$2.02 million for yellow ribbon greenway trail

October 30, 2009

WINNIPEG, Manitoba – The Honourable Steven Fletcher, Member of Parliament for Charleswood-St. James-Assiniboia, was joined today by Bonnie Korzeniowski, MLA for St. James, City Councillor Scott Fielding (St. James - Brooklands Ward) and City Councillor Grant Nordman (St. Charles Ward) to announce a $2.02 million investment to complete the Yellow Ribbon Greenway Trail.

“Our Government is proud to partner with the Province of Manitoba and City of Winnipeg to invest more than $2 million in the Yellow Ribbon Greenway Trail,” said Fletcher. “This joint investment means jobs for our community and more recreation options for families. At the same time, it provides us an opportunity to honour the Canadian Forces and their families for the sacrifices they make in the service of our country.”

“As the MLA for St. James and Special Envoy for Military Affairs, it gives me great pleasure to see this project progress so quickly,” said Bonnie Korzeniowski. “This speaks to the positive efforts of our governments working together to get good things done and, in this case, while honouring our troops in the process.”

“I am excited that all three levels of government worked together to make this path a reality,” said Councillor Scott Fielding. “I believe this pathway will provide transportation options and enhance the quality of life for residents in St. James.”
"For too long, St. Charles and St. James residents have had to deal with a lack of active transportation options”, said Councillor Grant Nordman. “Councillor Fielding and I have worked hard to get this pathway on the radar screen and I am proud to name the trail after members of the military and their families who continue to play a major role in our community”.

The Yellow Ribbon Greenway Trail, formerly known as the Silver Avenue Pathway, is expected to be 5.5 km in total; 1 km from Sturgeon Park Greenway to Sturgeon Road and 4.5 km form Sturgeon Road to Berry Street. The specific route is currently being finalized in consultation with area stakeholders, including 17 Wing Winnipeg.

The Yellow Ribbon Greenway Trail links into Sturgeon Creek Greenway Trail (4 km) enabling north south access. The Trail will also link into the St. Matthews Ave. Bikeway to be built next year. This will enable connectivity to The Forks and beyond.