Celebrations were in store last Friday morning when the City of Swift Current marked the completion of the over $5.9 million multi-use pathways and sidewalks project. 

The project, which was approved by City Council in May of 2021, was partially funded by the provincial and federal governments. 

Swift Current MLA, Everett Hindley, stated that the paths are a great asset to the community. 

“It's another thing that helps promote our city,” he explained. “It helps promote our community when people are looking to move here or if they've been long-time residents looking for new ways to enjoy our community and all that it has to offer, especially our outdoors.” 

Work on the project included approximately 11 km of paved pedestrian/bicycle pathways and sidewalks throughout the city, benches, shrubs, trees, a boardwalk, pathway lighting, and new signage. 

Swift Current Mayor, Al Bridal, added that the project does a phenomenal job of tying the city together, while future plans are in the works to create a seamless connection. 

“This almost ties the whole city together and hopefully with next year, if we can get the funding that we've requested for under #4 highway and #1, it will totally tie the city together,” he stated. 

The pathways are meant to encourage and improve walking and biking, while increasing the safety of residents and bridge gaps across highways and improving access to schools and playgrounds. 

map of pathwaysCourtesy of the City of Swift Current

Provincial and Federal funding for the project came from the Investing In Canada Infrastructure Program. 

The program allowed for funding of up to $2,398,606 from the Government of Canada, as well as $1,998,639 from the Government of Saskatchewan. 

The City of Swift Current is responsible for funding the remainder of the project.