I read with interest the letter from the Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory (BPBO), addressing misconceptions about Cabot Head Road in your July 14th issue. The BPBO provides a concise review of efforts in the last 6 years to preserve the beauty and integrity of the shoreline area, including the results of a well-designed community survey. The survey’s findings are clear: 76% of those responding support the conversion of the Cabot Head Road (damaged due to fierce Winter storms) into a multi-use trail for cyclists and hikers. Vehicular access would be limited to authorized users.
For over 26 years I’ve enjoyed the beautiful Georgian Bay shoreline, birding, hiking, cycling and walking. Like many others in the Dyers Bay community, I fully support the recommendations noted in the BPBO article. A Council decision is required. It is essential now to preserve this unique landscape.
The local community consensus is clear—no public vehicular access! Cars sharing the road with cyclists and hikers or walkers are always fraught with danger for those on bicycles or on foot. Sadly, we have daily evidence of this in drivers’ behaviour on highway 6. Reckless speeding and passing endangers cyclists on the narrow bicycle path on the shoulder of the road.
A nature trail allows its users to hear the birds and enjoy the waves, and not be enveloped in car exhaust and dust. The Council needs to take action at its next meetings in July and August to enable the multi-use trail for cyclists and hikers to finally be implemented. An occasional shuttle could provide access for those with mobility needs. This decision will ensure the preservation of a unique shoreline for future generations.
Ruth Goodman,
Dyers Bay
