Town closes old staircase at Milt Dunnell Field due to its condition

Grand Trunk Trail can still be accessed from Milt Dunnell Field by newly installed staircase on Emily St.

The staircase that connects Milt Dunnell Field to the Grand Trunk Trail on Sarnia Bridge has been closed to the public due to its condition. The stairs have been deemed unsafe due to significant deterioration of the retaining wall.

The closure is part of the town's effort to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors accessing the trail system. Appropriate signage has been installed to mark the closure.

"The stairs have degraded to a point where they can no longer be safely maintained" says Jed Kelly, Director of Public Works. "The plan, discussed at an August 2020 council meeting, is to leave them as they are and let the area return to its natural state."

Residents and visitors can still access the Grand Trunk Trail to enjoy the trail's recreational opportunities using the new staircase that was installed in 2022 on Emily St., when seasonally accessible. Alternatively, the James St. N and Wellington St. N trail access points are open year-round.

For more information on trails in St. Marys and a full trail map, visit www.discoverstmarys.ca/parksandtrails.

Contact
Thomas Redman, Public Works Coordinator
519-284-2340, ext. 213 | tredman@town.stmarys.on.ca