麻豆传媒

BATTLEFORD – The Town of Battleford is working on creating a new walking path, running from ACT Park (35 Street) towards the pathway by the river, connecting near the Gardiner Gazebo.

The project was included in the town's 2025 capital budget, Parks and Recreation manager Jordan Schechtel said in his report at council's recent meeting.

Council approved awarding the pathway paving project to K & S Asphalt Services Ltd.

Pricing was requested from three asphalt companies, and K & S Asphalt submitted the lowest bid of $21,295 — under the town’s budget of $25,000.

The final price may end up being up to $1,500 higher, as the town is considering adding an additional 16 metres of pathway to help establish a crosswalk that would connect the parking lot at ACT Park to the new pathway.

The project fits within the town's strategic plan to develop sustainable infrastructure by adding new public amenities, increase quality of life for residents, and stay within the allocated budget.

Schechtel said the intention is also to have a crosswalk included in the project so people can cross safely.

He added that the town has applied to SGI for funding to create a push-button lighted pedestrian crosswalk at the site.

Council gave its approval to award the pathway project to K & S Asphalt for a maximum of $23,000.

Schechtel said the project will be completed before the end of summer.

“It’s good to see it coming in under budget,” Mayor Ames Leslie said.

Following the meeting, the mayor added: “That is one we’ve got feedback on from 35 Street down to the walking paths along the river, it’s been something that we’ve been missing ... So, this is a nice little access to the river in the middle, and for kids and families to come off the river [area] to the park. As council had mentioned, there will be a crosswalk there, and council is hoping we can get an SGI grant as well to put some flashing lights there.”

Leslie noted it has been a commitment of this council to make the town more walkable.

“We’re just grateful that administration and the parks team have brought this forward,” he said.

He noted the pathway project will also improve safety so people don’t have to walk on the road, especially when it’s busy during ball season near the Flats area.

“If we can give them a reason to get down safely to the walking path by the river, it just adds another little [level] of safety for our residents,” the mayor said.