Pittock Dam Walkway Will Open to Pedestrians on Friday

Thursday, 30 April 2020 12:03

For the first time in over 40 years, residents in Woodstock can access the Pittock Dam Walkway.

WOODSTOCK - For the first time in over 40 years, residents in Woodstock can access the Pittock Dam Walkway.

The bridge will open to pedestrians on Friday, May 1, meaning you will be able to walk across the dam, linking the north and south shores of Pittock Reservoir. This project was done in collaboration with the City of Woodstock and the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority.

Mayor Trevor Birtch says this latest complement to the City’s existing series of trails takes us another step closer to the development of a loop trail around the reservoir.

"The City and the UTRCA have been working together for the past 7 years to increase public access to these lands and to Pittock Lake. Together we have a common goal of improving the recreational amenities in these areas. Two years ago the City acquired 88 acres of surplus land from the UTRCA on the north shore and is developing trails on portions of these lands. This Friday marks the achievement of the next goal; the opening of the pedestrian crossing across the Pittock Dam to connect the north and south shores."

Mark Schadenberg, Woodstock City Councilor and UTRCA board member says he is thrilled to see this project completed.

"On behalf of the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, I am pleased that the walkway over Pittock Dam has been reopened to the public. We hope people will take advantage of the wonderful outdoor recreation opportunities available at Pittock Conservation Area and, in particular, the expansive day-use park area and expanded trail systems. Thank you to the City of Woodstock for this wonderful partnership that provides improved access to nature close to home."

Similar to other green spaces in the City and UTRCA day use lands, access will be limited to daylight hours. Access will be available during the summer but prohibited in the fall for the installation of lights and closed during the winter months due to icy conditions.

It is important to note that flood control and flow augmentation are the primary purpose of the Gordon Pittock Dam; therefore, there will be times when the walkway will be closed to achieve that purpose. Staff will use both the City of Woodstock and UTRCA communication platforms (websites and social media platforms), along with the appropriate signage to notify the public of such interruptions.

While this is a very exciting opportunity for both Woodstock residents and visitors, it is essential that people respect the requirements of physical distancing and gathering limitations while enjoying the walkway during the pandemic. To this point, under Provincial Orders, all park amenities such as benches and playground equipment are off limits, as is fishing along this newly opened stretch of property.