CVC unveils new sign, launches $10 million fundraising campaign

Written By ALYSSA PARKHILL

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

New signage has been planted into the ground at the Upper Credit Conservation Area in Alton.

On Tuesday (Nov 3), the Credit Valley Trail got its first wayfinding signage in the conservation area in Alton as well as a special announcement of funding for the trail.

Representatives from the Credit Valley Trail Leadership Council alongside Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) Board of Directors, CVCF Board of Directors, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation Community, Greenbelt Foundation and 407 ETR joined together to announce a new campaign.

A $10 million fundraising campaign has been launched to connect the entire 100-kilometre trail. The vision for the trail first discussed in 1956, is the 100-kilometre trail from the headwaters in Orangeville and all the way to Port Credit in Mississauga.

“This is a milestone day for the Credit Valley Trail,” said Karen Ras, Chair of the CVC and CVCF Boards and Mississauga Councillor. “The sign unveiling takes the bold vision of this legacy trail from strategy to reality.”

The trail has been explored for over 60 years and out of the 100-kilometres, 32 has been completed. This new campaign will help fund the connectivity of the remaining 68 kilometres. 

“We've come a long way from the first concept of the Credit Valley Trail explored in CVC's 1956 inaugural watershed report,” said Deborah Martin-Downs, CAO of CVC. “We are bringing this vibrant trail to life. These signs give the CVT an identity and sense of place, but we still have a long way to go. Our work must continue as we connect the remaining 68 kilometres.”

The trail is planned to “connect people to the beauty of nature, rich cultural experiences, Indigenous heritage and values, and the sustaining waters of the Credit River,” according to the CVT website. 

Recently, along the upper areas of Caledon, 44-acres of land sits as a significant piece of development to enhance the route of the trail. The area has partial forestation as the Credit River runs through with stunning views of nature. 

The ‘legacy project' is led by CVC with help, through partnership, with local municipalities including the Town of Caledon, Brampton, Mississauga, Halton, Orangeville as well as CVCF, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Region of Peel. 

“This is an important step as we continue to work with our generous donors and supporters to help complete the trail that will connect our communities and become a protected, natural legacy for future generations,” said Ras.

For more information, please visit creditvalleytrail.ca.