Friends of Helen Schuler Nature Centre Society

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New Pathway to Connect Nature Centres

Recently the Cor Van Raay LINK Pathway Committee approached our organization seeking a letter of support and funding towards an ambitious regional project. The Link Pathway Committee is a non-profit charitable association dedicated to the construction of a pathway between Lethbridge and Coaldale.

Proposed pathway route from LinkPathway.org

The Cor Van Raay LINK Pathway will offer a natural recreational corridor for people of all ages and abilities. This stunning pathway will span 15 km linking the City of Lethbridge with the Town of Coaldale. This new planned pathway makes it possible for you to walk, bike or roller blade between these two urban communities, along the SMRID irrigation canal enjoying the rural landscape in between. Trail users will find facilities such as benches, interpretive signs, and picnic shelters along the way. A safe alternative to riding or walking along the highways in the county.

From LinkPathway.org

Concept photo from LinkPathway.org

​The initiative being advanced by the LINK Pathway Committee is important as it provides connectivity between Lethbridge and Coaldale, which will expand the available outdoor recreation opportunities for residents and visitors to our region. Once constructed, it will provide a 15km natural recreation corridor that will offer a safe alternative to riding or walking along Highway #3.

We are thrilled by the prospect of the LINK Pathway as it will help visitors of the Helen Schuler Nature Centre in Lethbridge and the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre in Coaldale to be able to walk, run, bike, or rollerblade between these two premier nature-based attractions.

Interpretive signage will offer educational opportunities for pathway users to learn about “here” and what makes our region unique. It will also support people in spending more time outside!

Developing the LINK Pathway offers more active transportation options that benefit our region with far-reaching and long-lasting positive impacts for Lethbridge, Coaldale, and the surrounding communities.

We are proud to provide a letter of support in addition to financial support for this project and hope that you will join us in supporting this worthwhile project.

Concept photo from LinkPathway.org showing the potential of a multi-use pathway linking Lethbridge with Coaldale

Concept photo from LinkPathway.org showing picnic areas and interpretive signage