Coalhurst Council has given the go-ahead to a higher-level reconstruction of the wetland pathway at its latest meeting.
Officials noted that the pathway is an important recreational asset connected to the wetlands area and the southern Alberta town’s broader recreation planning.
The pathway was built during the 2022-2023 season and since, officials said it has faced issues like cracking, settlement, and other deficiencies within its warranty period.
Investigations discovered that parts of the pathway were not built to the specified design structure, including areas with “insufficient granular depth”, according to the Town. Officials added that under its warranty, the contractor is responsible for fixing deficient sections where the design was not met.
Reconstruction is set to improve the pathway’s long-term performance.
The decision by council follows a recommendation from the Committee of the Whole, which suggested moving beyond warranty repairs and investing in an overall stronger pathway structure.
Officials said this approach is aimed at reducing future cracking and settlement, extending the life of the pathway and ensuring it can better withstand local soil conditions.
Cost-wise, the project is estimated at $400,000 to $450,000, with the Town’s portion above the contractor’s warranty obligation to be funded through the Small Communities Fund.
Officials said more information regarding a construction timeline and closures will be shared once final details are confirmed.
