ENERGY--Government Supports Sustainable Transportation in Hantsport

Government funding will be used to extend an existing trail to connect community members to the Glooscap First Nation Band Hall and Health Centre.

Kings South MLA Keith Irving, on behalf of Energy Minister Michel Samson, announced today, Nov. 23, that Glooscap First Nation will receive funding from the province's sustainable transportation grant program, Connect2, to extend an existing trail.

"An improved trail system will give community members the option to walk or bike to important community buildings," said Mr. Irving. "This project is a good example of infrastructure being built through collaboration; in this instance between the province and the Glooscap First Nation."

With a $10,000 grant from Connect2, $2,500 from the Mi'kmaw Physical Activity Leadership Program and $5,000 from Nova Scotia Power, the band council will construct the trail.

"The trail is more than a path through nature for us," said Brian Dorey, Glooscap First Nation director of administration. "It connects to our current trail system, connects services within our community, provides for recreation, education, cultural enhancement and improved health - all key recommendations from the recent Truth and Reconciliation Commission report. It is a small idea which has grown into a big vision and legacy for all future generations to enjoy."

Connect2 is intended to create and promote active transportation options for trips of two kilometres or less between community hubs in rural and urban parts of the province.

More projects will be announced in the coming weeks, and all will be completed by March 10, 2017.

For more information, visit http://novascotia.ca/sustainabletransportation/.