Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
STRATHROY-CARADOC - Council approved the next phase of its annual sidewalk program during the May 5 meeting, directing staff to proceed with tendering for a list of new and replacement sidewalks across the municipality. The program is part of a long-term initiative to improve walkability and safety in local neighbourhoods.
Mark Ortiz, Director of Engineering and Public Works, presented the report, noting that the recommendations aim to enhance pedestrian access and bring existing infrastructure up to current accessibility standards.
The two motions—first to receive the report and second to proceed with the tender process—were carried unanimously, with a motion moved by Councillor Steve Pelkman and seconded by Councillor John Brennan.
Councillor Greg Willsie raised a question about the status of sidewalk replacements along Adelaide Road, noting that the area was absent from the current program. “I know they’re narrow. We talked about replacing them for a couple years. Where are we at with the downtown rejuvenation, where we’re going to replace the sidewalks in Adelaide Road?” he asked.
Ortiz explained that while design work is underway, the broader downtown rejuvenation plan has experienced delays. “Design is ongoing… we did have some money allocated for 2025 which we have pushed back to 2026 and onward. That whole program is, I think, around $13 million, give or take,” he said, adding that stakeholder and public engagement would continue through the year, with the goal of preparing a tender-ready project for late 2025 or early 2026.
Mayor Colin Grantham clarified that while Adelaide Road is a county-owned roadway, responsibility for the sidewalks falls to the municipality.
In 2025, the municipality plans to install new sidewalks in key areas of Strathroy and Mount Brydges. On Thorne Drive, a 35-metre segment will connect Deborah Drive to Briscoe Crescent, creating a safer route for students walking to nearby bus stops. On English Street, a 165-metre sidewalk will be added on the north side between Queen Street and the existing sidewalk, selected to avoid hydro poles and minimize impact on driveways. In Mount Brydges, sidewalk replacements are scheduled along Church Street, Wellington Street, Gore Street, John Street, Thomas Street, Wesleyan Street, and Franklin Drive. These sidewalks currently do not meet the AODA minimum width of 1.5 metres and cannot accommodate winter maintenance equipment, leading to pedestrian safety concerns during snow conditions.
The 2025 sidewalk program will proceed with the installations and upgrades identified in the report, focusing on areas that lack accessibility or require improvements to support year-round pedestrian use. Construction is expected to begin later this year, following the tender process.
