New pedestrian and cyclist bridge connects neighbourhoods across Highway 7/8

Waterloo Region – The Region of Waterloo, together with federal and provincial representatives, celebrated the official opening of the new Highway 7/8 pedestrian and cyclist bridge today. The new bridge connects neighbourhoods previously separated by the highway and provides a critical link to more frequent transit routes, restaurants, grocery stores, and local businesses.

Connecting Strasburg Road/Chandler Drive to Avalon Place/Southmoor Drive in central Kitchener, the bridge addresses community requests for a north-south connection to enhance transit access, promote active transportation, and help residents move more easily across the region.

This event marks an exciting milestone in expanding the active transportation network and enhancing community connectivity. While residents have enjoyed the bridge since May, today’s event celebrated the collaboration among municipal, provincial, federal governments and community members that made the project possible.

The Highway 7/8 pedestrian and cyclist bridge was funded by a $9.5-million investment from the governments of Canada, Ontario and the Region of Waterloo through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program—Public Transit Infrastructure Stream.

Quotes:
"The completion of this pedestrian and cycling bridge, which is accessible via ramps and staircase, is a step and a pedal toward improving active transportation in Waterloo Region and has already been used by hundreds of citizens. It also reflects the federal government’s commitment to working with all levels of government to build sustainable, accessible infrastructure that puts the people of our community first."
— The Honourable Bardish Chagger, Member of Parliament for Waterloo

“This new bridge strengthens connections between neighbourhoods and supports the way people live, move, and get around every day. Our federal government will continue to invest in infrastructure, like this pedestrian and cyclist bridge, that promotes active transportation, access to transit, and a more connected Kitchener.”
— Tim Louis, Member of Parliament for Kitchener—Conestoga

“Under Premier Ford’s leadership, our government is delivering on our ambitious plan to build Ontario to tackle gridlock, keep workers and families moving, and protect good-paying jobs. The new Highway 7/8 pedestrian and cyclist bridge will connect communities and help make jobs and services more accessible for people in Kitchener."
— Jess Dixon, MPP, Kitchener South-Hespeler

“I am proud to see infrastructure investments, like the new pedestrian and cycling bridge, that keep our community moving and improve quality of life for Kitchener residents. The new bridge will connect neighbourhoods while opening safer, more convenient access to schools, businesses, recreation, and public transit.”

— Mike Harris, MPP, Kitchener-Conestoga.

“We are proud to officially open the Highway 7/8 pedestrian and cyclist bridge, a project that reflects our commitment to building a more connected and sustainable community. This bridge will make it safer and easier for residents to walk, cycle, and roll to access important services in the region”.
— Karen Redman, Chair of the Region of Waterloo

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