Their intent is to keep road allowances open to the public. In addition, where feasible, new construction on regional roads will feature a recreation component. One such example is the bicycle lanes created in conjunction with the new bridge on Lakeport Road leading into Port Dalhousie. The Region also plays a leading role in developing what will be the largest Niagara trail. Presently in various stages of construction is the multi-use Greater Niagara Circle Route.
Some sections even allow snowmobiles.
A major impetus for developing a trail system came from the Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail Regeneration Trust headed by former Toronto Mayor, David Crombie. Presently the Region is cooperating with the trust to apply for funding from the Provincial Superbuild Fund to create and improve links in the Waterfront Trail through Niagara as well as to continue with construction of the Circle Route. Of the approximately two dozen recreation trails in the Region, St. Catharines has close to half of them. Here is where our history emerges through remnants of old lock walls and railroad abutments. The Merritt Trail also connects with some of the smaller trails such as the Green Ribbon Trail on Martindale Road where an ecosystem education program is being created.