Chris Walker Trail

Members of Council and friends and family of the late Chris Walker met at the
Civic Centre October 4, 2008 to acknowledge the naming of the Chris Walker
Trail.

Local resident Chris Walker was a long time trails advocate. As a founding
member of the Town’s Trails Advisory Committee, Chris led the construction of
the footbridges and section of trail in the area just north of the Civic Centre that
was formally opened by Council in June 2003. A consummate Bruce Trail
volunteer for thirty years, he was also devoted to improving local trails and was
known for his strong vision and efforts to promote community linkages.
Recognizing the natural significance of the wetland complex containing the
tributary of Black Creek, Chris spearheaded the connection to the Civic Centre
and the surrounding neighbourhoods to the north to promote opportunities to hike
and experience the natural environment.

Mayor Bonnette and Chris’ wife Judith Walker unveiled a trial sign that has been
installed beside one of the footbridges that Chris built. A local resident of Edith
Street in Georgetown, Chris and his family enjoyed visiting the natural area west
of the Fairgrounds and it is appropriate that a sign noting his contribution to the
Town will now be located there.

Sadly, the sign installed on Saturday, October 4 was vandalized within the next
twenty four hours. “It is very discouraging that someone would show such
disrespect to Town property, especially when it is commemorating the hard work
and dedication of one of our local residents” said Mayor Bonnette. Town staff
have taken steps to repair the damage and the Police are continuing their
investigation. “We will not let the foolish acts of a few detract from the original
purpose of the trail renaming” added Mayor Bonnette.

After Chris died on September 25, 2007 Council approved the renaming of the
former Trafalgar Trail to the Chris Walker Trail in his honour. “Council
acknowledged Chris as being an enthusiastic advocate of trails, and a hands-on
trail builder who did much to support the creation and promotion of trail linkages
in the Town” said Mayor Bonnette. “He was known for his hard work ethic but
also his sense of humour, and Chris is greatly missed.”

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