October 20, 2020 Waverley, NS
The Lake William Active Transportation Trail officially opened a pedestrian suspension bridge over the CN rail tracks in Waverley today, Tuesday, October 20.
“This suspension bridge is more than a safe way to cross the busy rails,” said Allan Billard, project manager of the Shubenacadie Watershed Environmental Protection Society (SWEPS). “Walkers will want to hike in just to see it and the wonderful views from centre span.”
Built by Bedford’s Dexter Construction, the accessible walkway features panels recycled from the Angus L. Macdonald Bridge over Halifax Harbour. SWEPS raised the funding from all levels of government to complete the project, its third trail bridge.
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) contributed $115,000 through its Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)towards the project.
“The bridge strengthens the region’s trail infrastructure, supporting increased visitation that will benefit local communities and businesses, particularly in Waverley and Fall River,” said Darrell Samson, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and Member of Parliament for Sackville-Preston-Chezzetcook. “ACOA is proud to work with local organizations such as SWEPS to encourage local tourism and help the industry come back strong in Atlantic Canada.”
PS Samson participated in the event on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.
At present, the 4-kilometre route goes from the Powder Mill Picnic Park in Waverley and extends south along the shores of Lake William.
“There is still 600 metres at the far end to complete,” Billard said. “When the trail is finished, residents will use this newbridge to connect to Shubie Park and even walk all the way into Dartmouth.”
SWEPS, under Billard’s guidance, also built the busy suspension bridge across Lake Banook in Dartmouth and a bridge under Highway 102 in Fall River.
Media Contacts:
Allan Billard
Project Manager, SWEPS
902-449-0581
allan.billard@icloud.com
Chris Brooks
Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-830-3839 (cell)
chris.brooks@canada.ca