103A: London's Thames Valley Parkway - North Branch Connection

September 21, 2022

11:00AM - 11:30AM

The Thames Valley Corridor is one of London’s most important natural, cultural, recreational, and aesthetic resources. Located along the Thames River, the corridor is a complex system of sensitive ecological habitats, intensive public recreation areas, and developed urban lands that are interconnected by a municipal pathway system called the Thames Valley Parkway (TVP). Comprising over 40 kilometres of multi-use pathway, the TVP extends along all three branches of the Thames River and converges in the downtown core. It links to over 150 kilometres of additional city trails.

The TVP - North Branch Connection project addressed a major gap in the Thames Valley Parkway between Richmond Street and Adelaide Street, connecting Ross Park to the North London Athletic Fields. The new pathway opens the TVP to thousands of Londoners in the northeast end of the City. The approximately 1.8-kilometre connection features two modified warren half-through pony truss bridges spanning the North Thames River and is fully accessible to all ages and abilities. Whether actively commuting to and from the north end of the City, exercising, or out for a leisurely stroll, the North Branch Connection showcases the City’s natural heritage and offers stunning views of the North Thames River.

The project was not completed without unique challenges, including the unanticipated ultimate location with two bridges; adjustment of pathway and bridge alignments to accommodate wildlife; design changes to minimize costs; and construction access. Already well used, the meandering path with strategically placed seating areas and spacious bridge decks expands access to public open space and facilitates views of the Forest City which were previously unseen.

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