Brandon Riverbank Celebrates New Solar Pathway Project

Brandon, MB – Brandon Riverbank recently embarked on a project to install 40 flood-proof solar LED lights to the existing light stands, which have been dark and not usable since the flood of 2011.

An announcement took place on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 14 to celebrate the near completion of the project and it included contributors as well as members of the media and Brandon Riverbank board members and staff.

Contributors to the project include the Province of Manitoba, Brandon Area Community Foundation, Guild Insurance Brokers and the Thomas Sill Foundation.

“We are thrilled with the work that’s been done to light our pathways once again,” said James Montgomery, GM of Brandon Riverbank Inc. “The solar LED project would not have been possible without the contributions of these partners.”

Rochelle Squires, municipal relations minister for Manitoba, says the province is committed to investing in projects that benefit communities across Manitoba.

“We are pleased to support the Brandon Riverbank solar LED pathway lighting project, which will not only improve safety but encourage use of the pathways and enhance the overall experience for users,” she added.

Cliff Cullen, justice minister for Manitoba and MLA for Spruce Woods, says the new solar pathway project allows for the community to enjoy the Brandon Riverbank and the Assiniboine River Corridor after sunset.

“It also provides a sense of security with well-lit surroundings,” Cullen added.

Meanwhile, for Terri Roulette McCartney, board chair of the Brandon Area Community Foundation, supporting this project was a natural fit.

“Through our endowment fund, our mission is to strengthen and improve the quality of life for those in southwestern Manitoba,” she said. “Not only does the Riverbank’s lighting project meet our granting criteria, it will add significant value overall to this regional destination hub today and into the future.”

Brett McGregor of Guild Insurance Brokers says he couldn’t be more thrilled to see this Riverbank Discovery Centre project come to life. “We’re proud to be a contributing sponsor of the solar pathway lighting project,” he added. “The light system will enhance the usability of the trails and make them safer to use in the evening so our community can get out and enjoy the view.”

“We know that the lighting will help with safety issues and enhance the area around the Riverbank Discovery Centre and nearby trails,” said Gord Meger, director of finance for the Thomas Sill Foundation Inc. “We hope that the solar lighting will expand the use of the area for community events well into the future.”

Brandon Riverbank Inc. would also like to thank Faraday Lighting for their assistance with this project and Jamieson & Judd Electrical for their tireless work of installing the pathway lighting project. The community is invited to come out and enjoy all that Brandon Riverbank and the Assiniboine River Corridor have to offer. We know that the lighting system will benefit many
people who use the trails after the sun goes down and will make the trails safer and more enjoyable.

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