Blake Ellis/The Independent

The Town of Petrolia received $300,000 from the federal government to go towards sidewalks. 

Sarnia-Lambton Bkejwanong MP Marilyn Gladu made the announcement today in Petrolia. The Town of Petrolia will be contributing $200,000 to the project bringing the entire project to $500,000, which will see one kilometre of existing sidewalk replaced as well as an extension of two kilometres of additional sidewalk. 

In 2023, BM Ross and Associates completed a study on Petrolia’s sidewalk system and found it lacking. It suggested $1.5 million in sidewalk construction was needed to make sure there were designated walk ways around schools.

A plan will be put before council for approval in 2027, which will select the sidewalks, which should be included in this project, said Petrolia CAO Rick Charlebois. In 2028, the municipality will be hopefully awarding one big contract to have the work completed. In the case where new sidewalks will be built, there will need to be an engineering report in regards to such things as moving trees.

“As someone who lived in Petrolia for over 15 years, has walked the streets and heard the comments from those on the scooters,” said Gladu. “I think this money is going to be very well needed, very well spent and is going to build the Town of Petrolia.”

Petrolia Mayor Brad Loosely said the town worked hard to complete a study in 2023, which led to this funding announcement. Loosely feels the sidewalk project is important, as it will lead to more accessibility and improve people’s ability to get around the community. 

Charlebois pointed to a health study the Town of Petrolia did six to eight years ago with Bluewater Health. During public consultation, people said the big thing they wanted was connectivity. Whether they lived in one of Petrolia’s subdivision they wanted the ability to walk downtown from their home. This will allow for that.  

Loosely is pleased to be getting the funding for this project, as his term as mayor winds down.  

“I am really pleased to be able to finish a number of things off,” said Loosley, as he mentioned the waterline at Brights Grove as well. 

“I think the idea of having a local MP that’s involved with the government in power, certainly has been an advantages maybe,” said Loosely, as he answered whether there were positives to having an MP representing the riding on the government benches. Gladu crossed the floor from the Conservative Party to the governing Liberals last April. 

As for whether people can expect more announcements from Gladu, the MP said she met with each of the mayors in the riding and has compiled a wish list for their infrastructure needs. There is a need for an upgrade for accessibility at the Victoria Playhouse Petrolia as well as for seven new storm water and wastewater systems. Affordable housing is also a priority for Lambton County. On a weekly basis, Gladu is following up with the minister’s office to see if funding is available for the riding, she said. 

The $300,000 being received is from the federal government’s public transportation fund.