Cobourg council has rejected a proposed 2.5 metre multi use path along King Street West, citing safety concerns, as construction work on the corridor begins March 30.
Council considered the shared path option as part of the broader King Street West reconstruction project but ultimately decided against it. Concerns were raised that a 2.5 metre path would not provide sufficient space for both pedestrians and cyclists to safely share the route, particularly along a busy roadway with limited available width.
The design would have required users to occupy the same space in close proximity to vehicle traffic, leading council to determine it was not the safest option. The project will now move forward without the multi use path component.
The decision comes as the Town of Cobourg begins the first phase of construction on King Street West.
According to the Town, work starts March 30 with the relocation of an underground natural gas main by Enbridge Gas contractor NPL Canada. The work will take place between the Cobourg Creek bridge and William and Ontario Streets and is expected to take approximately 10 weeks.
The Town reports that access to properties will be maintained throughout construction. Traffic may be reduced to a single lane during working hours, with two lanes reinstated at the end of each day and traffic control measures in place.
The gas main relocation is required ahead of the larger King Street West reconstruction project, which has been identified as a priority through the Town’s asset management plan.
Future work is expected to include watermain, sanitary and storm sewer replacement, along with full road resurfacing. Road construction is anticipated to begin in June 2026, with additional phases continuing into 2027.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)