The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) is pleased to announce the completion of significant infrastructure and accessibility enhancements at Rockway Conservation Area (Rockway).
This project aligns with NPCA's strategic objectives and the broader mission of conservation authorities to facilitate a sustainable and inclusive connection between the community and the natural environment.
Supported by funding from the Government of Canada, the Niagara Region, and Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation, this enhancement project represents a significant investment in community well-being and environmental stewardship.
Key improvements include:
- A new permeable parking lot reduces the amount of stormwater runoff leaving the site, improves the quality of stormwater runoff, and enhances local groundwater regime.
- Bicycle racks, safety fencing, new lookout and seating areas, and a granular accessible trail are now available for all to enjoy nature and the unique views of the Niagara Escarpment safely.
- A new one-kilometer trail with a granular stone pathway, improving accessibility for individuals using wheelchairs.
- Accessible parking spaces and signage
- New trail system to complement the Bruce Trail, with improved wayfinding coming soon.
- Installation of EV Stations
Accessibility Consultant and local resident, Donna Herrington, recently visited Rockway to experience the enhancements made to the park. "This beautiful greenspace, which was not accessible before, can now be fully enjoyed by everyone,” she said. “It’s very exciting to see NPCA’s commitment to making nature accessible for all.”
To encourage community access to these natural spaces, NPCA has also enhanced its Library NaturePlus Pass program, which offers the NaturePlus Pass for a complimentary oneweek loan through local libraries and institutions, including Niagara College, Brock University, and the Hamilton Regional Indian Centre. NPCA recently doubled the number of passes available to now 120 across the Niagara Peninsula watershed. These passes are valid at all NPCA conservation areas where parking fees apply and are often accompanied by a backpack equipped with binoculars and guidebooks.
Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority Rockway will remain free for pedestrians and cyclists, emphasizing NPCA’s commitment to promoting active and sustainable transportation options. More than 35 of NPCA’s conservation areas do not have parking fees and are excellent greenspaces for visitors of all ages to experience nature. A complete list of NPCA parks can be found HERE. The NPCA continues to work with its communities and partners toward a shared vision where Nature for All means Access for All.
For further details on the Rockway Conservation Area Enhancement Project, please visit the Get Involved NPCA portal or contact conservationareas@npca.ca.
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About Rockway Conservation Area:
Rockway Conservation Area is located at 2021 Pelham Road, St. Catharines and offers an ideal setting for community engagement with nature, while also serving as a gateway to the region’s vibrant array of businesses, wineries, and cultural sites.
Nestled between the quaint Town of Lincoln and the bustling City of St. Catharines, this park emerges as a haven for cyclists, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers. Here, one can effortlessly transition from the urban sprawl to the serene embrace of nature, exploring trails and scenic vistas that seem a world away from the city's hum.
About NPCA:
As a community-based natural resource management agency, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority envisions a healthy and vibrant natural environment with shared greenspace and clean water for all.
NPCA’s work supports the conservation, enhancement and sustainability of healthy watersheds with programs and services that focus on drinking water source protection, flood and hazard management, endangered species protection, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, education, and land management.
NPCA is the caretaker of 41 conservation areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.
To learn more, please visit: www.npca.ca.
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Questions related to the above release should be directed to:
Gillian Mackey
Communications and Marketing Specialist
Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority
gmackey@npca.ca