Township of Wellesley gets $180,000 in federal funding to extend and enhance trails

Rik Louwagie, Wellesley Township CAO (left), and Joe Nowak, Wellesley Township Mayor (right), joined Kitchener-Conestoga MP Tim Louis for the tourism  funding announcement. The $180,000 will pay for a new bridge going over the Conestogo River. - Contributed Photo

By Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A $180,000 federal government grant will give the Township of Wellesley a tourism boost.

A funding announcement was made recently at the historic West Montrose Covered Bridge, commonly known as the Kissing Bridge. Kitchener-Conestoga MP Tim Louis was on hand and said the investment will help the township make capital improvements to connect Wellesley's trails system with those in the larger Waterloo Region.

This funding, provided through the government’s Tourism Growth Program, will allow the township to improve its trails and infrastructure. It will result in planning, designing and constructing a walking/cycling bridge over the Conestoga River to link the township’s local trails, enhance the ability for active, outdoor tourists to connect and pass through the township, and encourage offseason activities for residents and tourists alike, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

The announcement was made by Louis on behalf of Anita Anand, federal minister of innovation, science and industry.

“We are investing $180,000 in federal funding for a new pedestrian bridge over the Conestogo River near Wallenstein in Wellesley Township,” said Louis. “This bridge will connect a gap along the Goderich to Guelph (G2G) Rail Trail, linking our local trails to larger networks in the region. This investment will make it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy our beautiful landscapes and heritage, explore our community, and support local businesses.”

He added the trail is a former rail corridor and the funding will lead to a better experience for users.

“When people got to the Conestogo River, they had to turn back or take a bypass on the road, which is dangerous. It’s well-used and people have been looking forward to being able to cross the river at that point. It was a beautiful day to make that announcement and I was glad to be part of it.”

Louis explained the trail isn’t just available for recreation; there is also a tourism aspect.

“It passes through West Montrose, Elmira, Wallenstein and Linwood. In those communities, they have bed and breakfasts. Some volunteers maintain the trails and even a website with more information. There are also guest books to sign and we know people come from all over the place. It represents the region in a beautiful way.”

In a release, the Government of Canada said it is investing in the future of Wellesley and the Waterloo Region’s tourism sector.

“These enhancements not only bolster an iconic community landmark but also ensure that Wellesley remains a must-visit destination for years to come, driving economic growth and strengthening communities, “ it said.

The federal government announced that it will continue investing in tourism projects in the Township of Wellesley and across Waterloo Region to support the development of new products and experiences that will sustain the local tourism economy for generations to come.

“Tourism is a pillar of local economies across southern Ontario, creating jobs and contributing significantly to the region's prosperity. Our government will always support the businesses and organizations showcasing all that southern Ontario has to offer,” said Anand in the press release.