New trail in Bruce County to be built this summer

Work on a 12 km trail between Kincardine to Inverhuron Provincial park will be done this summer.

The groundbreaking was held Thursday.

It’s been 10 years of planning for what has become known as the KIPP trail. The multi-used paved trail will extend from the north edge of Kincardine to Kinhuron Road, and run on the west side of Bruce Road 23.

There are multiple goals for building the trail.

“The goal [of the KIPP Trail] was to offer a safe, active transportation route alongside Bruce Road 23 and the lower roads and pathways to Inverhuron, at the same time connecting the municipality,” said Committee Chair Brad Kirkconnell.

The KIPP trail will also close a gap as part of the 3,100 km Great Lakes Waterfront Trail.

“From a community perspective or visitor perspective, the ability to enhance wellness, to find a safe location to do that. With all of those facets in mind, the KIPP trail in a way really delivers on all of that,” stated Adam Weishar, Kincardine’s Director of Infrastructure and Development.

The cost of building the trail is being covered by government grants and local fundraising efforts.

The Kincardine Trails Association raised over $250,000 for the project and The Society of United Professionals donated approximately $238,000.

An $800,000 Infrastructure Canada Grant will also help cover the costs.

Officials say many corporations, businesses, organizations, clubs, families, individuals, volunteers, and all the three levels of government also shipped in.

“I’d like to thank the Kincardine Trails Association for their tireless work and efforts in raising over $250,000 for this project; the many corporate and individual sponsors who contributed; the Provincial and Federal governments for their substantial support; and special thanks to the Society of United Professionals for their generous contribution,” said Kincardine Mayor Gerry Glover.

More information about the KIPP Trail, or other local trail networks, can be found at www.kincardinetrails.net.

KIPP trail map in Bruce County. (Image provided by the Municipality of Kincardine.)

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