Thunder Bay Trails
In 2021, City of Thunder Bay Administration presented a a 15-year 3-phased plan to connect Fisherman’s Park to Prince Arthur’s Landing, and Prince Arthur’s Landing to the Jackknife Bridge in the south.
Drone Video of section of Proposed Waterfront Trail travelling from Fisherman’s Park to Prince Arthur’s Landing.
Existing City trails and proposed extensions are designed for all people-powered transportation: walking, jogging, cycling, roller blading, roller skiing, skateboarding, and personal mobility devices. New and improved trails embody the City of Thunder Bay’s Recreation & Facilities Master Plan which states: “trails provide a significant contribution to the community in terms of health, recreation and education. They promote physical activity which contributes to improved fitness and mental health while making communities more livable. They connect people to the natural surroundings and provide access to even greater recreational opportunities.”
When Port Arthur Rotary member Warren Philp learned of City plans for a largely unfunded Waterfront Trail multi-million dollar expansion, he brought many Thunder Bay active living groups together to talk about a trail association, and by July 2021, the Waterfront Trail Rotary Community Action Team (WTRCAT) (www.parotary.com) was formed.
WTRCAT is a community-backed voice for active living, advocating for the development of key pieces of Thunder Bay’s proposed Waterfront Trail expansion. Members meet on a regular basis to discuss and make recommendations regarding the proposed trail expansion, and to organize trail clean-up, educate citizens about the proposed trail and its benefits, and participate in Council sessions to advocate for trails.
Residing within the Port Arthur Rotary Club under Community Service, WTRCAT has the ability to gain charitable status, and begin to focus on fundraising events and sponsorships to expedite and enhance trail development.
Many Thunder Bay organizations and businesses have expressed firm support for the proposed Waterfront Trail. Approximately 40 letters of support have been received so far.
Our Vision, Mission and Values
Team Vision – the creation of a multi-use all-season recreation trail along the City of Thunder Bay waterfront for people of every age and ability to safely use and enjoy.
Team Mission – support the City of Thunder Bay to build a waterfront trail that improves access to Lake Superior, encourages zero emissions activities, and provides links and spurs to neighbourhoods, businesses, and other communities.
Team Values – We work cooperatively. We believe in equity and fairness. We operate with optimism. We promote health and wellness. We conduct ourselves with accuracy and truth.
What’s Good About Trails?
Existing City of Thunder Bay trails and proposed extensions are designed for all people-powered transportation: walking, jogging, cycling, roller blading, roller skiing, skateboarding, and personal mobility devices. New and improved trails embody the City of Thunder Bay’s Recreation & Facilities Master Plan which states: “trails provide a significant contribution to the community in terms of health, recreation and education. They promote physical activity which contributes to improved fitness and mental health while making communities more livable. They connect people to the natural surroundings and provide access to even greater recreational opportunities.”