New walking paths are being proposed by the town of Fort Frances.
One would see the construction of a 2.5 metre wide off-road asphalt or concrete path along Highway 11 East between the overpass and the town boundary.
A report from Operations and Facilities Manager Travis says the town could partner with Agency One, Couchiching First Nation and Seven Generations Education Institute as the path would provide a safe area for pedestrian traffic.
Mayor Andrew Hallikas admits it would require permission from Agency One for land access.
“We can’t do anything there until we’ve had permission from Agency One and Couchiching,” says Hallikas.
“I have sent a letter to the four Agency One chiefs asking if they’d wish to be involved in partnering with this. It’s certainly a win-win for all three communities.”
Project costs are estimated at $1,360,995.
The other proposal is a two metre wide off-road path along McIrvine between Fort Frances High School and 5th Street West.
Councillor Wendy Brunetta says it is an area where a safety concern exists.
“Living in the North End, I have seen many students walking along 5th Street after school. And it does concern me for their safety, particularly in the winter when they have to walk on the road,” says Brunetta.
The cost of the project is estimated at $468,179.
The town is now seeking funding through the province’s new Active Transpiration Fund.
It will provide eligible projects with up to 60% funding.
If approved for either or both projects, design work would occur this year, with construction proposed for 2026.
