See a PFD of the full year-end letter here: 2020 RET Year-end Newsletter
DEAR RIVER’S EDGE TRAIL SUPPORTER,
When we sent our annual letter a year ago, we never could have imagined how much each of us would be relying on the River’s Edge Trail to keep us sane, safe, and healthy throughout the 2020 pandemic! We know that for many in our community, the trail has provided a refuge during this very difficult time. Anecdotally we can tell you that utilization is way up. We could not be happier about this because we know the healing power of experiencing the great outdoors in beautiful settings.
Every year we send you this letter to recount what we have achieved for the trail over the last 12 months, to communicate our plans for the next year, and to THANK YOU for your continued support of our efforts to maintain and grow utilization of this world-class trail system. This year our appreciation runs even deeper as we have seen how our community investment in our trail system has paid off during this national crisis.
The trail is a grassroots community project that began more than 26 years ago. Today, every dollar we raise leverages $10 in matching funds to maintain, repair, and build new trail. This year was no exception. Our close-knit partnership with Great Falls Parks and Recreation ensures that we all enjoy a trail that is dependably managed and often delights us with new art installations and interpretive opportunities.
Construction of the Doug & Karen Wicks Circle of Giving is underway with completion expected by June 1, 2021. This installation will include walls of plaques that recognize longtime trail supporters and partners. It is only fitting that we dedicate it to the Wickswhose boundless energy helped make our trail the success it is. The first words from Doug at every meeting, work session, or impromptu conversation were, “Thank you.”
Thank you for your ongoing support of the River’s Edge Trail Foundation. Fulfilling our mission “Ensure Development, Maintenance, and Utilization of River’s Edge Trail” would be impossible without your ongoing support.
Support the River’s Edge Trail at thetrail.org
Sincerely,
River’s Edge Trail Foundation Board
Bruce Pollington – president, Anders Blewett – vice president, Debbie Corn – treasurer, Sheila Kelly – secretary, Ron Nelson, Chuck Jennings, Becky Nelson, Sarah Yoder, Alex Huffield, Steve Beaumont, Ben Graybill, Steffen Janikula – Trails Coordinator
2020 TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS
A major repair project was completed near Black Eagle Dam in September. Caused by severe slope instability, the popular trail segment was in jeopardy of being closed down. The RETF stepped up and contributed/leveraged grants in the amount of $40,000 towards the $312,000 construction costs. Repairs included 110 feet of sheet pile wall with helical tieback and a drainage system to carry the water that was causing the erosion.
See all the highlights on our Project page.
2021 MAJOR FUNDRAISING GOALS
Weissman Bridge to Elks Park Entrance Repair and Redesign
This stretch of trail is plagued by three issues: root heaving, cracked and crumbling asphalt, and extreme proximity to motorized traffic. RETF is partnering with MDOT and applying for grants to remediate this section of trail to make it safer and nicer to use.
Anticipated cost: $225,900
Estimated RETF matching funds: $25,000
Resurfacing of Skate Park to Dog Park
This portion of the trail was the first to be built in 1994. The years have taken their toll on the asphalt which needs to be removed and replaced.
Anticipated cost: $250,000
Estimated RETF matching funds: $30,000
See more on our Upcoming Projects and Goals page.
ADDITIONAL WAYS TO SUPPORT THE TRAIL
Memorials Along the Trail
The trail offers many opportunities to memorialize those dear to you. From benches and swings to gazebos and art installations, our Trail Coordinator Steffen Janikula will work with you to find just the right memorial in just the right setting. Contact Steffen at sjanikula@greatfallsmt.net.
Endowments
River’s Edge Trail Foundation Endowment offers you the opportunity to support the trail for generations to come. RETF will accept and manage charitable gift annuities. Contact Debra Corn at dcorn@mtcpas.com
Share your Photos of Recreating on the Trail!
Our mission includes increasing the utilization of the trail. We encourage you to share your photos and favorite places on the River’s Edge Trail on your social channels.
Follow us at
facebook.com/RiversEdgeTrail
instagram.com/riversedgetrail/
