WINNIPEG -- A City of Winnipeg committee is proposing to expand a pilot project for cyclists this summer, however, pedestrians will have to wait a bit to use the program this year.

According to the standing policy committee on infrastructure renewal and public works, a total of 14 routes are being proposed for the Enhanced Summer Cycling Route pilot project, which would run from May 3 to November 5.

The paths are only for cyclists, as an amendment needs to be made to the Highway Traffic Act to allow pedestrians to walk on the roads.

The list of routes includes the following:

  • Lyndale Drive—Cromwell Street to Gauvin Street
  • Scotia Street—Anderson Avenue (at St. Cross Street) to Armstrong Avenue
  • Wellington Crescent—Academy Road (at Wellington Crescent) to Guelph Street
  • Wolseley Avenue—Raglan Road to Maryland Street
  • Churchill Drive—Hay Street to Jubilee Avenue
  • Egerton Road—Bank Avenue to Morier Avenue
  • Kildonan Drive—Helmsdale Avenue to Rossmere Crescent and Larchdale Crescent to Irving Place
  • Kilkenny Drive—Burgess Avenue to Patricia Avenue and Kings Drive
  • Rover Avenue—Hallet Street to Stephens Street
  • Youville Street—Eugenie Street to Haig Avenue
  • Alexander Avenue—Arlington Street to Princess Street 
  • Ravelston Avenue—Plessis Road to Wayota Street
  • Linwood Street—Portage Avenue to Silver Avenue
  • Harbison Avenue West—Henderson Highway to eastern terminus

The project would limit traffic on the routes to one lane daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the summer and fall.

Last year, the city opened nine routes for its open streets program in April to help people stay active during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to help ensure physical distancing.

The committee wants the city’s traffic bylaw to be amended to include the new routes for the program.

While the program is currently only for cyclists, the committee is also asking the public service committee to meet with the province to examine a potential amendment to the Highway Traffic Act. The amendment would allow pedestrians to walk on the roadway used for the trails, even when a sidewalk is present.

Coun. Matt Allard said he will work to build support for the plan.

“If this report passes, it will make many more streets candidates for upgrades for active transportation,” he said.

“I think it’s a good report overall, and I think it’s going to need some changes to be supported by council, but I’ll be reaching out to council and working with the public service, to find that report and the right amendments in order for it to pass.”

The issue will be discussed during Thursday’s committee meeting.