#OurTrail receives a, $879k grant from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program
The Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail and Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance is thrilled to receive a grant from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program towards the completion of the Trail. The grant for $879,000, will be used to complete the paving of the Trail and the creation of the Loop Enhancement, an addition that will make the Trail completely off of Westside Road and enhance its beauty.
“We are tremendously grateful for this grant. Added to the incredible support from private donors, foundations, and every level of government, we have now raised over $9.2 Million, and will be able to finish the Trail in 2020.” Said Bob Shaunessy, Chair of the Fundraising Committee. “This program required private matching dollars to be eligible. This would not have been possible without over 1,000 private donors who stepped up to help build the Trail.” Of the $9.2 Million raised, 58% of funding came from government and public foundation grants, and 42% from private support.
“Our construction team is working flat out to prepare for paving of the final sections of Trail. Hundreds of users a day are enjoying what we have so far – it’s going to be spectacular when it’s complete” said Gary Trigg, Chair of the Construction Committee. Last year 25,000 user counts were logged, up from 22,000 the previous year.
“This is the largest project ever undertaken by the Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance, and we are really proud of this initiative that will help our economy, tourism, and add significant recreational opportunities for our community. Hundreds of volunteer hours have been invested into this project and millions of dollars.” Said Lyle Wilson, Chair of the CVGTA.
Lianne Lang, Project Manager for the Trail, couldn’t be happier. “It is incredible working with so many dedicated, talented people in the Valley who are making this possible. I can’t wait to be able to celebrate the vision becoming a reality.”
ABOUT THE TRAIL: The Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail is an accessible, 3m wide paved path connecting the communities of Fairmont Hot Springs and Invermere, on the westside of Lake Windermere used by hikers, joggers, runners, and cyclists, used in fact by anybody out to enjoy non-motorised adventure.
There are still a few amenities on the Trail available. If you would like to donate to the Trail, please visit www.ourtrail.org. #OurTrail.
Contact Information:
Lianne Lang, Project Manager.
Lianne_Lang@greenways.ca
250-341-7757
