News Releases

News Release - Canada and Manitoba

October 14, 2016

City of Thompson to Expand Multi-use Pathway System



THOMPSON—Investing in infrastructure is vital for creating jobs and building communities that Canadians are proud to live in.  The latest infrastructure investment in Thompson will provide its residents safe trails for commuting or recreational use, and encourage healthy, active lifestyles.

The Government of Canada and the Province of Manitoba today announced support for a network of multi-use pathways to provide active transportation and recreational opportunities throughout the City of Thompson.  The pathway network will be integrated into other modes of transportation, such as public transit, to provide seamless transportation options to local residents and visitors.  The new pathways will accommodate walking, running, cycling, skate boarding as well as wheelchair travel.  Constructed with ramps and detectible warning surfaces for the visually impaired, the paths will be accessible and user friendly for all.

Once completed, these paths will help families connect with one another, their community and nature, and improve the quality of life in Thompson for years to come. 

Quotes

“The federal Gas Tax Fund enables communities such as Thompson to make informed decisions about their infrastructure investments, as they are best positioned to identify their specific needs. This project will enhance the lives of all Thompson residents, regardless of their physical abilities, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle in a safe environment.” – the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

“Manitoba’s new government is pleased to support this initiative to make Thompson an even better city where everyone has the opportunity to participate in healthy activities that are safe, and accessible. This multi-use pathway will help Thompson become a more inclusive community for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy.” – Kelly Bindle, Member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba

“The Small Communities Transportation Fund has enabled the City to actively continue supporting and promoting healthy living through more pedestrian friendly opportunities. The ongoing annual expansion of our multi-use pathway system is a vital component of enhancing the quality of life for our residents.” – Dennis Fenske, Mayor of Thompson

Quick Facts

  • The Government of Canada contributed $50,000 through the Small Communities Transportation Fund, which is administered by Manitoba out of the annual federal Gas Tax Fund allocation to the province.
  • The total cost of the project is $159,560.
  • Between 2014 and 2019, the Government of Canada is providing more than $340 million in funding for municipal infrastructure in Manitoba through the federal Gas Tax Fund, including $68,744,285 in 2016.
  • The federal Gas Tax Fund provides Canadian municipalities with a permanent, predictable and indexed source of long-term funding.
  • It offers local communities the flexibility to make strategic investments across 18 different project categories, including roads and bridges, public transit, drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, and recreational facilities.

Associated links

Investing in Canada, the Government of Canada’s new $120-billion infrastructure plan:
www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/index-eng.html.

Federal infrastructure investments in Manitoba:
www.infrastructure.gc.ca/map-carte/mb-eng.html.

Federal Gas Tax Fund:
www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/gtf-fte-eng.html

New Building Canada Plan:
www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/nbcp-npcc-eng.html.

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The Province of Manitoba is distributing this release on behalf of the governments of Canada and Manitoba and the City of Thompson.