The Homespun Walking Path is open in Carlyle's Lions Park, after what Homespun founder Judy Riddell calls, “about $30,000 of hard work over 16 years.” The one-kilometre paved path is a legacy project of Carlyle's Homespun Committee, with assistance from the Carlyle District Lions Club as well as other area businesses and individuals.
“From the start, we decided we wanted Homespun to give back to the community,” says Judy. “But we also wanted to provide the community with something everyone could enjoy, and I think we've attained that with the walking path.”
Riddell says she was inspired by the benefits-both tangible and intangible- that a walking path could provide to the community.
“Already, I've either seen it myself or heard from others about how much so many different groups of people-and their pets- have been using the path,” she says. “The benefits of being in a natural environment have been proven. One study says that planting 10 trees in a single city block improves how people feel about their well-being and in some countries, recommendations are being made for doctors to literally prescribe time in nature to some of their patients.”
“And incidents of crimes of violence and damage to property are fewer in communities with amenities like this.”
Member of the founding Homespun committee, Marg Krenz agrees. “I like walking out here better than in town or on the roads, because I don't have to worry about hearing traffic. Instead, I can just enjoy the walk.”
Although the path is already in use, it is an ongoing project.
Norm Riddell of the Carlyle District Lions Club says, “The walking path is-weather depending- open throughout the year. We'd like to add benches, lighting and even expand the path. We have a lot of people to thank for this path, but we're looking at accepting donations for things that will enhance the path in the future.”
“We have a lot of people to thank,” adds Judy. “Wade Trippel of the Lions was a great contract supervisor.”
“We owe Jeremy Johnston of JJ Trucking a big thank you for such a good job building the path and giving us such a great price on it,” says Trippel. “And Jenn Sedor helped us secure grants for the project, too.”
“It's a great asset for our community,” says Judy. “And we have so many people to thank.”
“I hope they all enjoy the walking path.”
An official opening in 2017 will be announced at a later date. For information regarding making a contribution to the Homespun Walking Path, contact a member of the Carlyle District Lions Club.
