Whycocomagh Active Transportation and Detailed Design Plan
The Whycocomagh Active Transportation project aims to improve mobility for residents and visitors in Whycocomagh, reflecting the Municipality of Inverness County's vision of a vibrant, sustainable community where active transportation is safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. Currently, the design of Main St. and Highway 105 prioritizes vehicles, limiting opportunities for active transportation.
By introducing thoughtfully designed infrastructure that balances all modes of transportation and prioritizes inclusion, the final plan will illustrate improved safety and comfort for active transportation users and establish a distinct sense of place reflecting Whycocomagh's unique character and identity as a hub for outdoor adventure.
What is Active Transportation?
Active transportation is a broad term that refers to all modes of human-powered transportation, including:
- Walking and rolling (referring to the use of assistive devices such as wheelchairs)
- Cycling, rollerblading and skateboarding
- Seasonal activities such as kayaking, canoeing, skiing and snowshoeing
- Some motorized forms of transportation like e-bikes and electric wheelchairs
Some people depend on active transportation due to a lack of alternatives, while others choose it as a preferred form of commute, exercise, or leisure.
What is Active Transportation Infrastructure?
It refers to the physical elements and environments designed to support various human-powered modes of transportation—like cycling lanes, enhanced sidewalks, and multi-use trails. The goal is to allow users to navigate communities safely, seamlessly, and enjoyably.
Location
The project area stretches from Whycocomagh Provincial Park at 9780 Highway 105 to the Skye River, including Main St. and nearby intersections.
Potential Project Improvements
- Creating welcoming entry points to the community
- Changing curb lines at intersections to slow traffic
- Adding safe street crossings and decorative medians
- Building new sidewalks and bike lanes
- Installing additional bike infrastructure
- Landscaping, lighting, benches, and placemaking
- Stormwater management improvements
- Redesigning parking areas
- Streetlight analysis and upgrades
Project Timeline
What We Heard Report
Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out:
- Email: construction@invernesscounty.ca
- Phone: 1-866-258-0223 (Option #5)
- Engagement inquiries: consultation@uplandstudio.ca
Project Specifics
- Design Consultants: Englobe Canada & UPLAND Planning & Design Studio
- Community Working Group: Local residents and municipal staff, collaborating with We’koqma’q First Nation
Budget
Planning is still in the conceptual stage. Successful implementation will depend on funding. Updates will be shared as available.
Public Feedback: How You Can Participate
- Review Design Concepts: Based on feedback collected in January 2025, UPLAND Planning & Design Studio created a series of design concepts.
- Complete a Short Online Survey: After reviewing concepts, residents are encouraged to complete a brief, anonymous survey to share their thoughts.
- Attend the Open House – Engagement Session: An opportunity to learn more and provide feedback directly to the design team. This session offers a chance to view the concept designs and contribute ideas that will help shape the final design.
Engagement Session Details:
Date: Monday, June 16, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. A brief project overview presentation will be provided at 6:15 p.m. Otherwise, drop-ins are welcome and encouraged.
Location: Whycocomagh Waterfront Centre, 9650 Highway 105, Whycocomagh
What’s Next?
Feedback from the open house and online survey will guide the development of a construction-ready design, targeted for completion in Fall 2025. The final plan will prioritize safety, comfort, and connectivity for active transportation users, while celebrating Whycocomagh’s identity as a gateway to outdoor adventure.
Construction, in part or in whole, is contingent upon the successful procurement of external grant funding to significantly offset the capital costs associated with this work. There currently is no construction timeline for this proposed work.