CITYnews halifax : New funding helps trail accessibility in Nova Scotia

CITYnews halifax / By Emma Amodio

The province has announced new funding for community trails, helping Nova Scotians connect with nature this summer.

They announced $590,000 in investments aimed at expanding and repairing trails across Nova Scotia through the Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program.

The province said locals and visitors can expect safer and more accessible trails, as funding supports 23 projects, including hiking, biking, off-highway vehicle and multi-use trails.

“Our trails connect people – to nature, to each other and to the communities around them,” said Kim Masland, Minister of Emergency Management and MLA for Queens, on behalf of Dave Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage in a release. “These investments mean more Nova Scotians can get outside, stay active and discover new parts of this province. This International Trails Day, we encourage everyone to get out and experience what our trails have to offer.”

The Dwight Crouse Memorial Trail, which runs from Brooklyn to Danesville, Queens County will receive one grant to fund necessary repairs. The trail is currently reserved for off-highway vehicles and hikers but this $9,812 grant will help make the trail available for cyclists and pedestrians.

An unmaintained section of Old Port Mounton Road is also receiving funding to replace a bridge part of the regional trail network. It will receive $36,300 and will connect people coming from Bridgewater to Queens County and along to Shelburne County.