Elora Cataract Trailway reopens between Fergus and Elora

ELORA – An agreement between Centre Wellington and the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) will allow a section of the Elora Cataract Trailway to reopen between Elora and Fergus.

The short-term agreement was announced by the township on May 1 and is effective immediately.

“Use of our trails during this time is extremely important for mental stability and a healthy lifestyle, as long as we are maintaining physical distancing protocols,” stated Mayor Kelly Linton.

“I want to thank our CAO, Andy Goldie, and appointed GRCA board member, councillor Ian MacRae, who took the lead in this partnership that allows us to re-open this necessary link through our community."

Linton added the agreement "is another example of working together during these unprecedented times to ensure our communities' health and safety is a top priority.”

Under the agreement, the township will maintain and monitor the trail section between Beatty Line and Gerrie Road.

All properties and trails owned and managed by the GRCA in Centre Wellington were closed by the GRCA in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

GRCA chair Helen Jowett said the authority agreed to reopen a section of the Elora Cataract Trailway because it "recognizes the importance of access to nature for community health and well-being.”

She noted, “Closing our conservation areas, trails and properties to the public was a difficult, but necessary decision, to ensure the safety of both staff and members of the public who access our properties.

"We are very pleased to enter into this short-term agreement with the township, and partner to re-open access to this important community amenity.”

Township officials say up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 will be posted on the townships website and on its social media accounts.