Hamilton unveils new trail named after killed cyclist; announces reopening of Claremont Access

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Published November 30, 2020 at 3:24 pm

After five months of construction, the City of Hamilton says the upbound lanes of the Claremont Access will reopen Friday afternoon (Dec. 4)—the same day the brand new Keddy Access Trail opens for public use.

Construction has included:

  • Roadway resurfacing along the Claremont Access upbound lanes and the Mountain Brow ramp to West 5th Street
  • The construction of the Keddy Access Trail, a multi-use trail network with connections at four locations
  • A new pedestrian signal between Southam Park, the Keddy Access Trail and the James Street Escarpment stairs
  • Minor bridge deck repairs

The downbound lanes of the Claremont Access will be resurfaced as part of a future project.

The Keddy Access Trail spans between Hunter and West 5th St, with side connections at four locations (including an entry point at Hunter St. and Claremont Access). The connections are three-metre wide asphalt trails, located at:

  • West Avenue (near Wellington Street)
  • St Joseph’s Drive
  • North and south sides of Arkledun Avenue / Jolley Cut
  • Tanner Street through Southam Park

Gates to the Keddy Access Trail will be closed until Friday afternoon and pedestrians and cyclists are asked to refrain from using it until all signage, pavement markings, and other safety measures have been fully installed.

“The completion of this project will expand travel options among residents and will provide much-needed connectivity between the lower city and mountain,” said Mayor Fred Eisenberger. “The new Keddy Access Trail is an important initiative for cyclists and pedestrians and a wonderful tribute to Jay Keddy. Thank you to City staff for ensuring this project was completed safely and to our community members for your patience during this time.”

There will be no ribbon-cutting ceremony in order to avoid large gatherings, which are prohibited under provincial restrictions in the Red “Control” category of the COVID-19 framework.

Jay Keddy was killed on Dec 2, 2015, when he was struck from behind by a pickup truck while riding his bike up the Claremont Acess at dusk.

On July 14, 2017, Guy McPhee, a local mortgage broker, was found guilty of careless driving but avoided jail time. He was sentenced to community service and handed a $2,000 fine, as well as a 120-day driving probation.

“Jay Keddy was a family man, a teacher, a contributor to our great city and a well-liked individual in our community,” said Ward 14 Councillor, Terry Whitehead. “We lost a great citizen, friend and family member and it is unfortunate Jay is no longer with us. As an avid cyclist, it is fitting to have one of the City’s major bike lane accesses named after Mr. Keddy. We are proud to commemorate Jay’s legacy and spirit through this project.”​

The City also reminded “cyclists and pedestrians to share the trail,” in an official media release. “As a cyclist, do not exceed 15 km/hr on trails, slow down to pass others and yield to pedestrians. Cyclists are advised to keep right and pass on the left.”

 

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