A collaborative trail project connecting the County of Grande Prairie and City of Grande Prairie is set to move forward this year with the support of federal grant funds.

This initiative will link two large existing trail systems, South Bear Creek Park in the City to the Dunes trails in the County.

The million-dollar infrastructure investment is supported by $750,000 in grant funding from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, a $500 million national infrastructure program to revitalize communities across Canada. County Council earmarked $263,000 of municipal reserve funding for the project, while the City of Grande Prairie has budgeted $48,981.

“By working with and listening to municipalities, our government is making important investments to revitalize and enhance local infrastructure used every day by residents and visitors. This new trail project connecting the county and city of Grande Prairie will encourage a healthy lifestyle year-round,” said the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, PrairiesCan and CanNor.

“Open spaces, recreational amenities and accessible gathering places are at the heart of Alberta’s vibrant communities,” said the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance. “Today’s investment in this new outdoor trail will provide residents and visitors with opportunities for inclusive, active and healthy living while supporting Grande Prairie region’s high quality of life for years to come.”

The municipalities identified an opportunity to take advantage of the federal grant funding opportunity to create a recreational trail to benefit residents from across the region.

The paved two-kilometre trail will run along Range Road 61 past the Aquatera landfill and include the addition of a pedestrian road crossing at Secondary Highway 668 (Correction Line).

“This project is an excellent example of the positive work being achieved through our Intermunicipal Collaboration Committee,” says County of Grande Prairie Reeve Bob Marshall. “By discussing and collaborating on mutually beneficial opportunities, we are working together to improve the quality of life for residents across the region.” 

“This collaborative investment to connect the trail networks between the City and County is a strong example of the benefits working regionally brings to our residents,” says City of Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton. “The South Bear Creek Park and Dunes both provide endless opportunity for outdoor recreation year-round, and we are looking forward to working with our partners to bring this project to life, promoting active lifestyle and supporting Council’s Strategic Priority of Quality of Life.”

The project is planned to take place this construction season.