2021-06-15 - Infrastructure Canada must determine whether the proposed Abegweit connects project, located in Glenroy, PEI , is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

To help inform this determination, Infrastructure Canada is inviting comments from the public respecting that determination. All comments received will be considered public [and may be posted online]. For more information, individuals should consult the Privacy Notice on the Registry website (https://iaac-aeic.gc.ca/050/evaluations/Protection?culture=en-CA).

Written comments must be submitted by July 15, 2021, to:

Christopher Kobylinski

(343) 343-548-6409

christopher.kobylinski2@canada.ca

The Proposed Project:

The Abegweit Connects project is envisioned to include construction of several active transportation facilities including a grade-separated highway pedestrian underpass (~30m long), roughly 800m of 3.0m wide asphalt multi-use trail along Route 2 through the community, about 850m of 2.5m wide paved trails within the community, and about 150m of elevated boardwalk over a marshy area to access a proposed floating dock on the Hillsborough River. Also, raised gateway median islands will be constructed on Route 2 at each end of the community to help signal a reduced speed limit. The project will also include related support infrastructure such as storm sewer, concrete curb, guide rail, and lighting along Route 2, way-finding and information signage for trail users, interpretive panels, landscaping, trail furniture (i.e. seating, trash receptacles, planters, etc.), boardwalk amenities (i.e. benches, viewing/rest area, etc.), and waterfront infrastructure (i.e. stairs/ramps, watercraft storage, etc.) to support canoeing and kayaking activities on the Hillsborough River. The project will also include replacement/upsizing of several existing culverts under roadways, driveways, and the Confederation Trail. The primary benefits of Abegweit Connects will be to provide the community with new opportunities for healthy lifestyle choices, to provide a safe, direct connection to the Hillsborough River and the Confederation Trail, and to help reconnect residents with their heritage as the river was an essential transportation route and food source for many past generations. The implementation of support infrastructure along Route 2, in conjunction with a reduced speed limit, should encourage lower vehicle speeds for Route 2 traffic within the community and enhance safety for pedestrians/cyclists. This project will also encourage and support new economic development initiatives for Abegweit First Nation, and support the pandemic response and economic recovery efforts by the Province.