Uptown Waterloo residents raise concerns over tree removal for new cycle path [Video]

Work on a new bike path has begun at the Waterloo intersection of Willow Street and William Street East, connecting the end of the cul de sac with the nearby Spur Line Trail.

But some residents aren’t happy with the city’s plan.

Two trees and a bench have been removed in order for the work to be done – prime greenspace, according to resident Paul Stickney.

“Both a healthy service berry tree and a healthy pear tree that both kids and seniors and neighbors, in the neighborhood, would often pick from,” he explained.

The Willow Street and William Street East intersection in Waterloo, before construction began on a new bike path. (Source: Google Maps)

Stickney doesn’t feel the cycle path is necessary since active transportation is just a few steps away.

“You’ve got the Spur Line Trail 10 meters up. And just behind us, on this same street here, Herbert Street cuts through. There’s already a cycling bypass there …