To help fund a large trail enhancement project, the Meewasin Valley Authority is seeking an additional $1.25 million contribution from the city of Saskatoon over the next five years.

Andrea Lafond, CEO of Meewasin made the request at this week’s Governance and Priorities committee says the Meewasin Trail received over 1.87 million visits in 2020, and has been important amenity during the pandemic. Meewasin anticipates the number of visitors to nearly double annually by the year 2030.

Four primary areas that would benefit from the funding include the Meewasin Park in River Heights, Kinsmen Park near Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan and the Downtown area, and the area adjacent to Circle Drive south near the Gordie Howe Bridge.

The city already contributes $250,000 to Meewasin annually, meaning the total contribution for trail upgrades and expansions would hit $2.5 million in the next five years.  The overall capital costs of the trail work are estimated at $13.8 million.

The Governance and Priorities committee directed city administration to come up with options for the request, that could be considered during upcoming budget deliberations.