Have Your Say: Guelph’s Asset Management Levels of Service Plan

Posted on February 13, 2025 by Andrea Bidgood

The survey deadline is February 21, 2025 – Complete the survey here

The City of Guelph is currently seeking public input on its Asset Management Levels of Service Plan, which will help determine how infrastructure—including roads, sidewalks, trails, and bike lanes—is maintained and prioritized.

Why Does Asset Management Matter?

Even with budget constraints, decisions about what gets prioritized—and when—are political. Without proper planning, active transportation infrastructure risks being overlooked. Strategic investment in sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails ensures Guelph remains safe, accessible, and sustainable for all residents.

Proper funding and planning help:

Maintain safe and accessible sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails.
Support sustainable investments in walking, cycling, and transit.
Meet Guelph’s climate, equity, and Vision Zero goals.

How to Provide Effective Feedback

When filling out the survey, consider how Guelph’s current infrastructure impacts your daily life. What works? What’s frustrating? What small changes would make a big difference?

Walking & Biking Infrastructure is Inconsistent

“I avoid certain sidewalks because they’re cracked, uneven, or poorly lit at night.”
“Some bike lanes just end suddenly, forcing me into traffic. It feels unsafe.”
This tells the City we want to: Prioritize fixing gaps in walking and cycling networks so people can travel safely without detours or risks.

Winter Maintenance is a Barrier

“Bike lanes and sidewalks take way longer to get cleared than roads. I often slip on ice patches or have to climb over snowbanks.”
“Pushing through snow is impossible with my (stroller/mobility device). If sidewalks aren’t clear, people are forced into the street or stuck in their homes.”
This tells the City we want to: Improve plowing standards for sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes so people can get around safely in winter.

Poor Maintenance Creates Safety Hazards

“There are crosswalks with faded paint or broken signals—drivers don’t even slow down.”
“Potholes in bike lanes force me to swerve into traffic, which is dangerous.”
This tells the City we want to: Treat active transportation infrastructure like roads—regular maintenance prevents accidents.

Public Spaces Should be Accessible to Everyone

“Curb cuts aren’t always in the right place, so crossing the street in a wheelchair or with a stroller is harder than it should be.”
“Some pedestrian signals don’t give enough time to cross, especially for seniors or people with mobility issues.”
This tells the City we want to: Ensure sidewalks, intersections, and public spaces meet accessibility standards so everyone can move safely.

Better Infrastructure Encourages More Active Travel

“I’d bike more if there were safer, more connected bike routes.”
“I love walking downtown, but outside the core, it feels like everything is built for cars so it makes it difficult or unpleasant to get to.”
This tells the City we want to: Investing in active transportation makes it easier for people to walk and bike, reducing congestion and improving community well-being.

Why Should Guelph City Council Prioritize Active Transportation?

Active transportation isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a legal obligation, a cost-saving measure, and a key to a thriving community.

✅ Legal Compliance: Guelph must meet accessibility laws (AODA), maintain safe sidewalks and bike lanes, and follow asset management regulations (O. Reg. 588/17). Poor infrastructure creates legal risks and liability concerns.

✅ Smart Financial Planning: Preventative maintenance for sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails costs far less than major repairs. Active transportation also reduces road wear, lowering long-term repair expenses.

✅ Funding & Grants: The province and federal government prioritize municipalities investing in cycling and walking infrastructure. Without a strong plan, Guelph could miss out on major funding opportunities.

✅ Stronger Local Economy: Walkable, bike-friendly spaces attract more customers to local businesses, boosting economic growth.

✅ Health Equity & Accessibility: Many residents rely on walking, biking, and transit. Safer, well-maintained routes improve quality of life and reduce healthcare costs linked to inactivity.

✅ Climate & Safety Commitments: Investing in active transportation aligns with Guelph’s Vision Zero and Climate Adaptation plans, helping to reduce emissions and prevent traffic-related injuries.

Take Action: Fill Out the Survey by February 21, 2025

Make your voice heard! Share your concerns and help shape the future of Guelph’s infrastructure.
Complete the survey here