Great summer weather allowed for lots of outdoor time
By Kathy Rowe
Welcome back, readers! Our COVID summer was a strange one for sure, but no one can protest our wonderful summer weather. At a time when being outdoors was the preferred environment for staying safe and healthy, we had plenty of days of warm temperatures and sun for a variety of outdoor summer activities. Our times of “bubble” family members and good friends certainly helped keep many of us thinking positively despite the stressful times. COVID-19 is still with us, so I am hoping that we have favourable fall weather for continued safe outdoor gatherings.
Fall events?
Understandably, there are no planned community events in Centennial for the next several weeks. However, the good news is that we are working on plans to hold our annual Pumpkin Parade on November 1. There most likely won’t be an indoor option for the parade should the weather fail, but we are certain that we can host the parade again on the grounds of the Port Union Community Centre safely. There will be more details on this in the coming weeks.
Proposed biogas facility
This proposal is still before the Environmental Registry Office of Ontario and my team continues to monitor any updates. I urge you to read my article for further details.
Closure of level crossing
Metrolinx has confirmed that the Chesterton Shores level crossing west of the Rouge Hills GO Station will be closing sometime after Labour Day. Metrolinx has strong concerns about the safety risks posed by this crossing, which many people use year-round to access the waterfront trail. Metrolinx has already posted signage that directs pedestrians through the GO station as an alternative.
West Rouge president Kathi Loughran has written a letter to Metrolinx that strongly opposes the closure until a safer pedestrian crossing (tunnel) can be built east of the level crossing. The TRCA, Councillor Jennifer McKelvie and the CCRA all support Kathi’s opinion. We simply don’t believe that people with accessibility needs, pedestrians who are walking, biking, rollerblading or pushing strollers will be safe using the busy GO Station parking lot to access the trail. Next steps will be to work with MPP Vijay Thanigasalam for support.