The City of Portage la Prairie received $50,000 dollars for the walking path along Park Drive and 18th Street NE. Mayor Irvine Ferris explains how it came about.

"This is part of a larger plan. I think most folks are familiar with the network of paths we have and eventually, all those paths will connect up. They'll be paved, they'll be lit, they' be safe, and easy to use. The areas that we have that are currently completed are very well used in all parts of the city. Having them paved and lit is really important."

He notes safety's a major concern.

"In a couple of these areas, there are a lot of children that live in the area of 18th Street. So, these paths are even more important. Of course, our younger users are more vulnerable. This certainly improves the safety of them in a couple of different ways."

Ferris notes the money's over 30% of the overall cost for the project, and he describes what it means for Portage.

"It is significant, and we really appreciate the support we have from our senior partners, the Government of Manitoba and the Federal Government. And this money actually originated from the gas tax."

He says infrastructure's been on their agenda for a while.

"This is something that we negotiated. When I say, 'we', I mean the Federation of Canadian Municipalities on our behalf, our city's behalf, and the municipality's behalf. A few years back you've heard me talk about infrastructure and infrastructure funding. This would be a great example of three levels of government working together to facilitate that."

Ferris explains the Operation department does their planning about what areas will get upgraded and paved each year. He says if additional funds are provided, they can do more. For example, Ferris notes, the price of asphalt might go down allowing for more pavement work. He adds project completion puts the City in a good position, adding he looks forward to next year when they will continue to work on the network of paths.