Original Article By Pat Healey – September 23, 2021
Read at https://thelaker.ca/portobello-bridge-trans-canada-trail-extension-officially-opened-in-waverley/

On September 17, the Shubenacadie Watershed Environmental Protection Society (SWEPS) Trails Committee, in partnership with the Shubenacadie Canal Commission (SCC), celebrated the official opening of the new Portobello Bridge and Trans Canada Trail extension.
Located near Joe Street, just down from the Spider Lake subdivision, the new bridge connects a scenic section of trail along the historic Portobello Inclined Plane, once an active part of the Shubenacadie Canal system. With the new infrastructure and trail improvements, the area is now more accessible to the public and officially open as part of the Trans Canada Trail network.

The Portobello Inclined Plane, completed in 1858, was the first marine railway built as part of a canal in British North America. It moved vessels over 600 feet while raising and lowering them about 33 feet—an engineering feat of its time. Until now, the site remained largely undeveloped and underused. This project changes that, opening the space up for walkers, cyclists, and heritage explorers alike.
SWEPS and the Canal Commission have a long history of collaboration in trail development, environmental stewardship, and watershed education. This partnership was essential to the success of the Portobello project, combining technical know-how, community coordination, and a shared vision for public access and heritage preservation.

The project was made possible through funding from the Nova Scotia Regional Trail Expansion Program, as well as support from HRM Capital District Funds and a generous donation from BJH Management.

This new segment adds to SWEPS’ growing trail network, which also includes the Lake William Wetland Trail and ongoing planning for future routes in the Riverlake Greenway. Each trail not only provides recreational access, but also protects habitat, connects communities, and celebrates the natural and cultural history of the Shubenacadie Watershed.