Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A Transportation Master Plan (TMP) is a comprehensive document that will guide the planning and development of a multi-modal transportation system in the Town of Bracebridge. The TMP supports the objectives of the Town’s Official Plan, as well as those of the District of Muskoka’s Official Plan. The TMP provides specific recommendations and strategies to improve the transportation system. The transportation system comprises all roads, public transit services, commercial goods movement/trucks, and cycling and walking networks under the jurisdiction of the Town and the District within the boundaries of the Town.

The TMP will support the Town’s vision for the future by responding to needs and identifying opportunities that will improve the lives of residents and visitors. 

Multi-modal transportation refers to the variety of different ways people and goods get around. A multi-modal transportation system includes cars, public transit, cyclists, pedestrians (including people using mobility devices), other forms of active travel (e.g. skateboarding, rollerblading) and trucks (commercial goods movement).

• Develop a 20-year plan to provide recommendations on how the Town and District could recognize, plan, construct and enhance their networks now and into the future, independently and collaboratively
• Consider strategies to minimize traffic congestion, improve safety for vehicles and pedestrians, increase active transportation opportunities, preserve local character, and protect the natural environment
• Identify opportunities to enhance the transportation network to mitigate existing blockages and areas of concern based on growth
• Examine transportation-related expansion, physical infrastructure, connectivity, funding models and accessibility opportunities  
• Develop a transportation policy that will provide guidance for all future infrastructure renewal and rehabilitation projects, which will support the Town’s Official Plan
• Provide a list of projects detailing prioritization, justification, and cost-estimates, to incorporate into future development charges background studies and capital budget deliberations
• Consider future growth and travel demand to identify gaps in information and infrastructure

A planning horizon is the future point in time the TMP looks toward. The TMP study considers three planning horizons:

• Short-Term: Projects or programs recommended over the next few years
• Medium-Term: Projects or programs recommended over the next decade
• Long-Term: The ultimate timeframe for TMP recommendations

Transportation within the Town of Bracebridge is the primary focus of the TMP. However, travel demands in the broader region may be considered in different aspects of the study including inter-regional connections and boundary roads. The TMP study will also work closely with the District of Muskoka to ensure coordination and overall alignment with District priorities and plans.

The TMP study was initiated in June 2022 and is anticipated to conclude in late 2022. The study will be conducted over three phases, as follows:

• Phase 1: Needs Identification
• Phase 2: Alternative Solutions
• Phase 3: Transportation Master Plan Report

The TMP will be conducted as per the requirements of Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment master planning process, in accordance with the Environmental Assessment Act.

Complete Streets are streets planned and designed with the needs of all road users in mind – people who walk, cycle, take transit, drive, and carry commercial goods. Complete Streets improve public health and promote livability by improving the safety, comfort, and accessibility of all people regardless of age or ability.

Yes! Receiving ongoing feedback from the public is an integral part of the study that helps ensure the TMP is meaningful and responsive to the needs and values of the Town of Bracebridge, its residents, businesses, and visitors.

In Phase 1, your feedback will be used to help identify transportation issues, needs and opportunities in the Town of Bracebridge. Input received will help shape the types of policies, strategies and infrastructure needed to support the Town into the future.

In Phase 2, your feedback will help refine the recommended projects, policies, and strategies.

There are several ways to participate in the TMP study and provide feedback to the project team during the first Public Information Centre:

• Take the survey to leave feedback about transportation issues and opportunities in Bracebridge that should be considered by the TMP
• Leave comments on the interactive map tool