Transportation systems are major users of land and energy. Vehicles also contribute to pollution, noise and threats to safety. Sustainable transportation options include: good pedestrian and bicycle access to work, home, shopping and recreation; as well as convenient public transit. The Humber Bay Arch Bridge, as a high-use pedestrian and bicycle bridge, is a very good example of how to address pollution, noise and safety issues in a high-use area.
Description The Humber Bay Arch Bridge (also known as the Gateway Bridge) is located south of Lake Shore Boulevard West in Toronto. Completed in the mid-1990s, the 139 metres (456 ft) bridge is part of the Martin Goodman Trail. With a clear span of 100 metres (330 ft.) over the mouth of the Humber River, its twin arch design protects the waterway’s environmental integrity. This landmark has received numerous local architectural, design and engineering awards. What to see and do here The Bridge in one of the most popular pedestrian and cycling routes in Toronto, the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail that connects communities, First Nations areas and parks of a wider region. Pause on the bridge for a spectacular view of the Toronto skyline.
Visit the adjoining Humber Bay Park East with walking trails through trees and shrubs that take you to butterfly and native wildflower habitat. Breathe in lakeshore breezes. See the city and nature at sunrise and sunset. History/Culture This beautiful bridge sits on top of what was a heavily-travelled First Nations trading route for hundreds of years. The top of the bridge displays the Thunderbird, an important symbol for First Nations people. Under the bridge, you can find bronze images of turtles, canoes, snakes and salmon embedded in the concrete walls as a commemoration of First Nations influence on the area. The shoreline here was also the site of a French trading post in 1720.
Nearby community features Sir Casimir Gzowski Park, Butterfly Garden, High Park, Sunnyside Bike Park, Colborne Lodge Historical Museum. Cycling: For map and route, see page 24. The bridge is part of a multi-use pathway that will eventually parallel the entire north shore of Lake Ontario. Bus: Lake Shore Blvd West at Windermere Ave. Stop ID: 14824. TTC 145 Lake Shore Blvd West at Marine Parade Dr East Side. Stop ID: 14852. TTC 66, 145 Parking: Green P Parking Lot, 5 Marine Parade Dr. Parking, Humber Bay Park Rd E Parking. Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humber_Bay_Arch_Bridge Location: Martin Goodman Trail , Between Humber Bay Shores Park, and Sir Casimir Gzowski Park, Toronto, ON, JGJH+VG Coordinates: 43°37'55.4"N 79°28'16.2"W
