TO GHTC MEMBERS and SUPPPORTERS

PRESIDENT’S COMMENTS  JUNE  2021

It’s been 2 months since my last comments so here is an activity update.

• 1)    Covid- we continue to feel more optimistic. We are starting to plan for a partial “lock down” relaxation that will permit formal hike programs and work parties again.  We should have something more concrete to communicate in the next couple weeks.
• 2)    James St Trail Build a Bridge campaign.
• The campaign was a great success and we thank you all for your part in it. We made our goal. We are on target for a Labour Day opening.
•  We have ordered an Eagle metal bridge. Eagle is the “Go To” design and build bridge manufacturer for municipalities.
• We are identifying locates so the abutment construction can begin. GORBA a community partner on the project has built a “work around” so the trail can stay open while the abutments are being installed. Hopefully abutment construction early July.
• 3)    New Sidetrails
• a) Dave Hull Sidetrail at Arkell Springs. Frank  Schoenheffer and Brian van  Nostrand  secured agreement with the Water Services Dept to open a new sidetrail off of our main trail route. You can now do a nice loop walk on a maintained trail on the property. We named the trail after Dave for his contributions and stewardship of this property for the Club.
• b) Bill Mungall secured agreement with Coldpoint to permit a small connecting link between Marden Tract and the Hydro corridor north of the city limits. Bill and Jim Hoare put the finishing touches to the trail.

         4) City business.

             The Guelph Trail Master Plan that many of you commented on

             during its preparation is finally out. It includes some very encouraging

             proposals  that if supported will allow for more GHTC activity in the city. We

             will be delegating in support to council.

              We also delegated at the Operations Campus council meeting and will be

            delegating at the Ontario Reformatory council meeting. Both meetings are

            considering proposals that impact existing or future trails.

Thank you, Stay safe and “See you on the trails”,

John Fisher (President Guelph Hiking Trail Club).