$457,000 Investment in Trail Redevelopment Supports Healthy Lifestyles

The Provincial Government is supporting improved access to recreational and outdoor tourist activities with an investment of $457,000 in the Conception Bay South T’Railway Project. The announcement was made today by the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development, at the Town Council Offices in Conception Bay South.

“As the province’s second largest municipality, Conception Bay South has a growing need for enhanced recreational amenities,” said Minister Johnson. “As a result of this $457,000 investment, the town is well on its way to having a fully developed trail system that will be a destination for residents and tourists, while also adding to the competitive advantage in business and resident attraction for the region.”

The T’Railway Project development originated in 2006, and consists of transforming the 18 kilometre Newfoundland T’Railway in Conception Bay South into an accessible, non-motorized, pedestrian and cyclist system that integrates linkages between community trails, local business, cultural centres and recreational facilities.

“Conception Bay South has shown tremendous growth over the past several years, with more people using the T’Railway for walking, running, bicycle riding and other recreational activities,” said the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation and MHA for Conception Bay South. “The development of this trail system will allow residents to utilize this valuable asset in a safe manner, and I am delighted with our government’s support of this initiative.”

The T’Railway Project is a shared vision of the Town of Conception Bay South, the Grand Concourse Authority and the Conception Bay South Parks Commission.

“The town has been working in collaboration with our stakeholders and partners over the past number of years to bring the vision of the Conception Bay South T'Railway to fruition,” said Mayor Ken McDonald. “IBRD’s investment will kick start the implementation of an invaluable recreation, tourism and economic development asset throughout the town which will capitalize on Conception Bay South’s attractiveness as a place to reside, invest and visit. We are truly grateful for the Provincial Government's continued commitment to investing in healthy, vibrant communities.”

As an extension of the Grand Concourse Authority, the trail links Conception Bay South with the Town of Paradise, City of Mount Pearl and the City of St. John’s.

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2013 10 24                                     2:25 p.m.