Richard Froese
South Peace News
Another part of Big Lakes County may get a walking trail in the coming years.
At its regular meeting July 24, council directed administration to explore options to construct a walking trail near Spruce Point Park.
Kinuso Councillor Roberta Hunt added the request as a late item on the agenda.
During open public delegations at council’s regular meeting July 10, residents Martin Vanden burg and Cheryl Vandenburg proposed a walking path along the north side of Township Rd. to Spruce Point Park Marina along Range Rd. 104, the minutes state.
They want a path to address concerns of pedestrians and cyclists being in danger of speeding vehicles.
Despite the posted signs of a speed limit of 40km/h, motorists continue to drive over the speed limit, they said.
They also raised issues about dust control and requested administration ask Faust RCMP for increased police presence in the area.
Two councillors say council needs to the consider the request.
“Let’s research it,” Grouard Councillor Jeff Chalifoux said.
Faust Councillor Robert Nygaard added the path would be important to protect walkers.
“It’s for the safety of people who live in the area and use the park,” Nygaard said.
“We should research it.”
Joussard Councillor Richard Mifflin asked if administration would consider grants for the project.
CAO David Reynolds replied grants will help support the project.
“Funding and grant options will be part of the research,” Reynolds says.
South Gilwood – Sunset House Councillor Ann Stewart and North Gilwood – Triangle Councillor Jim Zabolotniuk voted against the motion.
In the coming weeks, work is planned to construct a walking trail in Enilda, which would be the final hamlet in Big Lakes that would have a trail.