiking, cross-country skiing) at 60%, 

followed by ‘outdoor summer aquatics’ at 33%, and ‘hard trail activities’ (running, cycling 

and in-line skating) at 20% (Minden Recreation Needs Assessment, 2007). 

2.2 Safety 

People who choose not to walk or bike often identify safety concerns as the main reason. 

Roads designed just for cars create situations where walkers and cyclists may be putting 

their safety at risk due to high traffic volume or speed, or pedestrian road crossings that are 

ambiguous, confusing (for drivers and pedestrians) or non-existent. 

In Canada alone there are over 400 pedestrian and cyclist fatalities / year 1 . 

Unsafe Places In Minden 

The most frequently mentioned include: 

• The Gull River bridge (and intersections at Water St.and Invergordon Ave. 

• The intersection at Bobcaygeon Rd. and Newcastle St 

• Highway 35 corridor, and getting to it from town 

• The school area at Bobcaygeon Rd 

• Deep Bay Rd. (Hospital area) 

2.3 Economy 

Trails and walking facilities add to the local economy by providing jobs, increasing access to 

retail and cultural attractions and by supporting tourism. Creating walking and cycling 

friendly communities also enhances quality of life, an important feature for attracting new 

residents and business. Active transportation infrastructure also provides relatively 

inexpensive recreation and everyday exercise opportunities resulting in savings in health 

care costs (Go for Green, 2000). 

1 Transport Canada, Vulnerable Road User Safety: A Global Concern - using 2001 statistics 

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/tp2436/rs200403/menu.htm#Background 

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Compact and infill development (which are typically more pedestrian friendly) will provide 

savings on municipal infrastructure and savings on maintenance. 

When there are safe and convenient alternatives to driving, households may be able to 

make fewer car trips resulting in a significant reduction in the everyday cost of living. 

2.4 Environment 

In a year, the average car produces three times its weight (about six tons) in carbon dioxide 

emissions per year – a major green house gas 2 . 

As public awareness of climate change continues to grow, municipal leaders will be 

expected to remove barriers to local activities that curb greenhouse gas emissions. Active 

transportation infrastructure provides a relatively low-cost step towards decreasing auto 

dependence and related emissions. 

• Two in three of all Canadians live within a 30-minute walk of a routine destination 

(i.e. work, leisure, shopping, friends or school) 

• Eight in ten live within a 30 minute cycle of a routine destination 

• Currently one-fourth of all trips people make are 1 mile or less but, 

• Three fourths of these trips are made by car 

For healthy individuals the examples above describe trips that can often be replaced with 

active modes of transportation, making it one of the most cost effective ways to significantly 

reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Small amounts of money invested strategically in 

infrastructure that supports AT can yield big results (Go For Green, 2005). 

While a rural setting has somewhat unique challenges, initiatives such as the CIA’s “Park 

the Car and Get Movin” campaign are promoting reduced car trips in and around the 

village. Such an initiative is made more effective when AT infrastructure is in place. 

2 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/emissions/ind_calculator.html 



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2.5 Fairness and Dignity 

Our transportation infrastructure should be 

open to all citizens but currently it is designed 

primarily for people who drive. Often in rural 

communities transportation planning = roads = 

cars. This is not surprising given the distances 

that people often have to travel from home to 

desired destinations. The CIA has focused their 

planning efforts on the Villages of Minden and 

Haliburton as “urban” centres where the density 

of residential dwellings, employment and 

commercial/retail activities is such that it can 

support a multi-modal transportation network. 

Highway Skateboarder 

Not everyone can drive. About one-third of 

North Americans do not drive: we are 

temporarily “abled to drive”. 

Highway 35 walkers with children in stroller 

• Over 14 % of the Canadian 

population is over 65 with 

diminishing eye-sight (and that 

number is growing) 3 

• Life expectancy is now over 82 

years 

• People under 16 cannot drive 

• Some people with disabilities cannot 

• 

drive 

Many cannot afford automobiles 

Highway walker with person in wheelchair 

• A few are fortunate enough not to need a car 4 

Access to transportation is important to everyone. Our public resources need to ensure all 

members of society including children, youth, seniors and people with disabilities can move 

about safely and efficiently without a car. 

3 Statistics Canada, Population Estimates and Projections, Population Estimates by Age and Sex, 2006. 

4 Complete the Streets, www.completestreets.org 

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Access to a car is particularly difficult for low-income 

families in Minden. Many appear to be already using AT 

out of necessity in situations that are unsafe and difficult 

(i.e. along the Highway 35 corridor). In Haliburton County 

26% of families with children live in poverty 5 . 

In addition to the high costs associated with driving a car, 

Haliburton has a higher than average seniors population. 

In time it is likely that a disproportionate number of 

residents will lose access to their car due to eye sight 

deterioration and other conditions associated with aging 

(Central East Local Health Integration Network, 2006). 

3.0 Initiatives Supporting Active Transportation in Minden 

3.1 Initiatives in the Province of Ontario 

There are a series of provincial policies that lay out directions for municipal planning and 

growth. Municipalities are required to set out their own planning strategies such that they 

are consistent with the provincial directions. These provincial policies are summarized 

below. 

The Provincial Policy Statement 

The Provincial Policy Statement (2005) provides policy directions on planning and 

development. Official plans, which shape investments for new growth and infrastructure (i.e. 

hard services, roads, parks, schools) must conform to provincial policy documents such as 

the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS). Key objectives in the PPS relating to active 

transportation include: 

• Provide a compact mix of uses in areas identified for intensification and avoid 

developments away from existing settlement areas 

• Promote the use of public transit and other alternative transportation modes in and 

between residential, employment (including commercial, industrial and institutional 

uses) and other areas where these exist or are to be developed 

5 Much of Haliburton’s employment is seasonal in tourism and forestry so families unable to secure full-time 

employment may struggle financially at different times of the year. The Early Intervention Network of 

Haliburton County, Building Better Outcomes for Children in Haliburton County. 

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• Plan public streets, spaces and facilities to be safe, meet the needs of pedestrians, 

and facilitate pedestrian and non-motorized movement, including but not limited to, 

walking and cycling and 

• A land use pattern, density and mix of uses should be promoted that minimize the 

length and number of vehicle trips and support the development of viable choices 

and plans for public transit and other alternative transportation modes, including 

commuter rail and bus 

These recent planning reforms under The Strong Communities Act, 2004, (Bill 26) require 

that land use planning decisions “shall be consistent with”, the PPS. (Ministry of Municipal Affairs 

and Housing, 2005). 

The Places to Grow Act 

The province has outlined a strategy to accommodate growth in Southern Ontario while 

preserving a green belt. It encourages municipalities to set out growth plans that support 

compact infill development in designated areas where settlement exists. Growth plans 

provide clarity for infrastructure investments and new development but they also support 

active transportation by encouraging “complete communities” – communities that are 

compact with a fine grained mix of uses and housing types. 

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Professional Planning Organizations 

The Ontario Provincial Planners Institute recently released a discussion paper Healthy 

Communities, Sustainable Communities, that calls on planners to ensure active 

transportation is provided for within transportation networks and to promote land use 

decisions that support active transportation over private automobile use (Ontario Provincial 

Planners Institute, 2007). 

Institutions such as the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) and the Institute of 

Transportation Engineers (ITE) are starting to address institutional and legislative 

challenges by improving design standards and providing training for practitioners involved in 

the planning and delivery of active transportation systems (Metrolinx, 2008). 

3.2 Haliburton County’s Strategic Plan 

In 2003 this plan identified several trends that relate to active transportation in Minden. 

• An aging population (growing number of retired or near-retired people) 

• Inadequate services relating to seniors (i.e. transportation) 

• A growing focus on environment 

• The need for a more diverse economic base especially in non-tourist seasons (ideas: 

art and crafts, tourism, eco-tourism) 

• A need to develop more recreational trails 

• A need for increased level of inter-municipal cooperation 

• Stronger commitments to long-term planning 

• More public and political participation 

3.3 In Minden Hills 

The Minden Hills Official Plan 

Municipal Official Plans provide the strategic direction to incorporate active transportation 

into land use planning. In Ontario there is no standard approach to planning for active 

transportation and most municipalities are required to undertake stand alone studies and 

develop policies that are unique to their context. The Township of Minden Hills’ partnership 

with the CIA to develop an Active Transportation Plan for the Village of Minden is both 

progressive and unique. In addition to this Plan, acceptable guidelines that are routinely 

used to design and upgrade walking and bicycle infrastructure, and to shape building and 

site plans are available. Examples include minimizing parking requirements, pulling new 

buildings up to the street, building up not out, and implementing a “complete streets” policy 



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that requires sidewalks and streetscaping and other AT supportive infrastructure (Metrolinx, 

2008). 

Minden Hills Council has adopted the International Pedestrian Charter. 

In the fall of 2007, Minden and Haliburton hosted a Walk 21 “Road Show” session where a 

group of local citizens and elected representatives worked with international experts to 

observe and recommend improvements to better support walking. Minden Hills Council 

demonstrated its support for active transportation by adopting the International Charter for 

Walking, which puts walking and other forms of active transportation at the top of the 

transportation hierarchy. 

Minden Riverwalk 

Council has committed significant financial resources towards the Minden Riverwalk, and 

recognizes the value of this trail as both an active transportation corridor and 

recreation/tourism resource. 

Evidence Based Decision Making 

The Communities in Action Committee has produced a substantial body of research on 

Minden pointing to the need for better active transportation infrastructure. Consultation has 

been exemplary and citizens have been involved in several different and innovative ways to 

identify obstacles to using active transportation as well as setting priorities for 

improvements. 

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4.0 Public Consultation and Research 

Throughout 2007-2008, the Communities in Action Committee has gathered information 

from members of the Minden community through surveys, focus groups, walk-ability 

assessments, observational studies and physical inventories. They have also made 

presentations at community forums as well as to municipal council and other stakeholders. 

Appendix ‘A’ provides a brief summary of each study and its conclusions. The findings vary 

from specific improvements at given locations through to broad goals and objectives. The 

following key points were identified in community workshops and focus groups. 

Existing Active Transportation Assets in Minden: 

• Village Green 

• The Gull River 

• Minden Hills Cultural Centre (MHCC) 

• Orde St., Stouffer St. and Invergordon 

Ave. (streets regularly used by walkers) 

• Minden Riverwalk – paved pathway; 

cultural and economic enhancement 

• Minden Walking Trail that connects 

sidewalk on Bobcaygeon Rd. with 

Cultural Centre, arena and community centre 

• Lots of sidewalks 

• Attractive lighting and garden boxes on main street 

• Large parking area located just behind main street (Bobcaygeon Rd.) 

• Murals on buildings, flowers and banners are attractive 

• Heritage buildings identified through Heritage Tour signage 

• Some events (Timberfest) identified on event sign 

Primary Barriers to Active Transportation in Minden: 

• Although many children are close enough to walk to school, the walk is considered 

dangerous due to lack of sidewalks and safe crossings as well as speeding cars. 

Hence, many parents prefer to drive children to school 

• Wheelchair accessibility is not consistently provided in the village; 

• Minden (especially the retail) is too spread out; 

• Developments along the Highway 35 “by-pass” concentrate shopping in an unwalkable 

place. There are no safe and convenient walking connections between the 



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downtown village and everyday shopping destinations on Hwy 35; 

• Sidewalks are often missing or discontinuous; 

• Sidewalks and trails vary in width and require maintenance; 

• It is difficult to draw in tourism without good signage regarding the attractions in the 

village; 

• Driver’s speed makes walking or biking unsafe; and 

• Intersections at either end of the downtown are confusing and dangerous to cross. 

• Research indicates that use of active transportation is low in most Minden locations. 

Few people in Minden choose AT as their mode of travel 

30 

25 

20 

# ATers/hour 

15 

10 

5 

0 

Vintage 

Bobcaygeon 

Water 

IGA 

Anson 

Parkside 

Prince 

Stouffer 

Orde 

Invergordon 

Deep Bay 

Pritchard 

Tim Hortons 

Ball Diamonds 

Newcastle 

Location 

Graph showing Average Number of People using A.T. per hour at locations in Minden 

(Active Transportation Quotient - Observation Study, 2007) 

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Work Being Done to Improve Active Transportation in Minden: 

• Creation of an Active Transportation Plan for Minden 

• Riverwalk project 

• Site Plan review of Canadian Tire development 

• Development of a map and signage highlighting active transportation routes and 

attractions in Minden 

• Planning charrette with Archie Stouffer Elementary School students 

5.0 An Active Transportation Vision for Minden 

“An active community gives conscious consideration to active transportation when 

making planning decisions, and makes accessibility for all modes of transportation a 

priority.” (Minden Focus Groups, 2007) 

Minden Hills has taken many steps towards creating an Active Community. These steps 

include improving ‘soft’ supports for active transportation (i.e. support of walking initiatives 

like Sneaker Day, World Record Walk, education campaigns) and ‘hard’ physical 

infrastructure (i.e. trail development, sidewalk improvements, bike parking). 

Active Transportation is central to an Active Community Vision for Minden. The Active 

Communities Charter was drafted in January 2007 by the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge 

District Health Unit. This document provides a framework for the municipality to create an 

active community that encourage daily physical activity, including active transportation. The 

principles and values outlined in the charter can act as guidelines that reflect the role of 

healthy, active living in municipal decision making (see appendix ‘B’ for a full copy of the 

Charter). 



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5.1 A Vision from the Active Communities Charter 

5.2 Defining an Active Community 

(Active Communities Charter, HKPR District Health Unit, 2007). 

6.0 Objectives of Minden’s Active Transportation Plan 

Set within the context of the evidence gathered and the Active Communities Charter, this 

plan has the following objectives: 

• Increase the number of people in Minden that choose non-motorized modes of travel 

• Maintain and improve existing hard and soft AT infrastructure, (i.e. sidewalks or 

walkways, trails, destinations and programs) 

• Identify needed infrastructure improvements, upgrades and missing elements 

(sidewalks, trails, bike lanes, bike parking, curb ramps, etc.) 

• Ensure the transportation system provides safe, efficient, well maintained networks 

for all modes of travel with a high priority on AT 

• Ensure all facilities (buildings, walkways, parks, trails) conform to agreed upon 

standards including “barrier free”, accessibility guidelines 

• Provide safe alternatives to driving – i.e. continuous sidewalks, trails and bike lanes 

that connect destinations with a direct, efficient route 

• Promote walking and cycling for more than recreational uses – as modes of 

transportation for all ages and abilities 

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• Educate AT users as well as drivers on how to modify behaviors to improve safety 

• Encourage support for network upgrades that improve connectivity and safety for AT 

users 

• Outline policy recommendations regarding AT for adoption into the Minden Hills 

Official Plan and relevant Transportation Plans 

• Identify priority projects for the short and long term and 

• Identify possible resources to implement the AT improvements 

7.0 Priority Projects and Recommendations 

“These projects offer concrete opportunities to fulfill the commitment to the Charter” 

(Participant, Minden AT Workshop, 2007). 

The following projects were identified through the public consultation and research process. 



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7.1 Priority: Review Planning and Transportation Policies 

“This is a good time to get AT into high level planning policy documents” (Active Transportation Workshop in Minden, fall 2007). 

Review Process 

The official plan (OP) outlines the strategic priorities at a high level – clarifying the commitment to AT. It sets a framework for all related 

policies that stem from the OP. The Official Plan review process now happens every five years in Ontario and involves consultation with 

the public. During the review, individuals and groups can suggest amendments to the Official Plan that reflect the values and priorities of 

the community. The research and public consultation conducted on Minden’s AT needs will help to inform upcoming discussions on 

planning and transportation directions for Minden. The transportation plan needs to reflect directions set out in the OP. 

Recommendations 

For a Review of 

Planning and 

Transportation Policies 

Review of the Official Plan. 

The Active Communities 

Charter and this report 

should set the strategic 

direction for Minden’s 

Official Plan. 

Use the opportunity to 

engage the broader public 

in the discussion about 

future directions for Minden 

with respect to AT. 

Implementation Strategies Resources & 

Partners 

Review Appendix ‘C’ for examples of specific wording amendments to better support AT 

in the existing OP for Minden Hills. 

Ensure that the new OP and related transportation planning policies: 

• Conform to provincial policy documents (Provincial Policy Statement (2005), Places 

to Grow) 

• Outline a preferred scenario for growth and transportation which includes active 

transportation; review areas designated for commercial and residential growth to 

ensure compact, efficient, mixed-use development. To encourage walking, 

residents should be in close proximity (5 - 10 minute walk or 0.75 km) to existing 

retail and public destinations 

• Reflect Minden’s commitment to becoming a more active community and reducing 

dependence on motor vehicles 

Planning, 

Transportation 

and Recreation 

departments, 

The CIA 

Committee, 

Health, 

General Public 

and 

all user groups 

and stakeholders 

• Ensure compatibility between planning and economic development strategies and, 

• Clarify policies such as parkland dedication and “cash in lieu of parkland” to ensure 

consistency with strategic directions in recreation, transportation and health 

15 An Active Transportation Plan for Minden www.publicspaceworkshop.ca


For a Review of 

Planning and 

Transportation Policies 

Review the Transportation Plan. 

It and related road rehabilitation 

studies need to be consistent 

with directions outlined in a new 

OP. 

Develop or update any “presubmission 

guidelines for new 

development” so they include a 

commitment to AT. 


Partners 

Develop a “Complete Streets” policy to outline a strategy that will ensure all road 

users, including the most vulnerable are accommodated on all existing and new 

roads. For examples of different types of complete streets and related policy refer to 

www.completestreets.org. 

Review and update AT standards, refer to Appendix ‘D’ for examples. 

The policy should require developers to demonstrate how they will respond to AT 

objectives and any planned or existing cycling and 

walking infrastructure as a pre-condition to approval. 

Outline requirements for sidewalks, trees, benches, 

lighting, bike parking and trail connections (where 

feasible) in new developments as a pre-condition 

to approval. Include Health Dept. in pre-development 

discussions and review of site / subdivision plans. 

Refer to Institute of Transportation 

Engineers Promoting Sustainable Transportation 

Through Site Design for an example of a check-list 


Transportation, 

Health, 

CIA Committee 



Health, 

Draft Checklist for 

Planners to Design 

Active Communities 

(Haliburton, 

Kawartha, Pine 

Ridge District Health 

Unit, 2007) 

http://www.cite7.org/Technical_Projects/Final%20Proposed%20Recommended%20P 

ractice%20RP-035.pdf 

Clarify Barrier Free Policies for 

Minden Hills 

Review the policy for sidewalks in new developments and standards for “barrier free” 

accessibility, width, curb ramps, intersections, paving materials and markings, signals 

and road crossings. Include a reference to barrier free policies in the OP and 

Transportation Plan. 



County Accessibility 

Committee 

Strike an Active Transportation 

Committee 

Strike an AT Committee at the County level. The role of this committee would be to 

hold regular meetings to bring stakeholders together in Minden and in Haliburton, to 

update strategic directions and projects, and review progress. 

Planning, Health, 


CIA and other 

stakeholders 

An Active Transportation Plan for Minden www.publicspaceworkshop.ca 

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7.2 Priority: School Zone (Intersection at Parkside Street and Bobcaygeon Road) 

“Children and seniors concentrate in this area, the crossing is dangerous, cars need more clues to slow down”, (Active Transportation 

Workshop in Minden, 2007) 

Bobcaygeon Rd. nearing the school has been designated as a “community safety zone” however the consultations indicate that the 

intersection is still considered dangerous especially for children and seniors – two populations that are particularly vulnerable to speeding 

cars. It is also adjacent to a series of other destinations such as the Cultural Centre. Citizens believe cars need more physical 

reminders to slow down. Suggestions included narrowing the curbs (build-outs) at the intersection, adding bike lanes, trees and a raised 

crossing, and adding some community entry gates or markers to signal drivers to slow down. Others suggested a crossing guard. 

Currently the intersection is “uncontrolled”. Pedestrians are likely taking extra precautions when crossing and that can be a good thing 

for safety’s sake. The research outlines several strategies to increase pedestrian safety, 1. speed reduction, 2. separation (i.e. signals, 

stops) and 3. visibility (i.e. lights, pavement markings). Speed reduction is the most effective. (Retting et al, 2003) 


For the School Zone 

Implementation Strategies Resources & Partners 

Evaluate the effectiveness of 

recent “Community Safety Zone” 

designation. 

Invite partners to participate in developing criteria to 

evaluate the community safety zone (frequency of 

speeding, senior’s and children’s perceptions of safety, 

etc.). 

ASES representatives, 

CIA 


ASES Parent Council, Student Council 

Put a crossing guard at the intersection until further 

measures can be put in place. 

Health Unit, 

Family Health Team Healthy Seniors 

Coordinator 

Police 

Establish a “School Transportation 

Plan” to determine who comes 

from where and by what mode. 

Include safety training for 

students, teachers and parents. 

Archie Stouffer School (ASES) to establish an Active 

and Safe Routes to School Program beginning with a 

review of the research findings and the ASES Planning 

Charrette workshop results. 

Archie Stouffer School to host a “bike rodeo” on 

cycling safety, perhaps with police. 


ASES Parent Council, Student Council 


Health Unit, 

Haliburton Highlands Cycling Coalition 

Police 

An Active Transportation Plan for Minden www.publicspaceworkshop.ca


For the School Zone 


Install three-way stop signs, or signalize with an 

intersection pedestrian signal (IPS) Pedestrian 

cross-overs (PXO or cross-walk) may not be as 

effective especially with children as they may not 

have the judgement to determine when to cross. 

Install designated well-marked pedestrian 

crossings, perhaps using curb build-outs or bike 

lanes to narrow the roadway to slow cars and 

shorten the distance pedestrians have to cross. 

The transportation department overseeing 

this section of Bobcaygeon Rd. needs to 

review the intersection with stakeholders to 

determine a recommended option for allowing 

pedestrians to cross safely. A more detailed 

analysis will be needed to determine 

feasibility and estimate costs. If deemed 

appropriate, add intersection reconfiguration 

to list of Road Needs Studies in the 

Township. 


Transportation and 

CIA Committee 

An IPS is described on the following link 

http://www.burlingtonroadsafety.ca/BRSC_Issues 

_Pedestrian_Safety.htm 

Explore the feasibility (considering pavement 

width, on-street parking demand) of installing 

bike lanes on Bobcaygeon Rd. from the 

downtown to the Cemetery at the north end. 

Use Before and After images in this report 

to start a conversation. 

Minden Hills transportation department to 

consult with stakeholders to determine 

feasibility and fit within a larger cycling 

network. 



Haliburton Highlands Cycling Coalition 

Minden Hills Recreation 

Physically and visually “pinch” Bobcaygeon Rd. 

near the Cemetery - perhaps using bike lanes, 

curb realignments, walls, event and service club 

signage, plantings and trees to serve as a traffic 

calming measure as described in Priority 7.5: 

Downtown Improvements and Boosting Tourism 

Determine the feasibility (property, utilities, 

available budget) of installing a gateway 

element. 



Business Association 

and Tourism 


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Before and after illustration of possible modifications (subject to feasibility study) 


7.3 Priority: Complete a Sidewalk, Trails and Path Network 

Vision: The design of the environment in Minden is safe and inviting and encourages more active transportation (Minden Focus Groups, 

2007). 

“ The Highway 35 corridor has no sidewalks [for example] to the legion, Kawartha Dairy for ice cream, to Rotary Park, to Tim Hortons, to 

Mark’s Restaurant, to grocery stores . . .” (First Impressions Community Exchange, 2007) 

Minden has some significant gaps in its walking and cycling infrastructure. Some of these gaps are being addressed for example, the 

new pedestrian bridge over the Gull River. Others such as the Highway 35 commercial corridor and the crossings over it are dangerous 

for walking or cycling. In addition, there are gaps in the walks and trails connecting the downtown core and nearby residential pockets to 

each other and to the Highway 35 commercial area. Other gaps exist in areas around the school and seniors housing. 

Safety and convenience are significant factors when people decide if they will walk or bike to a destination. Without these connections 

people cannot get where they need to go and will choose to drive or be driven. About one third of our population cannot drive for various 

reasons. Those that do walk or bike by choice or necessity may be forced to rely on infrastructure designed for cars and are putting their 

safety at risk. See AT Network Map at the end of this section. 

Need space for pedestrians 

Looking south-west at Hwy 35 and Water St. intersection 

Looking south at Hwy 35 on east 

side of Water St. intersection 


20


For Completing a Sidewalk, Trails & Path Network 

It is important to continue to celebrate the work that has 

been done to improve walks and trails in Minden. 

Ensure all new walks and trails comply with guidelines. 

Clarify strategy regarding retro-fitting and repairing existing 

walks for accessibility. 

A detailed analysis and design will be required for the 

following projects to determine the feasibility (space / 

property available, public support, cost, etc.). 

Selected projects to be included in a Five Year Capital 

Improvements Budget. Public consultation should be 

a central component. Projects in order of priority 

include: 


Partners 

Incorporate sesquicentennial celebrations into 

the pedestrian bridge and Riverwalk Trail 

development. 

Clarify Minden’s policy on barrier-free design 

for all new and existing infrastructure. 

An "accessible" trail or walk is one that 

complies with legal standards for access by 

people with disabilities. The Accessibility for 

Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005) and the 

Ontario Building Code - Section 3.8 Barrier 

Free Design are examples of legal standards 

against which a facility can be judged 

"accessible" or "not accessible". 

Riverwalk Committee, 

Recreation and 

Sesquicentennial Planning 

Committee 

Planning Dept., 

Works Dept., 

Building Dept., 

Other stakeholders / user 

groups and 

County Accessibility 

Committee 

Add walking and cycling facilities along both sides of Hwy 

35 extending north-south to pre-determined limits of the 

Commercial Corridor. 

Add sidewalks on all four roads leading to Hwy 35. Water 

and Bobcaygeon are first priority. Newcastle and Booth 

are second priority. 

Conduct a feasibility analysis with 

stakeholders and determine if a more detailed 

analysis and design is needed. 

Meet with Ministry of Transportation (MTO) to 

determine necessary steps for 

implementation. 


stakeholders and determine if a more detailed 

analysis and design is needed. 



MTO and Works Dept., 

Recreation Dept., 


groups incl. Haliburton 

Highlands Cycling Coalition, 


Transportation, MTO and 

Works Dept. 

21 



For Completing a Sidewalk, Trails & Path Network 

Upgrade pedestrian crossings over Hwy. 35 (at Water, 

Newcastle and Booth) for pedestrians and cyclists. 

Possibilities include: pavement markings, trees, replace 

separated right turn channel with a right turn lane, install a 

planted centre median and pedestrian refuge island, reduce 

curb turning radii. 



stakeholders and determine if a more 

detailed analysis and design is needed. 

Planning 

Transportation, MTO and 

Works 

CIA Committee 

Connect the new Canadian Tire to downtown (along 

Riverwalk trail and Water St.) with designated space for 

walkers and cyclists. 





Transportation and Works 

Connect the Riverwalk Trail to the Cultural Centre , Arena 

and Community Centre with sidewalks and trails. 




Riverwalk Committee 

Recreation 

Upgrade the Minden Walking Trail (too wet in places) 

perhaps with a board walk. Make it more accessible to 

bikes and wheelchairs. 




Connect Panorama Park with downtown by trail. Conduct a feasibility analysis with 



Add a trail at the sewage plant that connects Orde Street 

with Deep Bay Rd. and add a sidewalk or paved shoulder 

along Deep Bay Rd. to town. 

Connect McKay to Highland Gate by trail to accommodate 

bikes. 







Add sidewalks on Highland Gate and Knob Hill Conduct a feasibility analysis with 




groups 

Recreation 


Recreation 


Recreation, Residents 


Recreation, Residents 



Residents 


22

23 


For Completing a Sidewalk, 

Trails & Path Network 

Connect Teasdale to Hwy 35 (at 

“Tim’s”) with walk and bike trail 


Conduct a rough feasibility analysis with stakeholders and 

determine if a more detailed analysis and design is needed. 

Recreation Dept. 

Transportation, MTO and Works 

Create guidelines for new 

development outlining required right 

of way for AT related improvements 

(see also section 7.1 Priority: 

Planning for Growth and New 

Development) 

Clarify any policies or design standards regarding sidewalks, 

trails and bicycle facilities to ensure consistency in an active 

transportation network. For example: Road and trail standards 

should maximize safety and separation between motor vehicles 

and pedestrians / cyclists. 

There could be an AT classification system with some minimum 

standards (i.e. widths, materials, signage) and a number of 

general categories 

• Off-road recreation trail (cycling, walking) 

• Off-road hiking trail 

• On-road cycling (paved shoulders, cycling lanes or signed 

routes) 

• Sidewalks at commercial, residential, etc. 

See other Ontario precedents. 

(Appendix ‘E’). 


“Draft Checklist for Planners to 

Design Active Communities”, 

created by HKPR District Health 

Unit (Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine 

Ridge District Health Unit, 2007) 

Update all policies related to road 

reconstruction, resurfacing and 

other improvements to incorporate 

active transportation infrastructure in 

the planning, design and budgeting 

stages. Consult with the advisory 

body overseeing the Cycling Master 

Plan to ensure coordination. 

See “complete streets” policy Section 7.1 

Review the schedule for all road improvement projects over the 

next 5 to 10 years and cross-reference with Minden’s AT Plan to 

determine where there are opportunities to include missing AT 

infrastructure. 

Planning Dept. 

County Roads Dept., 


MTO and Works Dept., 

Recreation Dept. and 

Other stakeholders / user groups 

incl. Haliburton Highlands Cycling 

Coalition, CIA Committee 


Priority Active Transportation Network Improvements 


24

25 

7.4 Priority: Maintenance of existing sidewalk and trail infrastructure 

Vision: Well-maintained sidewalks and trails throughout Minden connect people to all destinations and encourage active transportation 

(Minden Focus Groups, 2007). 

Efforts have been made in Minden to incorporate barrier free, wheel chair accessible sidewalk retro-fits. However other areas are 

bumpy and broken and require maintenance. Walks and ramps appear to have been constructed at different times and are 

inconsistent. It’s not clear if consistent accessibility guidelines are in place for repairs or new construction. 

Public consultations and research revealed that maintenance is a high priority for the people of Minden. Participants suggested that a 

special consultation be held to talk just about accessibility issues. 


Maintenance of existing 

sidewalk and trail 

infrastructure 

Survey existing conditions in 

Minden to identify exact 

locations (for repairs, 

replacements, curb cuts, and 


Utilize existing background information from The Communities 

in Action Committee (CIA). They have photos and walkability 

assessments for all streets with sidewalks in town. 

missing walks). Survey or interview people using wheelchairs to get 

recommendations for priority projects. 

Establish a capital budget figure for annual sidewalk 

improvements and incorporate targeted improvements and 

repairs into the Five Year Capital Improvements Plan. 

Transportation and Works Dept. 


CIA Committee 

Business Association (for commercial 

areas) 

County Accessibility Committee 

Include sidewalk maintenance in annual roads budget. 

Review public input on snow 

removal and identify areas for 

improved service or targeted 

public awareness campaigns 

regarding property owner 

responsibilities. 

Launch a public service announcement in the fall regarding 

responsibility for snow removal and an information phone line. 



CIA Committee 


7.5 Priority: Downtown Improvements and Boosting Tourism 

“I think that it [AT] needs to be moved up on the priority list – good for business downtown, good for health and handicapped people 

getting around” (Participant, Minden Focus Groups, 2007) 

Minden merchants are organizing to strategize on strengthening Minden’s retail sector. Many of the AT projects listed would 

compliment the merchant’s revitalization efforts – most notably the desire to connect the highway commercial district with the downtown 

retail. Initiatives listed in the above two sections will also make sidewalks and shops more accessible and improve the overall 

pedestrian / shopper experience. 

In addition to repairing the existing infrastructure, two other priorities were raised consistently - the intersections are dangerous at 

Bobcaygeon Rd. where it intersects both Water St. and further south at Newcastle St. They appear to be designed to move cars at the 

expense of having a safe pedestrian crossing. Currently the intersections are “uncontrolled”. Pedestrians are likely taking extra 

precautions when crossing and that can be a good thing for safety’s sake. The research outlines several strategies to increase pedestrian 

safety, 1. speed reduction, 2. separation (i.e. signals, stops) and 3. visibility (i.e. lights, pavement markings). Speed reduction is the most 

effective. (Retting et al) 

Generally, there appears to be unused road space along the width of Bobcaygeon Rd. in the downtown core which could potentially be 

converted to sidewalk space. 

Other downtown improvement opportunities include: making the alleyway connections brighter and more inviting; providing space for AT on 

Pritchard Lane; encouraging places downtown for people to live (see Priority 7.1 above); encouraging hotel accommodations; and 

reviewing the bus depot for possible improvements. 


Downtown Improvements & 

Boosting Tourism 

Reconfigure the intersections of 

Bobcaygeon Rd. at Water St and at 

Newcastle St. so that they include 

signals or 3-way stop signs and wellmarked 

crossings (using distinct 

paving and markings) for pedestrians. 


Conduct an on-site design review with transportation engineer 

and stakeholders to review report recommendations and discuss 

first steps to provide safer pedestrian crossings. 

Review any road resurfacing/re-construction scheduled for the 

immediate area. 


Business / Tourism Association 

CIA Committee 

See also illustrations with notes at end of this section. 


26


Downtown Improvements 

& Boosting Tourism 

There appears to be excess 

roadway width on Bobcaygeon 

Road downtown which could 

be given over to sidewalks, 

trees, benches, lighting and 

bike parking. 


Review curb-to-curb dimensions and establish minimum parking 

and driving lane widths and minimum turning radii through town. 

If and when road is reconstructed excess roadway can be 

allocated to sidewalks & tree planted boulevard. 


Business / Tourism Association and 

CIA Committee 

Bobcaygeon Rd. bridge over 

the Gull River: repair and in 

future, widen the bridge’s 

narrow walkways. 

Review downtown area for 

visual and physical 

obstructions on the sidewalks. 

Review downtown area lighting 

levels for pedestrian safety 

especially at intersections and 

two laneways. 

Pritchard Lane is an undefined 

roadway and parking area; it is 

unclear where the lane ends 

and parking begins, and where 

pedestrians should be. 

Review schedule for bridge re-construction, ensure AT (wider 

walk and space for bicycle lane) is considered in design. 

Perhaps minimize car lanes and re-build wider walkway. 

Consider closing the existing bridge walks and installing 

separate pedestrian bridges parallel to existing bridge. 

Conduct periodic walks to review visual and physical 

obstructions including walks in disrepair. Remove or prune up 

any plantings, low hanging baskets (laneway) that will grow at 

eye level or possibly obstruct sight lines between cars and 

pedestrians. Relocate any sidewalk obstructions (boxes, 

planters) that may restrict pedestrian flow. 

Conduct a night time walk with stakeholders to review lighting 

levels. Where possible adjust fixtures and wattage of bulbs. Set 

out priority improvements. 

. Designate road curbs, and sidewalks. Explore the use of 

temporary curbs / planters to separate road from parking and 

define an area for pedestrians. 

Add overhead sign or archway to demarcate the pedestrian 

laneway entry points that link through to Bobcaygeon. 


Business / Tourism Association 

CIA Committee 

Conservation / flood-control Authority 

(for reconstruction) 



CIA Committee 



CIA Committee 

County Accessibility committee 




CIA Committee 


27 



Downtown Improvements & 

Boosting Tourism 

Review signage and town entry 

features: strategize on 

establishing visible entry features 

on main roads into town and on 

Highway 35. Establish possible 

locations. See possible locations 

on AT Network Plan Section 7.3. 

At the Grey Hound Bus stop: 

review conditions and identify 

possible improvements to make 

visitors feel welcome and 

comfortable, i.e., establish a 

covered waiting area with seating, 

perhaps a notice board. 


“Entry feature” should directing people to attractions, 

incorporate lighting, plantings, and create a “gateway“ 

effect to slow traffic and mark the Village entrances. 

Highlight Timberfest, Cultural Centre, Riverwalk, 

Downtown Commercial, Park the Car and Get Movin’ 

campaign, etc. Improve signage both in town and to 

direct traffic to downtown. Signage needs to have a 

consistent look, colour scheme, message etc.. 

Stakeholders could prioritize locations and apply for 

municipal or external funds. 

Meet with representative from McMahon's Feed store 

to discuss possibilities. 



CIA Committee 


Tourism 


Tourism 

McMahon’s feed store 

Generate ideas for the ice cream 

stand, gazebo and boat launch 

area. 

Hold a meeting or a competition or survey residents 

on design and/or activities that might happen there. 


CIA committee 

Owner of Twistee Treat 


Review options for cultural 

programming downtown, 

especially programming that 

includes youth (i.e. host a 

Saturday afternoon music jam, 

theatre, etc.) 

Conduct a follow-up to the ASES charrette to 

strategize on possible cultural programming 

downtown. 

Recreation Dept., Cultural Centre 

CIA committee 

Minden Youth 



28

29 





30

31 

7.6 Priority: Promoting a Culture of Walking and Active Transportation (AT) in Minden 

Vision: Opportunities and information that promote AT within Minden are readily available. (Minden Focus Groups, 2007) 

Creating a culture of walking and cycling isn’t done overnight. Education campaigns can happen on a number of fronts but the key is 

to keep up the effort over time. The CIA has initiated much of this work and will need to keep the momentum going by continuing to 

foster support and partnering with relevant agencies and groups. Support will be needed especially when budgetary matters arise. It 

will be important to continue to share the results of the research and provide other opportunities for the public to get involved. Health, 

safety and quality of life are factors that resonate most with people and should be central to the AT messages. The following points 

were made by workshop and research participants: 

“Campaign – Park the Car and Get Movin’, is good but more people need to know about it.” 

“Educate people about crossing safely [and] educate drivers to yield to pedestrians through 

signage and other visual cues” “Reduce speeding everywhere, specifically: lower the speed 

limit on Deep Bay Rd. into town from Bobcaygeon past Orde St.” 

“Open up the street” with a Car Free Day on Main St. in summer.” 

“Make existing trails and routes more user friendly by adding benches, trees, waste baskets 

and signage” “Add bike racks at key locations - could do this right away – need locations. 

Perhaps on Main St., near the Cultural Centre and highway commercial areas.” 

“Sort out “shared use” snow mobiles, etc.” 

“Minden’s sesquicentennial is coming up in 2009. Many of these projects could be part of that celebration (i.e. pedestrian bridge, bike 

racks and Riverwalk opening)” 



Promoting a Culture of Walking & AT 

in Minden 

Create a “Village Active Transportation 

Furnishings Plan” to establish locations for 

benches, trees, waste baskets, bike racks 

and signage. 

Continue to celebrate the work that has 

been done to support AT in Minden 


Create a student summer project: create a draft 

plan, host a public meeting and finalize (see Section 

8.0) 

Celebrate the sesquicentennial with the opening of 

the pedestrian bridge as part of Minden’s bigger 

plans to prioritize AT. 

U-Links, CIA Committee 

Business association 



CIA Committee 

CIA Committee and municipal staff to host regular 

updates (perhaps two a year) and highlight progress 

on the AT plan. 



CIA.to announce updates to the plan and “tips” in 

popular media (radio / newspaper/web) 

Continue to promote the “Park the Car and 

Get Movin!’” campaign and utilize Minden’s 

Active Transportation Map. 

Promote safe walking and cycling for 

children. 

Review successes in Haliburton and model materials 

distribution based on lessons learned. 

Archie Stouffer Elementary School to conduct traffic 

safety workshops with students and determine 

feasibility / interest in a walking school bus. 

CIA Committee 

Health Unit 

Health Unit 

ASES 

Business Association to determine interest 

in a day or weekend long street festival 

downtown “Opening up the streets 

downtown”. 

Review the effectiveness of posted speed 

limits and possible reductions in residential 

and school areas. 

Coordinate schedule with other nearby weekend 

festivals. Perhaps incorporate with an existing event 

in Minden. 

Police and transportation to conduct review of 

speeding patterns. 

Police 

Business association 

County Tourism Marketing 

Coordinator 


Police 


32

8.0 Implementation Strategy 

The purpose of the Active Transportation Plan for Minden is to provide guidelines and 

recommendations for improving conditions for walking, cycling and other active modes of 

transportation. The list of recommendations is extensive and will take time, commitment and 

partnership. Many of the recommendations will require creative approaches to securing funding 

(refer to potential funding sources in section 9.0 Resources). Some will be doable in the shortterm, 

while others will require a more long-term approach. 

Next Steps 

8.1 Review and ratify a “working 

draft” of the Minden AT Plan 

Details 

All members of the CIA to review the AT plan. 

8.2 CIA to present the AT Plan 

to Minden Hills Council 

8.3 CIA to advocate for an 

Active Transportation 

Committee at the County 

Request that: 

• The AT Plan be adopted as a “Working Draft”. 

• Priority projects on municipal roads (as identified by the 

AT Plan and CIA) be included in a list of upcoming 

“Road Needs Studies” 

o 

Possible first project: A feasibility study be 

conducted and costed for implementing 3-way stop 

signs or signals, and pavement markings for 

pedestrians at Water and Bobcaygeon, at 

Bobcaygeon and Parkside St. and at Bobcaygeon 

and Newcastle St.. 

• AT be Incorporated into Minden’s Capital 

Improvements Budget and that 7 % of annual Municipal 

Works Transportation budget (recommended by 

Canada’s Go-for-Green) be allocated to improving 

Minden’s AT. Network. 

Request that: 

• Priority projects on Haliburton County roads in Minden 

(as identified by the AT Plan and CIA) be included in 

upcoming “Road Needs Studies” 

• 7% (recommended by Canada’s Go-for-Green”) of 

annual Municipal Works Transportation budget be 

allocated to improving Minden’s AT Network on County 

Roads. 

• An Active Transportation Coordinator or committee be 

established at the County as a resource to lower and 

upper tier efforts to improve AT throughout the County. 

33 



Next Steps 

8.4 Meet with the 

area M.P.P. and 

Ministry of 


Details 

Representative stakeholders to table the AT Plan and review options 

for improvements along Highway 35. 

8.5 Meet with the 

newly forming 

BIA in Minden 

8.6 Review and 

endorse criteria 

for ranking 

projects so that 

decisions are 

transparent and 

stakeholders 

understand how 

decisions are 

made. 

8.7 Set some 

targets for 

completing 

measurable 

tasks. 

Representative stakeholders to review the AT Plan with particular 

attention on Section 7.0. Conduct a walking tour and identify strategic 

initiatives, quick wins and longer term priority projects. Document 

overlapping priority projects and incorporate into BIA 

The report outlines priority projects for the people of Minden. The 

project ideas in the report have been consistently identified in the 

various consultations and bodies of recent research conducted in 

Minden. 

In order to rank the projects the following are some suggested criteria. 

• The project is in an area with a high number of seniors and 

children 

• The project meets some overlapping agendas (i.e. improving 

safety or accessibility, downtown revitalization, activity for youth, 

cycling planning, completing missing network links) 

• The project sets important strategic planning directions for 

improving AT infrastructure 

• The project coincides with upcoming, time-sensitive opportunities 

(i.e. sesquicentennial events or a scheduled road reconstruction) 

• The project is relatively doable “quick-start” (i.e. smaller, definable 

scope, relatively smaller budget required) to balance out the 

longer term projects and provide momentum and visible 

achievements 

• The project idea is technically feasible, i.e. is there sufficient room 

in the right-of way to accommodate the proposed infrastructure 

• The project is budgeted in a way that won’t overwhelm the pool of 

resources for capital improvements 

Establish targets for length of walks, bike lanes and trails. For 

example: “Minden will complete ___ Km of recreation trails by 2010.” 

“Minden will install ____ bike parking spots by _____.” 



34

Next Steps 

8.8 Arrange an AT 

Plan review 

meeting twice a 

year. 

Details 

In order to integrate this plan it is recommended that the CIA 

Committee or AT Coordinator pull together representatives twice a year 

to review progress and priorities. Representatives should include 

parties responsible for: 

• Parks and Recreation 

• Trails in town 

• Health 

• Local non-governmental groups, parent representatives, citizen 

organizations 

• Planning (Development approvals and the Official Plan) 

• Accessibility 

• Transport Infrastructure (Upper and Lower tier) 

• A municipal “green plan” or climate change representative if 

available 

• School Board planning representative and parent council 

• Business Association 

8.9 Publicize the AT 

Plan 

Publicize and provide opportunity for feedback (i.e. utilize upcoming 

Sesquicentennial events to publicize progress on improving AT in 

Minden. Showcase the plan and/or projects (i.e. Riverwalk). Highlight 

opportunities for citizens to get involved in implementing the plan 

8.10 CIA Committee 

to assist 

stakeholders in 

developing 

tasks over a 

two-year horizon 

Task Force to 

• Review project selection criteria (Section 8.6) and target one or 

two doable, publicly visible or time-sensitive projects for the first 

two years (i.e. bike parking plan & installation, Official Plan to 

include AT as per section 7.1) 

• Strategize on options for keeping the AT Plan alive and updated 

– identify resources and supports (possible County coordinator 

position or rotating Chair) 

35 



9.0 Resources 

Municipal Transportation Resources 

• Set a Five Year Capital Improvement Plan for Active Transportation projects to 

create a budget for improvements. 

• AT infrastructure needs to be integrated into the overall transportation infrastructure 

budget. Allocate a percentage of the municipal transportation budget for active 

transportation (7% recommended by Canada’s Go for Green organization). 

• Implementing a “Complete Streets” policy will ensure all road reconstructions, 

widenings and new roads incorporate facilities for walking and cycling. 

• For new development, implement a policy (see section 7.1) outlining any physical 

improvements that will be required in the public right of way. These improvements 

typically include sidewalks, lighting, trees, bicycle parking and perhaps decorative 

paving. 

Recreation Resources 

• Recreation improvements can include AT infrastructure (i.e. trails) as outlined in the 

recreation needs assessment. 

People and Partnerships 

• Committed people are a critical resource. The members of the CIA Committee have 

been and will continue to be committed to improving Active Transportation in Minden 

and Haliburton. It will be critical to continue to foster support in the municipal offices 

and in other stakeholder groups. 

• The CIA Committee and/or the AT coordinator (should that position be realized) 

should continue to track funding opportunities from outside funders that have been 

historically supportive of trails and related infrastructure (i.e. Trillium) see below. 

An Active Transportation Plan for Minden www.publicspaceworkshop.ca 36

Other Potential Resources 

• The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Green Municipal Fund for 

municipal governments (for plans, feasibility studies and capital projects). 

www.sustainablecommunities.fcm.ca 

• The Provincial Municipal Investment Initiative (revenue from the gas tax) 

http://www.infrastructureontario.ca/en/miii/index.asp 

• Upper tier regional “partnership plan” funds for transportation infrastructure. 

• Bicycle Trade Association of Canada – provides grants for advocacy initiatives. 

http://www.btac.org/grant_program.html 

• Transport Canada’s Moving on Sustainable Transportation grants program 

http://www.tc.gc.ca/programs/environment/most/aboutmost.htm 

Approximate Capital Costs 

• Widening a road for paved shoulders - $ 34,000 / lin. Km (CIA committee and 

Lennox and Addington County precedent) 

• Paved recreation Path – $225,000 / km 

• Striping Bicycle lanes – $20,000 / km 

• By comparison: Widen a two lane arterial road to four lanes – $1.3 million / km. 

• (Metrolinx, 2008) 

37 



Appendix ‘A’. 

Summary of Recent Public Consultations and Research on Active Transportation in 

Minden 

The following are reports on consultations, research and workshops conducted recently in 

Minden on the topics of transportation and related issues. They provide the foundations for 

the Minden AT Plan described throughout this document. 

1. Findings from Focus Groups in Minden Neighbourhoods (3pgs) 

Heather Reid, U-Links Centre for Community Based Research 

3 Themes 

o Infrastructure - Connectivity “Lots of sidewalks that go nowhere.” 

o Safety (social – perceptions of safety and physical – well maintained accessible trails 

and walks) 

o Promotion - accessibility and a walking culture. Tell people where things are -need a 

map with signage to parking and places 

2. Active Transportation Quotient - Observation & Analysis of Streets (23 pgs) 

Stacey Schell and Kate Hall, U-Links Centre for Community Based Research 

o Counts in June, July, August 2007. Graphs, for 15 individual streets and public 

places 

o Surveys 

• Demographics 

• Preferred mode of travel 

• Distance from town 

• Barriers 

• Most poplar suggestions 

o Graph of transportation modes used. 

3. The Built Environment and AT in Minden, Ontario (95 pgs), 

Amanda McLachlan and Jenn Robus, Trent University, April 2007 

o Focus on Rural 

o Surveys: Patterns of AT and Barriers 



38

Barriers: 

o Distances are too great in rural areas, everything too spread out 

o Weather / maintenance (repair and snow removal) 

o No bike paths 

o No time (to walk / bike) 

Solutions 

o Connections needed 

o People want more trails, longer, better maintenance 

1. Bike paths and lanes 

2. Safety downtown / bridge 

3. More sidewalks especially on the urban fringe, better sidewalks 

4. Hwy 35 needs sidewalks. Water and Newcastle need sidewalks to Hwy 35. 

4. Walk21 Roadshow Report Haliburton/Minden (5 pgs) Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge 

District Health Unit, April 17, 2007, Sue Shikaze and Kate Hall, CIA Commitee 

o Minden / Haliburton were case studies for International Walk21 conference in 

Toronto 

o Looking for commitment from decision makers and build broad support 

o Looking for a collective vision – suggested International Charter for Walking 

o Minden Adopt an AT plan 

o Assets and Challenges identified 

5. Active and Safe Routes to School Archie Stouffer Elementary School, (13 pgs.) 

Students Survey Results and Discussion: Results March 2007, Stacey Schell and Kate Hall, 

U-Links Centre for Community Based Research 

o Surveyed households with children in 

grades 2-8 

What are your favourite places 

to walk/bike/skateboard in 

o 180 returned surveys 

Minden? 

o Method of travel 

o My street 

o My neighbourhood 

o Identified barriers o Rotary park 

• < 2km from school 

o Schoolyard 

o Fairgrounds 

• Weather o Downtown 

• Time 

o Woods 

• 2-4km from school 

39 



• Distance 

• Safety 

o 

o 

• Traffic What would make it easier to 

> 4km from school 

walk/bike/board to school?? 

o Living closer 

• Distance o Sidewalks or trails 

All groups of students, regardless of the 

o Crosswalk 

o Crossing guard 

distance of their home from the school, 

o Walking buddy 

reported relatively high rates of activity. 

o Direct path 

o Road conditions 

What would make it safer to 

o Road safety rules 

walk/bike/board to school? 

o Bike rack/safety equipment 

o Sidewalks, paths, lanes 

o Traffic reduce speeding / 

o Crosswalk 

calming 

o Crossing guards 

o Speed and traffic following rules 

o Friends Visible safety zone 

o Safety gear 

o Signals/lights 

o Signage 

o No cars in school zone 

6. Township of Minden Hills Sports and Recreation Needs Assessment 

dmA Planning and Management Services, December 2007 

Key findings 

• Overall, the most common recreational activities that adults in respondent households 

had participated in around the Township of Minden Hills in the past year were ‘soft trail 

activities’ (60%), followed by ‘outdoor summer aquatics’ (33%), and ‘hard trail activities’ 

(20%) 

• The leading activities that adults would like to participate in but are not are ‘pool 

programs’ (38%),‘fitness/wellness programs’ (13%), and ‘court sports’ / ‘hard trail 

activities’ (9% each) 

• 68% cited “lack of facilities” as reason for not participating 

• Youth (12-19) 

o In only 10% of households 

o The leading activities ‘outdoor summer aquatics (43%), followed by ‘hard trail 

activities’ (36%), and ‘soft trail activities (34%) 

• 13% of households have children under 12 



40

• Most common physical activities that children participate in are ‘hard trail activities’ 

(39%), ‘outdoor summer aquatics’ (36%), and ‘soft trail activities’ (33%) 

• Overall, 8 of 10 respondents think that all adult members of their household are 

physically active enough to be healthy 

7. Projects to Improve Active Transportation, Walking and Biking in Minden 

(workshop report): 

Paul Young, Public Space Workshop, Evening of October 15, 2007. 

Purpose of the meeting: 

1. To review existing projects promoting AT in Minden 

2. To identify priority projects that would improve AT in Minden 

Ideas in order of priority: 

• Trail improvements / connecting trails 

• School zone / traffic calming / educate children 

• Maintenance of existing sidewalks and laneways 

• Policy changes 

• Connecting existing sidewalks and adding missing ones 

• Realize the Master Plan for Riverwalk 

• Main Street (improve intersections at Water and Newcastle) 

• Add bike racks at key locations 

There is a section on “Identified Resources” and “Opportunities”. 

41 



8. First Impressions Community Exchange Final Report 

Through the Rural Economic Development Program at OMAFRA, a team of people from 

Madoc visited Minden to give their impressions on a range of experiences in Minden 

regarding the quality of existing infrastructure and the downtown. 

Quality and availability of residential infrastructure (e.g., roads. Sidewalks, lighting, 

public transportation, green space): 

• Not enough sidewalks for older residents 

• Handicap accessibility on sidewalks 

• Lack of availability of local transit due to fact that community is spread out; 

• More green space needed 

High school: 

• 20 min drive away 

Downtown Area 

Ease of locating the downtown: 

• No, confusing. Where’s main entrance? What is your main street? 

Mix of facilities and services in the Downtown: 

• Missing grocery store; recreation-type services needed; no theatre; 

• More signage needed on 35 directing people downtown. Use the River – a 

destination, picnic area, benches 

• Encourage apartments above shops for places to live downtown 

• Community facilities and infrastructure not accessible to people with disabilities 

• Create some attractions or programs for youth 

Other suggestions from the First Impressions Team: 

• Establish a main street revitalization committee 

• Borrow copy of Madoc’s Community Improvement Plan for 

building improvements 

• Really work to do direct traffic downtown (signage) 

• Improve/tidy curbing and sidewalks 

• Improve/replace dilapidated signage 

• Remove defunct ice cream stand 

• Utilize or remove abandoned gazebo 

• Explore addition of pedestrian bridge(s) across river 

• Explore a skate park 

• Line markers on streets require some fresh paint 



42

9. Archie Stouffer Elementary School Active Transportation Charrette: Final Report, 

Heather Reid, U-links Centre for Community Based Research, March 31, 3008 

Students from grades 4-8 described their vision and ideas for improving the town’s planning 

and transportation. Getting around in a rural area can be extremely challenging for 

students. Students were asked how they would design Minden so that they could get 

around easily and safely. They were also asked to describe how the town might look. 

There were three main areas that students frequent: Hwy 35, the downtown and recreation 

areas. A chart lists 39 locations and their popularity. The report outlines favourite walking 

and biking routes. Problem areas include Bobcaygeon Rd. crossing at Parkside Dr. and the 

icy hill up towards the school entrance; cycling in the downtown area; narrow bridge walk; 

poor access to Rotary Park and other destinations on Hwy 35 and poor access to Highland 

Gate. 

Recommended areas for action include 

• The elementary school area / Bobcaygeon Rd. 

• Minden Bridge 

• Highway 35 to Rotary Park 

Students provided a list of other facilities/activities they would like to see and expressed a 

desire for some form of public transportation to destinations elsewhere in the county. 

Results were presented to Council. 

43 



Appendix ‘B’ - The Active Communities Charter 

Appendix ‘B’ Communities in Action Charter 



44

Appendix ‘C’ - Comments on Section 5 of the current Official Plan 

for Minden 

The following comments are examples of how the existing official plan policies for Minden 

Hills might be adapted in order to include active transportation. Italicized font indicates 

Official Plan text in its current form. Suggested modifications are underlined. 

Section 5.1 

Transportation infrastructure is linked to targeted growth areas. Transportation is integral to 

developing “Active Communities”. Transportation should be incorporated or crossreferenced 

throughout the section on Community Design. Include a requirement that all 

developments, public facilities and transportation infrastructure be designed as “barrier free” 

(handicapped accessible). 

Section 5.2 

5.2.1 Regarding Community Design 

Location and design of roads 

Replace the word “roads” with “ transportation infrastructure including roads, 

sidewalks, on-street trails, recreation trails and off road multi use trails.” 

”Community integration” 

Replace with “Community integration and connectedness” 

5.2.2 Regarding the viability of the commercial core 

Through traffic will be redirected (add “or calmed by designing the right-of-way for 

pedestrian priority”) to maintain the destination function of the core area and improve 

the environment for pedestrians; 

A mix of retail, small business, residential intensification and institutional uses is 

encouraged in the downtown core; Add: efforts will made to incorporate all new retail 

adjacent to the downtown core as a natural extension of the existing retail fabric. 

45 



Definition and softening of the visual impact of large parking areas in the core 

should be implemented. Add: “using curbs, designated walkways, shade trees, low 

shrubs and lighting.” 

5.2.3 New commercial development 

Access for pedestrians and cyclists should be incorporated in site design Add: “and 

include designated walks along street frontage connecting to main entrance, bicycle 

parking, trees where feasible and lighting;” 

Pedestrian friendly streetscapes are encouraged through the use of overhead 

canopies, bollards, flags, flagpoles and small ‘village greens’; Add: “street trees, 

pedestrian scale signage, bicycle parking, lighting and where required, decorative 

paving.” 

Development along Highway 35 shall take into account the need to maintain proper 

traffic flow through the area Add: “while maintaining safe, separated access for 

cyclists and pedestrians both along and across Highway 35 and from Highway 35 to 

the building entries”. 

5.2.4 Regarding Subdivision Design 

Alternative development standards will be used to encourage Add: pedestrian and 

cycling friendly” street types, and neighbourhood character; 

A mix of housing types Add: “and densities” will be encouraged; 

Pedestrian Add: “and cycling” facilities, including sidewalks and links with schools, 

recreation facilities, and commercial areas, will be part of the development; 

5.2.5 The main entrances to the Village 

The main entrances to the Village Add: “can send a strong signal to motor vehicles 

that they are in a village and are to slow down. Entry features can” create an 

impression of the community and require specific design considerations to “ensure 

traffic slows down and understands how to get to the downtown commercial and 

cultural destinations” and to reflect the character of the Village. Streetscape 



46

improvements, curb alignments, trees, sidewalks, lighting and” regulation of signs 

and parking areas will be important components in any strategy to improve the 

“effectiveness and” visual features of the entrances. 

5.4 Residential Areas 

5.4.4 This Plan does not provide separate designations for low, medium and high 

density areas. More than one residential zone will be used in the Zoning By-law to 

differentiate between the densities, and to direct higher density uses to specific 

areas. In general, medium and high density uses should be located in the vicinity of 

commercial and institutional uses, near the downtown core, along major streets, and 

serviced with municipal water and sewer services Add: “ideally within a 15 minute 

walk or 1 km. of shopping, recreation and other everyday destinations”. 

5.5 Employment Areas 

Uses should be readily accessible to motorists, Add: “pedestrians, people with 

disabilities and cyclists” and ingress and egress points should be limited in number, 

readily distinguishable, “have defined access walkways for pedestrians” and be 

separated by landscaped boulevards wherever possible; 

Pedestrian access and facilities with links to existing areas should be encouraged 

“by providing a separated and defined bicycle and walking route along the road 

frontage and connecting to the building entry”; 

Add: ``Uses will incorporate bicycle parking (covered where possible) as a 

percentage of overall parking.`` 

5.6 Open Space 

5.6.2 Existing open space and recreational facilities should be integrated into the 

overall system so they are effectively used Add: “for both recreation purposes and 

everyday utilitarian trips.” Significant natural features will be part of the open space 

network in the Village. 

47 



5.9 Other Land Uses 

5.9.2.3 Pedestrian walkways, Add: “bicycle lanes and multi-use recreation trails” 

should link public facilities to each other and to residential areas. Special attention 

will be given to developing additional pedestrian and bicycle linkages to existing 

recreation facilities. 

5.9.2.9 Access to schools will be a major consideration when reviewing subdivision 

applications. Schools must be easily accessible by pedestrians Add: “and cyclists” 

and be linked by walking paths “bicycle lanes and multi-use recreation trails” to other 

public facilities and services. 

5.9.2.11 As the population in the Township ages, more attention will have to be given 

to housing for the elderly. Policies promoting home-based care will allow seniors to 

stay in residential units as they age. To accommodate this, the following options will 

generally be considered: 

implementing alternative development standards that allow smaller setbacks Add: 

“streets, lane widths, turning radii”, and yards; 

allowing mixed use neighbourhoods ;Note: Recommended but need to revise 5.4.6 

Add: Provide well lit, barrier free sidewalks along adjacent streets and from the 

sidewalk to the main entrance(s) of the building. 

5.10 Expansion of Boundaries 

5.10.3 Such expansion will be considered within the following context: 

an efficient road pattern will be maintained and established with proper Add: 

“pedestrian, bicycle and motor vehicle” access and links to any Township, County or 

Provincial Road; and, 



48

Appendix ‘D’ – Standards and Guidelines Resources 

Source: City of Hamilton Cycling Master Plan, Design Guidelines for Bikeways, 

http://www.myhamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/8A33AEA8-ACC8-422F-B537- 

C4C5856FCF13/0/DesignGuideforBikeways.pdf 

pg. 23 

Other sources for design standards 

Chicago Bike Lane Design Guide 

http://www.activelivingresources.org/assets/chicagosbikelanedesignguide.pdf 

Velo Quebec http://www.velo.qc.ca/english/index.php?page=publications 

Institute of Transportation Engineers 

1. Context Sensitive Solutions in Designing Major Urban Thoroughfares for Walkable 

Communities, 2006. http://www.ite.org/bookstore/RP036.pdf 

2. Promoting Sustainable Transportation Through Site Design, 2004 

http://www.cite7.org/Technical_Projects/Final%20Proposed%20Recommended%20 

Practice%20RP-035.pdf 

49 



Appendix ‘E’ - Map: Walk, Bike and Be Active in Minden 

An Active Transpor tation Plan for Minden www.publicspaceworkshop.ca 

50

51 


References 

A list of research documents that informed this Plan (conducted in Minden). 

1. Findings from Focus Groups in Minden Neighbourhoods Heather Reid, U-Links Centre for 

Community Based Research 

2. Active Transportation Quotient - Observation & Analysis of Streets Stacey Schell and Kate 

Hall, 2007. U-Links Centre for Community Based Research 

3. The Built Environment and AT in Minden, Ontario, Amanda McLachlan and Jenn Robus, Trent 

University, April 2007 

4. Walk21 Roadshow Report Haliburton/Minden (5 pgs)Sue Shikaze and Kate Hall, April 17, 

2007 

5. Active and Safe Routes to School Archie Stouffer Elementary School, Students Survey 

Results and Discussion: Results March 2007 

6. Township of Minden Hills Sports and Recreation Needs Assessment, dmA Planning and 

Management Services, December 2007 

7. Meeting Notes: Projects to Improve Active Transportation, Walking and Biking in Minden 

(workshop report): Paul Young, Public Space Workshop, Oct. 2007 

8. First Impressions Community Exchange Final Report, Madoc Exchange Committee 

9. Archie Stouffer Elementary School Active Transportation Charrette: Final Report, Heather 

Reid, U-links Centre for Community Based Research, March 31, 2008 

Other references 

Central East Local Health Integration Network. A Framework for Community Engagement & Local 

Health Planning: A Proposal, 2006 

The Early Intervention Network of Haliburton County, Building Better Outcomes for Children in 

Haliburton County http://www.hkpr.on.ca/uploadedFiles/Building-1.pdf 

An Active Transportation Plan for Minden www.publicspaceworkshop.ca 52

Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit, Designing Active Communities Together, 

2007. http://www.hkpr.on.ca/healthy-lifestyles-master.asp?id=2702 

Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit, Draft Checklist for Planners to Design 

Active Communities, 2007. http://www.hkpr.on.ca/healthy-lifestyles-master.asp?id=2702 

Go For Green, Making the Case for Active Transportation – Economic Benefits, Fact Sheet 

Number 6, 2006 

Hamilton Transportation Operations and Environment Design Guidelines for Bikeways, 1999 

http://www.myhamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/8A33AEA8-ACC8-422F-B537- 

C4C5856FCF13/0/DesignGuideforBikeways.pdf 

Metrolinx Green Paper No. 3 Active Transportation, February 2008. 

http://metrolinx-consult.limehouse.com/portal/reviewgreenpaper3 

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Provincial Policy Statement ,2005 

http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page1485.aspx 

Ontario Building Code Section 3.8 Barrier-Free Design (This section addresses the current 

standards for accessibility as enforced by local building inspector. All projects pertaining to 

increasing barrier-free access must ensure that they adhere to these codes or higher standards 

like the Canadian Standards Association CSA B651-04 'Accessible design for the built 

environment) 

Ontario Provincial Planners Institute, Healthy Communities Sustainable Communities, the 21 st 

Century Planning Challenge, 2007 

Retting, Richard A., Ferguson, Susan A., and McCartt, Anne T., A Review of Evidence-Based 

Traffic Engineering Measures Designed to Reduce Pedestrian–Motor Vehicle Crashes. American 

Journal of Public Health. 2003 September; 93(9): 1456–1463. 

http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1447993 

Standards for Barrier Free Design of Ontario Government Facilities, Management Board 

Secretariat, October 2004. 

53 



Statistics Canada Cyclist Fatality Trends in Canada Helmet Effect Undetectable in Fatality 

Trends, 2005 http://www.magma.ca/~ocbc/fatals.html 

Statistics Canada, Population Estimates and Projections, Population Estimates by Age and Sex, 

2006. 

http://cansim2.statcan.ca/cgiin/cnsmcgi.exe?Lan=E&ResultTemplate=CST&CORCMD=GetCRel& 

CORId=DEMO10A&CORRel=50 

Trails for All Ontarians Collaborative, Ontario's Best Trails: Guidelines and Best Practices for the 

Design, Construction and Maintenance of Sustainable Trails for All Ontarians - 2006 

http://www.abilitiescentre.org/trails/index.html 



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