Eganville and District Seniors has made great headway in the construction of its Connecting Communities Walkway. Built by McCrae Excavating of Pembroke, the new path is almost fully funded by grants just like the rest of the project.

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Eganville – Finally delivering on its long-awaited promise to build a new pathway from Bell Street to Wellington Street South, the Eganville and District Seniors (EDS) is in the process of putting the finishing touches on its nearly fully grant-funded Connecting Communities Walkway.

What was previously an empty green space now features a freshly paved walkway lined with rows of fruit trees as well as fully accessible tables/benches, a set of outdoor exercise equipment, a lending hub fitted with a stunning piece of Indigenous art and a variety of signage to educate visitors on the area’s heritage.

While EDS Executive Director Kayla Menkhorst said the soon-to-be completed area has only been open for just over a week, she feels confident their hard work will be put to good use. She told the Leader she’s thrilled to see how far the project has come over the past four years and that the latest addition has tied it all together.

Paved by McRae Excavating of Pembroke, Ms. Menkhorst explained even though the new pathway is exceeding expectations, they’re still working to emphasize the new area’s inclusive nature. She said they’re still waiting to hear back on an application for a Connections of Remembrance grant which would be put towards funding a new veteran’s section.

“We’re hoping we’ll have everything done and we’re going to do a grand launch in September,” she explained.

While Ms. Menkhorst said it’s going to take some time to officially finish the space, she’s heard back from a handful of locals who have been thrilled to see it in the meantime.

“People think it’s great. It’s nice to have an easy way that’s accessible to get to the centre and back around,” she said. “A lot of the feedback too is just looking forward to seeing it fully completed where they can bring their grandkids.”

Ms. Menkhorst said even if visitors aren’t coming to the centre or Fairfields, they’re using the new area for a nicer loop around town. The old make-shift walkway down to Wellington Street South is still visible as locals have carved a path of their own over the years. Visitors today will find a much more user-friendly area thanks to the work of the EDS.

“Our whole goal with the hub was about bringing different aspects of the community so that everyone, no matter what, felt included. That they could come whether they’re in a walker or with kids,” Ms. Menkhorst added. “That’s why we did the orchard and the fitness equipment. All the different components were all to bring people together however they wanted.”

She said the EDS had looked to make the area physically and culturally inclusive since her first year with the organization. Fast forward more than four years later and the multifaceted project has met its goals with flying colours.

“The four years I’ve been here, its been in the making and discussed for years prior. It’s nice to see it coming together and it’ll be fully completed this summer.”

A launch party will be held in September and the official opening will include community partners who have helped the seniors group over the years.

Local Feedback

Nearby resident Susan O’Connor spoke highly of the new pathway and what it’s done for the surrounding area. Having recently started to use a walker again, she said she’s felt very safe walking down the decline to her residence.

“I don’t need to use my brakes, which makes me feel very safe,” she told the Leader. “It’s not only meant to serve the Echo Centre and Fairfields. I think some people think that, but it’s for everybody.”

Mrs. O’Connor added she was quite impressed to see things coming together so professionally. When asked about the new pathway, another local, Brian Reed, shared his thoughts while signing out an e-bike from the new lending hub.

“It’s the first time I’m borrowing something,” he remarked.

Mr. Reed, also a volunteer driver with Eganville and District Seniors, commended the staff and partnering organizations for putting the plot of land to good use.

“I think the walkway looks spectacular,” he continued. “It’s fantastic. I think it’s a great job. Make
some beauty of this place.”