East Pine Road officially closed

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Town of Strathmore council discussed the East Pine Road Closure Bylaw, 23-11, during the Oct. 2, regular meeting, returning it to council chambers after 18 months since last reading. 

Administration had recommended in council’s meeting agenda that second and third readings of the bylaw both be passed during the meeting. 

East Pine Road is an access road on the east side of Strathmore, south of Highway 1, and borders the Legacy Farm development. 

Town administration determined it is not a necessary road, as it currently only provides access to one location, and is already barricaded from access to Spruce Park Drive. 

Under an access agreement, access to the Klaiber Historical Barn will be left open until a suitable alternative is provided through the Legacy Farm Development.

Regarding the town’s strategic priorities, passing of the bylaw would allow the town of hold title on the parcel of land to which the bylaw refers, and it is anticipated that in conjunction with the development of the Legacy Farm, the parcel will either be used for highway beautification, or amalgamated with the development area. 

First reading of the bylaw was passed by Strathmore council, and then the bylaw was differed to the province for approval from the Ministry of Transportation and Economic Corridors. 

Among the conditions provided by the province was the contingency that the East Pine Road remain open until a suitable alternative is provided. 

The closure of the East Pine Road allows the town to have more flexibility and control over that particular highway corridor area. The roadway is not required for development access, as future connections will be constructed. 

A motion for second reading, proposed by Coun. Melissa Langmaid, was passed unanimously by council without further discussion or debate. 

Coun. Denise Peterson motioned for council to pass third reading of the bylaw. Prior to voting, Coun. Brent Wiley inquired as to whether town administration had already contacted the developer of the Legacy Farm in order to ensure they support the action by council.

This correspondence was confirmed by administration. 

Council voted to pass Peterson’s motion unanimously and without further discussion, adopting the bylaw.