A program opening up snowmobile access to some Timmins streets is entering its final phase.
Before the season starts, the Timmins Snowmobile Club is asking for feedback on the program to bring to council.
The Timmins Snowmobile Club's Patrick Dzijacky said the last part of the proposal is asking for final approval to amend the city's bylaw. It would mean riders who meet the requirements would be allowed access to certain streets going forward.
"We are looking for support from business and snowmobilers. If they liked being able to access the streets or have seen an increase in business because of this we need to hear from them. We also would like the general public to provide feedback on how it went and if there are areas for improvement," he said.
"There is always a lot of negative comments on social media and the people making them are the most vocal. We are hoping that when people provide feedback we get both sides and if there are concerns that we can also get suggestion on how to fix them."
The comments received will be reviewed with Timmins Police, and presented to council.
The deadline to comment is Oct. 21. Feedback can be emailed to [email protected] or dropped off at city hall.
For the past two winters, sledders have been allowed on specific streets to access trails, gas stations, restaurants and accommodations. Access is not allowed downtown, on major roads, or streets around schools.
The first phase allowed snowmobiles on some streets in Schumacher, Gold Centre, Porcupine, South Porcupine, Mountjoy and Connaught for the 2018/19 season. It also allowed access to the Hampton Inn by Hilton.
In the second phase, certain streets north and south of Algonquin Boulevard were opened up.
Some of the requirements for snowmobile drivers using the streets under the program are that they must be at least 16 years old, have a valid license and insurance, and follow the 20 km/hr speed limit. Access is also only allowed during certain hours.
People are also asked not use Mattagami Region Conservation Authority walking trails, and not have exhaust modifications on their sled
