The County Wide Active Transportation System is a strategy to boost the quality and quantity of paths and trails while also promoting healthy lifestyle choices.
The County Wide Active Transportation System is an ever-expanding network of bicycle lanes, multi-purpose pathways, paved shoulders and shared roadways.
The system will eventually include about 800 km of active transportation corridors linking the County's seven local municipalities and connecting with trail systems in Windsor and Chatham-Kent. Our trails and our programs promote healthy, active living and tourism. Our slogan is: ‘Walk. Ride. County Wide.'
What do you mean by 'active transportation'?
Exercise. Fresh air. Biking. Hiking. Walking. Using a non-mechanized wheelchair. Jogging. Skateboarding. Inline skating. ‘Active transportation' is all about getting around using human power. It is self-propelled transportation and it is good for the body, soul and mind.
CWATS corridors are located in every local municipality in the County of Essex. The network grows larger every year. About 342 km of new bike lanes, paved shoulders, cycle paths, multi-use trails and signed routes have been constructed. The 20-year goal is the construction of a network spanning some 800 km.
CWATS is for hard-core fitness buffs, families looking for a fun and relaxing outing and seniors looking to stay active on safe and groomed trails. In short, CWATS is for everyone and offers opportunities for people of all abilities and fitness levels. The network includes bicycle lanes and multi-use pathways on County Roads and a protected trail system – the Amherstburg-Essex Greenway and the Chrysler Canada Greenway – that connects Windsor, Amherstburg, Essex, Tecumseh, Kingsville and Leamington.
Isn't CWATS just about bike paths?
CWATS is part of a bigger strategy to promote connected communities and active, healthy living. Part of the strategy is focused on building a connected network of corridors and another key part of the strategy is encouraging and inspiring residents to use those corridors, to walk and ride County wide on the way to a healthier lifestyle. CWATS promotes skills development, like riding a bicycle safely, and the environmental and economic benefits of active transportation.
Physical activity, whether it is biking or walking or jogging, is good for the body, mind and soul. It improves circulation, reduces stress and promotes a sense of well-being. Having a well-used network of trails in our region makes Essex County a more attractive place to live, which will help to attract investment and business, diversifying our economy and creating jobs.
Get on your bike and ride! Or walk, wheel or jog. Celebrate our system by using it, exploring it and sharing your experiences with family and friends. Tell your elected representatives you believe investments in active transportation corridors are critical and that CWATS benefits everyone by making our towns more accessible and vibrant for residents, investors and tourists. Above all, have fun!
