News release

For immediate release

An investment of $23,297 to the Kichi Sibi Winter Trail in Ottawa, a community-led infrastructure project as part of the Government of Canada’s Healthy Communities Initiative.

Ottawa, March 8, 2022

As Canadians continue to adapt to the realities of COVID-19, local governments and community partners across the country are adapting their spaces and services to keep residents safe and healthy, support economic recovery, create jobs, and build vibrant, resilient communities.

Today, Yasir Naqvi, MP for Ottawa Centre announces $23,297 in funding to the Kichi Sibi Winter Trail as part of the second round of the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative. Through the $31-million Initiative, the Government of Canada, alongside Community Foundations of Canada, is building safer spaces and ensuring a higher quality of life for people across the country, by helping communities adapt to the challenges presented by COVID-19. There are over 650 projects taking place across the country, including in every province and territory.

This investment has made it possible for the Kichi Sibi Winter Trail to purchase additional snow grooming equipment that complements existing equipment. This includes a second trail groomer and a container to store it. To ensure safe social distancing, the trail has been increased to 27 kilometers in length and has widened considerably. The Kichi Sibi Winter Trail is a vibrant, safe public space that encourages Ottawa residents to: introduce others to winter sports; organize events, and discover new ways of getting active and staying active outdoors. 

Quotes

“The Kichi Sibi Winter Trail has been an incredible place for Ottawans to get out and get active all winter long, especially at a time when it was needed most. The Canada Healthy Communities Initiative is supporting projects like this, all across the country, to build more inclusive communities and ensure a higher quality of life for Canadians. This is a testament to the Kichi Sibi team and community volunteers who have put their time and dedication into making the trail accessible for Ottawa Centre residents!”

Yasir Naqvi, Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre

"Public spaces are the glue that bind communities together. They evoke a sense of belonging and social cohesion. They are a big part of what make communities safe, vibrant, and connected. The Ottawa region has faced increased isolation because of COVID-19. Projects funded by the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative, such as the Kichi Sibi Winter Trail, will help reconnect communities safely. For residents, their mental and physical well-being will improve. The Ottawa Community Foundation is proud to support this initiative, and we thank KSWT’s volunteers and partners for their hard work and dedication."

Tais McNeill, Senior Associate, Ottawa Community Foundation

“The Kichi Sibi Winter Trail is operated by volunteers, so making the best use of their time is critical to the success of the project. The additional groomer and extra storage makes the most of their efforts. Now with our multiple snow groomers, we are getting the job done faster. Thank you to Canada’s Healthy Communities Initiative for helping us to make this happen.

Dave Adams, Manager of Ottawa’s Kichi Sibi Winter Trail

Quick facts

•  The Canada Healthy Communities Initiative was created to help communities adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and create safe ways for residents to access services and enjoy the outdoors. The Initiative is designed to fund eligible projects between $5,000 and $250,000 that fall under three main themes: creating safe and vibrant public spaces, improving mobility options, and digital solutions.
• Community Foundations of Canada was selected through an open call for applications to implement a national project. Together with its partners, including the Canadian Urban Institute, it is working with pan-Canadian networks to manage the funding process and serve the distinct needs of communities across Canada, including equity-seeking groups interested in applying.
• A variety of community-led organizations are eligible to apply, including local governments, charities, Indigenous communities, and registered non-profit organizations.

• Over 650 projects are taking place across the country as part of the Healthy Communities Initiative, including in every province and territory.
• The Kichi Sibi Winter Trail received 78,765 visits in 2021.

Associated links

Infrastructure Canada: Canada Healthy Communities Initiative

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Contacts

Monica Fathallah
Community Office Director
Office of Yasir Naqvi, MP for Ottawa Centre

[email protected]

613 946 8682