This release was issued under a previous government.
“These two projects are a clear signal to Albertans that we are continuing to invest in infrastructure, road safety and tourism. This trail will provide cyclists, hikers and other recreational users with a safe off-highway path, making the Trans-Canada Highway safer for both individual motorists and commercial users.”
The Redford government is investing $14 million to pave 42 kilometres of the Trans-Canada Highway between Dead Man’s Flats and the Banff National Park East Gates, as well as 12.5 kilometres of Kananaskis Lakes Trail to provide smoother, safer travels for all who use these roads. This work began as flood-damaged roads were repaired.
First Step
Opening the Legacy Trail is the first step in a longer-term project worth more than $6 million which will see a new trailhead developed at the Canmore Visitor Information Centre and the trail extended to the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park.
The new 4.4 kilometre trail is the result of a $2-million investment by the Alberta government, the towns of Canmore and Banff and the Municipal District of Bighorn.
“Completing the Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail will help us welcome even more Albertans and visitors to enjoy these breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s used for cycling, running, hiking or roller skiing, this scenic route is set to become one of the most popular trails in the Rockies – if not our entire province.”
Canmore Mayor John Borrowman, on behalf of the Bow Corridor Regional Mobility Partnership, commended the province for the commitment to get the TransCanada Highway paved and to support the Legacy Trail, noting that both are important to the economy and recreation life of the entire region.
“We couldn’t be more pleased, seeing this long-term dream of the Legacy Trail extension become a reality and to see this highway re-paved We can accomplish a lot when we have local groups and our three levels of government working in partnership.”
Recreational enthusiasts are also celebrating the trail’s opening.
"Studies throughout North America show that trails are the most desired recreational amenity. This new Legacy Trail is a critical link between Canmore and Banff, and is a shining example of how various levels of government and the trail community can work in partnership to achieve great things. Today, everybody is a winner."
Kyle Fawcett, Associate Minister of Recovery and Reconstruction of Southwest Alberta, commended local residents for their resilience and the hard work they have put into recovery from the June floods.
“I am here to assure you that the Redford government will continue to support Albertans throughout the recovery – individuals, businesses, community groups and municipalities. Across the Bow Corridor and K-Country we estimate that the peak recovery construction phase just after the floods saw some 140 personnel on the ground at any given time, with 120 pieces of equipment being used across the region. So far they have moved about 400,000 cubic metres of material, equal to 400 million litres or enough to fill three million bathtubs. In all, more than 110 sections of road, embankment or bridges have been repaired, with more to come.”
More than 600 volunteers across the region also played an important role in flood-related recovery and helped open parks in Kananaskis Country.
Our government was elected to keep building Alberta, to live within its means and to fight to open new markets for Alberta’s resources. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.
Related information
Legacy Trail extension announced
Government of Alberta Flood Info
Multimedia
Audio will be available through Soundcloud following the event