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Restoring Local Creeks: Schneider and Shoemaker Creeks

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We are changing parts of the Schneider and Shoemaker Creeks to reduce flood risks and restore creek habitat. We will remove the concrete lining and naturalize the creek flood plains. By creating a meandering shape and building with natural materials, we'll restore natural creek flow and habitat.

The City of Kitchener has hired Stantec, an engineering consulting firm, for the design and construction of this project. Construction for phase one of the project is expected to begin in 2025. Construction for phase two has not yet been scheduled.

As part of the creek restoration project, we will create new trail connections by:

  • extending the Iron Horse Trail between Ottawa Street and Sydney Street
  • adding a new trail between the Iron Horse Trail and Courtland Avenue

As we construct the creek naturalization and trail extensions, we will return benches, garbage cans, and bike racks to this section of the Iron Horse Trail.

Through a future process, Parks staff will plan points of interest along this section of the Iron Horse Trail. At that time, there will be opportunities to give feedback on the detailed design of these spaces.

For more information on this project, please read:

How can you take part?

We want to hear your questions as we share the creek and trail designs, construction details, and next steps. Your questions and feedback will help us as we finalize the design and plan for construction. Please email the project team any time at SchneiderCreekEA@kitchener.ca

Stay informed

Subscribe for updates and be the first to know about news and information about this project. Add your email to the Stay Informed box on this page and click ‘Subscribe’.


We are changing parts of the Schneider and Shoemaker Creeks to reduce flood risks and restore creek habitat. We will remove the concrete lining and naturalize the creek flood plains. By creating a meandering shape and building with natural materials, we'll restore natural creek flow and habitat.

The City of Kitchener has hired Stantec, an engineering consulting firm, for the design and construction of this project. Construction for phase one of the project is expected to begin in 2025. Construction for phase two has not yet been scheduled.

As part of the creek restoration project, we will create new trail connections by:

  • extending the Iron Horse Trail between Ottawa Street and Sydney Street
  • adding a new trail between the Iron Horse Trail and Courtland Avenue

As we construct the creek naturalization and trail extensions, we will return benches, garbage cans, and bike racks to this section of the Iron Horse Trail.

Through a future process, Parks staff will plan points of interest along this section of the Iron Horse Trail. At that time, there will be opportunities to give feedback on the detailed design of these spaces.

For more information on this project, please read:

How can you take part?

We want to hear your questions as we share the creek and trail designs, construction details, and next steps. Your questions and feedback will help us as we finalize the design and plan for construction. Please email the project team any time at SchneiderCreekEA@kitchener.ca

Stay informed

Subscribe for updates and be the first to know about news and information about this project. Add your email to the Stay Informed box on this page and click ‘Subscribe’.


  • Design presentation available Nov. 25

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    We want to share designs for upcoming changes to Schneider Creek and Shoemaker Creek including:

    • Schneider Creek and Shoemaker Creek naturalization
    • Improved trail connections in the project area


    We want to hear from you! We invite you to participate by watching a pre-recorded presentation. The video will feature project information and the proposed final design.

    The presentation will be posted on Nov. 25, 2024. Staff and consultants will be available to respond to questions within 1-2 business days from Nov. 25 to 28. We will continue to respond to questions after that time. Your feedback is highly welcome and valued.

    Share your feedback by emailing your comments and questions to SchneiderCreekEA@kitchener.ca

  • Soil and groundwater testing this fall

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    Throughout the next few months, you may see drilling equipment and construction staff. They may be near or in the creek or Iron Horse Trail between:

    • Kent Avenue
    • Courtland Avenue East
    • Sydney Street South

    We are doing these tests to determine the soil and groundwater conditions of the project site ahead of construction. Please take extra care and observe the construction signage in the area.

  • Project background

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    In the spring of 2024, the Schneider and Shoemaker Creek Naturalization Environmental Assessment (EA) was approved.

    The Schneider and Shoemaker creeks are currently lined with concrete where the rivers meet. During heavy rains, creeks spill over and flood areas around it, which creates a risk to public safety. Through the EA, we identified a preferred solution that will:

    • Reduce future flood risks
    • Protect and improve water quality
    • Address erosion
    • Improve the habitat for fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds
    • Enhance trail connections
    • Provide spaces for enjoyment of the creek setting

    For more information, please visit the Schneider and Shoemaker Creek Naturalization Environmental Assessment (EA) project page.

Page last updated: 21 Nov 2024, 11:03 AM