Cor Van Raay -- LNN

By Connor Gunn

Cor Van Raay gives $1M for LINK Regional Pathway between Coaldale and Lethbridge

Mar 30, 2021 | 4:32 PM

COALDALE, AB– Cor Van Raay is yet again sharing his wealth for a local project.

The LINK Regional Pathway, a 15-km paved barrier-free accessible pedestrian and bicycle path connecting the west end of the Town of Coaldale to the east end of the City of Lethbridge is being given $1,000,000.

Van Raay’s investment makes this project shovel-ready construction this spring.

“The Pathway funded through grants, in-kind contributions from surrounding Municipalities, and donations raised by the LINK Pathway organization, will provide a safe option for nonvehicular forms for travel,” the release reads.

The pathway will now be named the “Cor Van Raay LINK Pathway” in honour of his donation.

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“This project is the product of tremendous collaboration and support from the St. Mary River Irrigation District (SMRID), the Town of Coaldale, Lethbridge County, and the City of Lethbridge; Everybody is working together,” said Henry Doeve, Chairman of the LINK Pathway project.

“However, while the idea of a regional pathway in Southern Alberta has been in the planning and visionary stages for the past 10 years, starting of construction on the LINK Pathway was largely made possible by the generous $1,000,000 donation from Cor Van Raay,” added Doeve.

A quick overview of the project.

• Multi-use, accessible pathway that will provide residents of all ages and abilities the means to travel easily and safely. Its appeal is wide-ranging and far-reaching:
  • As a destination attraction for visitors and residents
  • Encourages community participation
  • Infuses pride through neighbourhood groups, connecting rural and urban centres.
• The pathway will offer a natural recreational corridor for people of all ages and abilities as well as opportunities for year-round enjoyment and fosters active living. It’s absolutely critical that we are able to spend time outside, de-stress, recharge and connect with one another at safe distances.
• Integrates recreational and educational opportunities as it stretches through some of the most productive agricultural land in the country, which has long been part of this region and supports our local economy. In turn, those features offer opportunities for learning, enjoyment, and reflection.

“With $4,000,000 now raised in cash and in-kind contributions, construction can start this spring and the push begins to raise the final $1,000,000 for project completion and path amenities,” the release reads.