Confederation Trail Public Consultation
In the Fall of 2023, an independent group, PEI-based Vol. 18, lead a process to gather feedback from Islanders, stakeholders, and visitors about how the Confederation Trail is used now and how it might be used in the future.
Throughout the engagement process, information about trail use, safety, and potential improvements was gathered. The review also examined successful trail management practices from other areas across North America. Collectively this work resulted in recommendations for the Province of Prince Edward Island to consider.
The Province understands that the Confederation Trail is important to the Island and is valued by the public. They will work with trail users and other groups to share information, collaborate, and focus on improving the trail. This approach aims to ensure the trail is sustainable and enjoyable for everyone.
Public engagement
During the Fall of 2023, people with different experiences and interests took part in the public engagement process. Overall the engagement process collected:
- 174 written submissions by email or letter
- 5,744 completed surveys
- 750 participants at community workshops in Borden-Carleton, St. Peter’s Bay, Mill River, and the Capital region.
What We Heard Report
To summarize the wide range of feedback from the public engagement process, a What We Heard report was created. This report highlights the input and insights from all consultation activities. Key themes from the engagement included safety, improvements to infrastructure, accessibility for different user groups, environmental sustainability, and considerations for tourism.
Trails Act Progress Report
The Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Trails Act Progress Report of June 5, 2024, outlines the progress towards developing a strategic management plan for the Confederation Trail.
Charting a Path: Confederation Trail recommendations
The independent user group review developed Charting a Path, offering recommendations to the Province, aimed at preserving and enhancing the Confederation Trail. These recommendations stem from the comprehensive public engagement process and research about trails management in other regions. Overall, key goals include:
- Safety: Ensuring safety for all trail users.
- Preservation: Ensuring the trail’s integrity and natural surroundings are maintained.
- Enhancement: Improving facilities and accessibility for a diverse range of users.
By 2025, the Province will begin engaging trail user groups and stakeholders to support information sharing, collaboration, and to prioritize enhancements for the trail’s future. This inclusive approach aims to create a sustainable and user-friendly trail experience.
Confederation Trail
The Confederation Trail is built on old railway tracks across Prince Edward Island. It was the first part of the Trans Canada Trail to be finished and seamlessly connects the entire Island tip-to-tip, providing a safe space for physical exercise, sports, and recreation.
Outside of the winter, the Confederation Trail is for walking, hiking, running, and cycling, and it is wheelchair accessible. In the winter months, it is exclusively for snowmobiles. Equestrians can use designated sections of the trail in the east and west on a trial basis. There are also legal crossings for ATVs.
Who can I contact for more information?
For more information, email DTIpilot@gov.pe.ca.