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Rotary raises funds for a new trail

The Port McNeill Rotary Club is working on a trail that will link Port McNeill to Highway 19
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Port McNeill Rotarians Dave Nelson

PORT McNEILL—Fresh off its latest success helping install six new senior housing units, Port McNeill Rotary Club has embarked on something that will help residents and visitors get out of the house.

Clearing and levelling has begun on a new trail that will link Port McNeill to Highway 19 on the west side of Campbell Way, between Mine Road and the Welcome to Port McNeill sign at the highway.

"We think it can be a focal point for people entering town," said Dave Nelson of the Rotary.

"It will be eight feet wide, packed with crushed gravel and will tie in to the mountain biking trails. The idea is to put in a couple of benches along the way so people can sit and rest."

The cost of the project, given the blessing of Port McNeill Council this spring, is expected to be about $60,000, Nelson said. It is expected to be completed by the end of September, though some variables are still in place.

"We're hoping to get fill material from the new Windsor (Plywood) site," said Nelson. "We're just waiting for that construction to begin."

The trail will be mostly level, with some gently rolling slopes. A test patch about seven feet wide has already been installed from the corner of Mine Road to the gravel service entrance behind the Jehovah's Witnesses Church.

The project is backed by a letter of support from the Town of Port McNeill and approval of the Department of Highways. The trail is being run over land recently cleared for installation of the town's new water lines, though some additional clearing of danger trees and other obstacles and debris has been needed.

Port McNeill Rotary is also asking the public for any help it can provide to the project.

"We've applied for funding, but we can use all the help we can get," Nelson said. "We're hoping we can people to donate a machine or two, and eventually we'll need more manpower. But cash is always welcome. That's what we really need at this time."

To make a contribution to Rotary, or to volunteer equipment or assistance, contact Nelson at 250-956-4344.