Mayor Bloem and other city officials, members of the North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation, and city staff who supported this project, gathered at noon today to cut the ribbon marking the completion of this important trail connector.Why is it important? After the Prairie Trail was paved, it saw increased use. The North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation noticed that for a distance of ¼ mile between Ramsey and the Prairie Trail, there was no trail or sidewalk along Kathleen. It was a critical gap that was used by many kids going to and from Woodlands Middle School, Holy Family School, Ramsey Elementary School, and even the Charter Academy. In addition, there were recreational users from the neighborhoods who needed the gap completed.
The North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation put together a partnership of people and entities to get the gap paved. The city provided the essential right-of-way. The Engineering Department staked out the right-of-way and provided engineering support. The Streets Department did the preparation and paving work. The Parks Department provided approximately $3,500, signs, and supervision. The NICTF provided $2,500 and solicited the other contributions. Greenstone Corporation contributed $2,500. Mountain West Bank contributed $500. Poe Asphalt discounted the cost of the asphalt for a savings of $863. MDM Construction donated the crushed-rock base material, which was worth approximately $1,000. Due to the generous contributions, the total price of construction was approximately 50% of the cost of a similar project.
Mayor Bloem emphasized that projects like this would not be possible without strong partnerships among those entities involved. She also thanked the sponsors who generously made the project possible.
For additional information contact Mike Gridley at 769-2330.
