| Calgarians Receive New Walking Trails |
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More than 80 kilometres of walking trails now accessible to Calgarians in three southeast communities. Calgary, Alberta (October 23, 2009) More than 27,000 Calgarians residing in the Genstar communities of Lake Chaparral, Chaparral Valley, and Walden will now have access to over 80 kilometres of walking trails in Fish Creek Provincial Park as well as pathway connections to downtown Calgary, thanks to new federal and provincial funding and a matching contribution from Genstar Development Company. We were very pleased to provide funding to match the federal and local support for this new trail, and the tourism and recreation opportunities that it will create," said Cindy Ady, Minister of Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation. "Connecting Calgary's Chaparral communities to Fish Creek Provincial Park and our wonderful new wetland at Lafarge Meadows will allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy all the beauty of nature in this amazing urban setting." In August, Friends of Fish Creek received approximately $100,000 in federal funds as part of Canada's Economic Stimulus Plan through the National Trail Coalition to contribute to the pathway system. Matching funds from the Government of Alberta and Genstar secured the project, ensuring the network of trails would be accessible to residents of the three southeast communities. With the assistance of Alderman Linda Fox-Melway, the City of Calgary has expedited the approval process helping to make the project a reality for 2009. "The collaboration of all three levels of government and Genstar to raise $300,000 ensures that Calgarians will be able to enjoy this network of trails for years to come," said Debbie Cole-Gauer, Executive Director of Friends of Fish Creek. "The benefits of a healthy population are well known and increased access to this new trail system is an important part of ensuring Calgarians remain active in their communities." "Our contribution is reflective of Genstar's commitment to making the City of Calgary a sustainable place to live for future generations," said Marcello Chiacchia, General Manager of Genstar Development Company. "We are deeply committed to ensuring our communities offer healthy lifestyle choices for our residents by creating opportunities for recreation activities that are within walking distance." Genstar recently announced the opening of Walden, a comprehensive suburban community. All Genstar communities provide a blend of housing options and are designed with walkability in mind. Transit options are encouraged and green spaces and walking trails are incorporated in order to maintain ecological diversity as well as recreation opportunities. The network of trails in Fish Creek Provincial Park will play a key role in providing healthy living options for the residents of Lake Chaparral, Chaparral Valley and Walden. More information on these communities can be found at www.genstar.com. |
