The City of Fredericton formed an active transportation committee in October 2005. The group of citizens and city employees looked at ways to improve safety on existing sidewalks, streets and trails, as well as make recommendations on educational and promotional efforts for active transportation. The group also provided input to the Trails / Bikeways Master Plan.
In 2006, SGE Acres Limited (a member of the Hatch group of companies), in association with Marshall Macklin Monaghan, was retained by the City of Fredericton to develop the Trails / Bikeways Master Plan. The overall intent of the Trails / Bikeways Master Plan was to develop a user-friendly network of on-road and off-road facilities for non-motorized movement within the City.
The network will include trails, bikeways, parks, environmental and recreation corridors as well as designated streets that work together to provide alternative and desirable methods for moving around Fredericton with the system working in a cohesive and integrated manner.
The overall goal of this project is to create a well-connected, safe and functional Master Plan. The philosophy of the Master Plan is to meet the needs of all age groups, including those residents and visitors with mobility challenges, by enhancing choices and opportunities for multi-modal travel and recreational pursuits that promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles.
Public consultation was part of the process, with focus group meetings, stakeholder meetings and general public meetings being held.