Winter Walking and Cycling

[robdrimmie]

I believe that you are correct on both counts.  Re the first, however, the lack of prioritization seems logical (from a bureaucratic point of view) if the idea is to eventually implement 100% coverage - they need to gather data on all types/locations of sidewalks to provide a basis for full implementation.

My concern, identified by the City, is the increase in salt usage that will result from this.

How much salt could possibly be used in comparison with what's used on the roads? Logically, it would only be a small fraction. When it's brought up by the City and others, it seems like a red herring. Yes, reducing salt usage should be a consideration. Should it be the primary consideration? It obviously hasn't been in practice when it comes to keeping roads and parking lots clear.

Based on the City of Kitchener's Standard Drawings document (https://www.kitchener.ca/en/resourcesGen...il2015.pdf) a typical "local road" is 18m. 8.4 of that is two lanes of roadway, and 3 of that is two sidewalks, one on either side of the road. That's not a trivial amount of salt.

And if we assume that salt usage in Downtown Kitchener is representative, then there will literally be piles of salt on the sidewalk. I don't think that's entirely fair as DTK is typically salted by hand (well, shovel) and I'd expect the purchase of some dedicated plow/salt combination gear which can distribute less salt more reliably.

But increased salt usage is a reasonable environmental concern and should be taking into consideration. 

I'm still in favour of the notion myself. Better choices about when to salt, preparation using brine, possibly even times where they spread sand instead, and most importantly consistent, predictable cleaning of all sidewalks. That would be super nice.