Paradise hopes to make Adams Pond Trail more accessible for seniors

By Mark Squibb/March 31, 2023

The Town of Paradise is hoping for some provincial money to help make Adams Pond Trail more accessible to seniors.

Earlier this month, council unanimously voted to apply for a Building Age-Friendly Communities grant.

“The Building Age-Friendly Communities grant is a first come first served, small scale provincial grant created to provide funding for municipalities and Inuit community governments in Newfoundland and Labrador to assist in upgrading community property for senior accessibility,” said councillor Elizabeth Laurie. “This grant is specifically targeted at small municipal infrastructure projects, such as minor upgrades to community property for the purpose of providing easier access for seniors.”

Trails, parking lots, parks, and community buildings are all included.

“Approved projects will be funded at a 90/10 split up to a maximum of $20,000 for individual applications, while regional applications will be eligible for up to $25,000 per community at a 90/10 split,” said Laurie.

Both recreation and engineering staff collaborated on the application, Laurie noted, and decided on requesting funds for construction of an accessible classroom-like seating area and a look out along Adam’s Pond Trail.

Laurie said she recently paid a visit to Kingsway Living, a newly opened seniors facility in Paradise, and that residents there were praising the Town’s trails.

“So, I know that this amenity will be an asset for all residents, but specifically for our senior demographic,” said Laurie. “So, I’m really hopeful that we’re successful in obtaining some funding for this.”

Councillor Patrick Martin applauded the move.

“This is a fantastic motion that’s being put forward,” said Martin. “Great on committee and staff for going after funding for this. Investing in our seniors is always great in our community. And as councillor Laurie said, hopefully we’re successful in receiving some funding.”

Any projects approved under the program need to be completed by August 31.