City cites extended cold, wet spring as street sweeping lags; residents urged to use caution on roads

THUNDER BAY — April 29, 2025 — Thunder Bay cyclists eager to return to the city’s bike lanes will have to wait a little longer this year. Administration has announced a delay in the official opening of designated bike lanes due to prolonged cold and wet weather that has slowed street sweeping operations.

Under normal conditions, the lanes open on May 1 following seasonal cleanup efforts. However, the city reports that road crews are still working to clear winter sand, gravel, and debris from roadways and bike paths.

No revised date for opening has been set, but an update will be provided as soon as conditions improve.

“Safety is our top priority,” stated a City Roads Division representative. “Until the lanes are cleared, cyclists are advised to ride with caution, and drivers should remain alert and share the road responsibly.”

Once sweeping is completed, parking restrictions in designated bike lanes will be enforced, as per municipal bylaws. The delay could impact early-season riders already taking advantage of the milder temperatures.

Bike Lane Delays Highlight Broader Infrastructure Challenge

This delay underscores the broader challenges the City faces when maintaining active transportation routes amid fluctuating spring weather. As Thunder Bay continues to expand its Active Transportation Network, timely maintenance becomes even more essential to supporting healthy, environmentally sustainable transportation options.

City officials continue to emphasize the benefits of active transportation — including improved physical health, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and reduced household transportation costs — but delays like this point to the need for more resilient infrastructure and better spring readiness planning.

Additional Resources:

• Learn more about Thunder Bay’s Active Transportation Network: thunderbay.ca/activetransportation

• Organizations interested in participating in the Bike Racks for Business program are encouraged to reach out through the same portal.

• For street sweeping inquiries, residents can contact Dispatch directly at 807-625-2195.