The RM of Rockwood is on the right path to encouraging an active outdoor lifestyle.
On Wednesday, Oct. 25, Rockwood representatives braved the chilly weather to cut the ribbon for the municipality’s new paved trail system.
The project converts a retired railbed line into a five-kilometre multi-use pathway running from the southeast tip of Rockwood all the way north to Komarno, including stretches that run through Stonewall and Teulon.
The municipality received grants from both Trails Manitoba and the Government of Canada’s Revitalization Fund to entirely cover the first phase of the project, which provides a scenic route for walking, biking and other forms of active mobility.
For Phase 2, which involves asphalting a portion of the trail, Rockwood received $276,000 in federal funding through the Active Transportation Fund to cover 60 per cent of projected costs.
Rockwood Reeve Wes Taplin expressed appreciation for the contributions that helped make the project possible.
“We are pleased to offer this trail system to the community,” he said. “We want to officially open this section of trail and acknowledge our funding partners for their gracious contributions.”
The reeve also read messages from funding partners, including MP Dan Vandal who shared congratulations on behalf of the federal government for the opening of the new trail system.
“This is an exciting and important asset for Rockwood and neighbouring communities. Your efforts to make this trail a reality will enable greater community connection between neighbours and nearby towns,” he said.
“It will also provide a new way for residents and visitors of all ages to get outside and enjoy the outdoors.”
Residents have powerful and crucial roles to play in revitalizing communities, Vandal added.
“As the people who live, work and play in these areas each day, your leadership in this project is demonstrating the importance of accessible outdoor spaces for others across the Prairies,” he said.
“Our government is proud to support your efforts. Thank you to everyone involved in creating this new route to get outdoors and explore the community. This trail will have a lasting impact for years to come.”
Likewise, MP Kevin Lamoureux shared a message with the municipality to mark the moment.
“Today is a great day for the Rural Municipality of Rockwood. From improving air quality in community centres and schools to increasing the reliability of water and wastewater systems, the Government of Canada recognizes the value of investing in infrastructure to keep our communities safe, healthy and resilient,” he said.
“Today, the Government of Canada celebrates the opening of a section of the new paved trail system. Our investment of $276,000 will make a difference in the day-to-day lives of those who live in Rockwood and surrounding communities.”
This project will encourage active living, outdoor enjoyment and green commuting options, Lamoureux added.
“This trail segment will enhance the well-being of community members by providing safer and more flexible transportation options for walking, biking and other forms of active mobility,” he said.
“By investing in the infrastructure that keeps our communities running, the Government of Canada is working to improve the lives of Canadians. We will keep collaborating with our partners to build a stronger economy and a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow.”
Tim Coffin, executive director of Trail Manitoba, also shared a congratulatory message with the municipality for the ribbon-cutting event.
“On behalf of Trails Manitoba, I extend our warmest congratulations to you and your team on successfully completing the first phase of this connector trail. This accomplishment is a testament to your dedication and hard work in enhancing the quality of life for the residents of the Rockwood Municipality,” Coffin said.
“This trail will undoubtedly have a lasting and positive impact. The recreational and environmental benefits alone by repurposing this old rail line between Stonewall and Stony Mountain will no doubt foster a sense of unity and well-being for the community. I look forward to visiting this trail in the coming weeks.”
Other Interlake projects also received funding through the federal government’s Active Transportation Fund.
The City of Selkirk received $204,000 towards building about three kilometres of separated bike lanes on Mercy Street from Pittsburg Avenue to Greenwood Avenue, as well as a multi-use pathway to Selkirk Park. In addition, $30,000 in federal funding will go towards the Selkirk Waterfront Development Corporation’s project to install a 66-metre accessible ramp and pathway connecting the downtown to the waterfront.
In addition, the RM of St. Andrews received $546,000 from the Active Transportation Fund to install a pedestrian bridge and signalized crossing to connect West St. Paul to St. Andrews. Another $50,000 will go towards the preparation of a design plan for a 1.15-kilometre active transportation trail along Highway 44 in Lockport from the St. Andrews Lock and Dam bridge to Highway 9.
