The City of Toronto announced that a section of the Lower Don Trail will be opened to the public on August 1. The reopened stretch runs between the Belleville Underpass and Queen Street East, restoring access to a popular waterfront pathway after a prolonged closure.
The trail segment has been out of service for several years. Officials cited unsuitable soil conditions and recurring weather challenges as the primary reasons for the extended shutdown. Over time, those factors made the path unsafe for pedestrians and cyclists, prompting the city to keep the area closed while seeking a durable solution.
City planners have now addressed the underlying issues, allowing the segment to meet safety standards required for public use. The reopening marks the culmination of efforts to remediate the soil and implement measures that can withstand local weather patterns. Residents and visitors can once again travel along the scenic route that follows the Don River, linking the underpass with the eastern end of the trail near Queen Street.
Reinstating this portion of the trail is expected to enhance connectivity within Toronto’s network of green spaces. The Lower Don Trail serves as a key corridor for walkers, joggers, and cyclists, providing a continuous path that threads through neighborhoods and natural areas along the river’s edge. By reopening the Belleville Underpass to Queen Street East segment, the city aims to improve recreational opportunities and encourage active transportation.
The decision to reopen the trail aligns with broader municipal goals of expanding accessible outdoor amenities. While the closure had limited mobility for some users, the upcoming access will allow the public to enjoy the riverfront scenery and the benefits of a safe, well‑maintained trail. The city will monitor conditions to ensure the path remains reliable despite the region’s variable climate.