John Rowswell Hub Trail

Keeping our Trails Safe

The ever-expanding Hub Trail and other active transportation paths have encouraged our community to embrace healthier lifestyles and sustainable transportation, making it easier to reach important destinations and providing recreational opportunities. It is important to follow common courtesy practices on the network so that all users—motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, joggers, pet-walkers, and families—can enjoy and feel safe. Showing courtesy goes a long way in creating a positive community atmosphere.
Here are some common tips to follow:

For Motorists:

• Avoid blocking cyclists and pedestrians: Do not park on the Hub Trail, sidewalks, or within painted bike lanes.

• Check blind spots: Always check for cyclists or pedestrians before turning or changing lanes.

• Use turn signals: Signal your intentions clearly in advance to give cyclists and pedestrians time to react.

• Maintain a safe distance:

  
  
  In Ontario, motorists are legally required to leave a minimum distance of 1 metre (roughly 3 feet) when passing a cyclist. This safe passing law applies to the extreme right side of the motor vehicle and the extreme left side of the bicycle.

  The legislation includes several important specifics to keep in mind:

  • Avoid blocking cyclists and pedestrians: Do not park on the Hub Trail, sidewalks, or within painted bike lanes.
  • Check blind spots: Always check for cyclists or pedestrians before turning or changing lanes.
  • Use turn signals: Signal your intentions clearly in advance to give cyclists and pedestrians time to react.
  • Maintain a safe distance: motorists must leave a minimum distance of 1 metre (roughly 3 feet) when passing a cyclist.

  For more details on road safety and sharing the road, check out the Ontario Bicycle Safety Guide or review the resources from the Share the Road Cycling Coalition. 

For Cyclists:

• Stay right, pass left: Keep to the right side of the path unless passing. When overtaking another user, always pass on the left and signal your approach with a bell or verbal alert.

• Be predictable: Maintain a consistent speed and travel in a straight line. Sudden stops or abrupt movements can catch others off guard.

• Speed limit: All users must adhere to the Hub Trail’s speed limit of 20km/hr.

• Respect trail signage: Follow posted signs and markings. They are designed to ensure the safety and smooth flow of all trail users.

• Yield to pedestrians: Cyclists should yield to pedestrians and be prepared to stop if necessary.

For Pedestrians and Everyone Else:

• Avoid going on private property: Respect other people’s property and privacy by staying on public lands. 

• Leash and clean up after pets: Keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to maintain trail cleanliness.

• Stay alert: Avoid distractions such as mobile phones and earbuds. Be aware of your surroundings and prepared to yield to others as needed.

• Share the trail: Pedestrians should be mindful of their surroundings and avoid walking in the center of the path.

• Ensure sidewalks remain clear: Do not place waste receptacles or other obstacles on sidewalks to maintain accessible and unobstructed pedestrian pathways.
  
  

• Report hazards: If you encounter any hazards or maintenance issues, please report them to Public Works at 705-759-5201 or email pwt@cityssm.on.ca.

By adhering to these tips, we can ensure that our bike paths and multi-use trails remain safe and enjoyable for everyone. We encourage all members of our community to embrace these practices and contribute to a positive outdoor experience.