New trails and a day use area are being built by Red Deer County in four communities this year.
County council approved spending up to $300,000 to build trails at Benalto, Springbrook and Poplar Ridge and to create a day use area and interior trail at Delburne Lakes.
“This is a really big day,” said Trails Task Force member Coun. Christine Moore, adding the new trails will make county communities more walkable.
Coun. Dana Depalme also applauded the initiative. “I look forward to the start of this and more. There’s lots more to come in trail development.”
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Coun. Lonny Kennett also said he was looking forward to more trails proposals coming, which will improve communities while making them safer.
“I know if we can get the bikes off the roads and on to trails that might help somewhat.”
The need for trails comes up often in talking with county residents, said Coun. Brent Ramsay. Gleniffer Lake and the Markerville areas are often mentioned as places where trails would be welcomed.
Coun. Connie Huelsman agreed trails are a high priority for residents.
“When we did our survey this is what the public wanted and asked for and I think this is a step forward,” said Huelsman.
Mayor Jim Wood agrees.
“People wanted trails in every area of the county. I’m glad we’re in the process of starting the first ones.”
A Trails Task Force was formed by the county in March 2020 after trails and more rural recreational opportunities were identified in a community needs assessment study the county undertook in 2017. A community well-being study further highlighted the local support for more opportunities to walk, hike, cycle and run on established trails in the county.
The task force, which includes county staff and members of the community, received the 106-page trail strategy for information in July 2021.
Four projects were given the green light on Tuesday by council:
•700-metre gravel trail from Benalto Kountry Meadows to Benalto
•600-metre paved and gravel trail in Springbrook, linking Airport Drive to the local skating rink, playground an skate park
•1.6-km trail to be built as part of a two-phase project near Poplar Ridge subdivision. A second phase in 2023 would connect trail to school and residential areas
•A day use area with interior trail, parking, picnic area and floating dock to be built on county land next to Delburne Lakes. A trail linking the day use area to Delburne was rejected because of the steep terrain
County staff are recommending $500,000 be put in the budget for trail work next year.