Active Transportation
Making it easier and safer to walk, bike and roll
Lakeshore Eco-Network’s Active Transportation Committee is working toward communities where walking, cycling and other forms of active transportation are safe, convenient and enjoyable choices for people of all ages and abilities.
We believe active transportation is about more than getting from one place to another. It supports healthier communities, reduces reliance on cars, connects neighbourhoods, benefits local businesses and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Photo: Carolyn Young
282
residents answered LEN’s 2025 survey
70%+
walk or bike daily or a few times a week
52%
asked for more sidewalks and bike lanes
What we’re working towards
We are advocating for a connected, accessible network of sidewalks, cycling routes, multi-use trails and safer road crossings throughout Lambton Shores and the surrounding communities.
Our goal is to help create communities where:
- People can safely walk and cycle to local shops, schools, parks, beaches and community facilities.
- Active transportation routes connect neighbourhoods and communities rather than ending abruptly.
- Streets are designed with the safety of pedestrians and cyclists in mind.
- Residents of all ages and abilities have practical transportation choices.
- Walking and cycling are recognized as an important part of community planning and infrastructure.
What we’re doing
The Active Transportation Committee is turning these goals into action.
Listening to the community
Between May and October 2025, LEN’s Active Transportation Committee surveyed the community: 282 people answered — 210 community members, 47 families and 25 local businesses. Over 70% said they walk or bike daily or a few times a week. The two barriers named most often were traffic safety and the lack of sidewalks and bike lanes. We presented the findings to Lambton Shores Council in April 2026.
The survey ran through the LEN and Lambton Shores Nature Trails newsletters and was shared across community pages for Grand Bend, Port Franks, Forest, Lambton Shores and Ipperwash.
Active Transportation Survey Summary Report, prepared by Carolyn Young, Tanya Berkers, Bowaine Ma, Dwight Coughlin and Mary Lou Tasko.
Some of the worst sidewalks I’ve seen in any Municipality.
Survey respondent, 2025
No bike lane means bikes take over sidewalks.
Survey respondent, 2025
Better sidewalks without trip hazards.
Survey respondent, 2025
Sharing the community’s voice
We use the survey results and community feedback to advocate for improvements to active transportation infrastructure and safer streets. We presented our findings and recommendations to Lambton Shores Council in April 2026 and continue to follow local transportation and infrastructure planning.
Promoting safer roads
We share information about cycling safety, pedestrian awareness and the importance of giving cyclists adequate space when passing. We also support initiatives that encourage drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to share the road respectfully.
Encouraging people to get moving
LEN organizes and supports community activities that make walking and cycling social, enjoyable and accessible. Our Social Ride & Roll events, for example, bring people together to travel by bike while enjoying local music and community events.
Building partnerships
We work with community organizations, municipal representatives and residents to identify opportunities for better connections between trails, neighbourhoods, businesses and community destinations.
Advocating for better planning
We encourage transportation planning that considers pedestrians and cyclists from the beginning, not as an afterthought. We also monitor provincial and local decisions that could affect active transportation in our communities.
How you can get involved
You don’t have to be an experienced cyclist or transportation expert to make a difference. Your voice and your experience matter. You can:
- Join the Active Transportation Committee.
- Tell us about a sidewalk, cycling route or road crossing that needs improvement.
- Share your experiences walking or cycling in Lambton Shores.
- Participate in community surveys and consultations.
- Join a LEN walking or cycling event.
- Help promote safe and respectful road-sharing.
- Encourage local businesses and community organizations to support active transportation.
- Talk to your municipal representatives about the importance of safe, connected routes.
Joining the committee
As a committee member, you’ll:
- Share input on local priorities and challenges
- Help guide the development of an Active Transportation Plan
- Support funding applications and partnership opportunities
- Contribute to initiatives that improve safety, accessibility, and sustainability
No special expertise is required—just an interest in making our community more walkable, bikeable, and inclusive.
Committee contact: Carolyn Young — lakeshoreeconetwork1@gmail.com
Be part of the movement
Every trip made on foot or by bike helps demonstrate the demand for safer, more connected communities. Together, we can make walking, cycling and rolling a normal, practical and enjoyable part of everyday life.
Want to get involved?