Laurentian Valley is letting the County of Renfrew know they do not have any alternative routes to direct snowmobiles off of the Algonquin Trail. The information was discussed as part of the municipal council meeting last week (November 17th).
Chief Administrative Officer Dean Sauriol told members of council when the Algonquin Trail was purchased by the County it was designed to be used four seasons for motorized and non-motorized traffic. Local municipalities who don’t want motorized traffic on the trail are required to find alternate routes.
At this time, Laurentian Valley has not been able to find an alternate route and will continue to allow snowmobiles on the Algonquin Trail. Laurentian Valley, neighboring municipalities and the county have been trying to purchase the abandoned CN rail line for roughly six years, but possible liability concerns and costs drove the two sides apart.
Mayor Steve Bennett says if something comes up in the future they will bring the item back to council. Bennett adds the township still has to make a decision for ATV’s and UTV’s and will look for alternate routes for these motorized vehicles throughout the winter months.
Reeve Debbie Robinson discussed options to mitigate noise for local residents who live nearby the trail. Robinson suggested the mayor meet with the Algonquin Trail committee to see what can be done.
Councillor Brian Hugli said in addition to potential noise buffering, there should be signage and policing to make sure snowmobiles aren’t going off the trail and are staying under the speed limit.
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