WEBC officially opens third phase of Libro Centre cycling trails

The Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) held the grand opening for the third phase of its trails at the Libro Centre last Saturday. Riders sample the trails and its hills (above) while Mayor Michael Prue cuts the ribbon (below).

The third phase of the cycling trails at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg are now officially open.

The grand opening for the third phase was Saturday morning and included a ribbon cutting ceremony. The ceremony took place near the berm in back of the outfield fence for the baseball diamond, but the third phase links in with the first and second phases near the back of the arena building itself and winds its way around southward with a hill built near the Amherstburg Dog Park.

The project was carried out in large part by the Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC), in partnership with the Town of Amherstburg.

Director of parks, facilities and recreation Heidi Baillargeon called it a “tremendous” project from the first phase right on through the third phase. She said WEBC members have shown creativity and have created safe and enjoyable riding experiences, joking they are “bigger and badder” than ever.

Baillargeon said town council have been huge supporters of the project.

“Without their enthusiastic support, this wouldn’t have happened,” she said. 

North Star High School were one of the other partners that work with WEBC and the town to foster a cycling community in Amherstburg, she indicated.

“We do this to provide recreational opportunities for the town,” said Baillargeon.

Baillargeon added they are willing to work with WEBC on future projects.

“Whatever they dream up next, we’re on board,” said Baillargeon.

James Braakman, one of the four directors with WEBC, said it was “huge for the community” to add the third phase. He credited Joe McCarthy, a fellow trail builder, for his help in building the trails at the Libro Centre. Braakman praised McCarthy’s level of dedication and commitment to community.

Braakman thanked town council for its support, noting they have received unanimous approval every step of the way. He said the volunteers have offered their “blood, sweat and tears” for the trails to come to fruition.

Donors have committed over $200,000 over the last three years to pay for the three-phase trail network.

“That’s next level generosity,” said Braakman.

The project was just a vision three years ago, he added, and it is a vision that has been realized.

“It really is a dream that came true,” said Braakman.

Mayor Michael Prue said the project wouldn’t have happened without the work and dedication of WEBC and its donors.

“This is a dream we’ve had in this town for a while,” said Prue. 

Prue praised the work of Braakman and the many volunteers that made the project a reality. He said the three phases is a result of years of dedication and vision. They are open to children and seasoned riders, he added.

“If you have any other ideas, come see us,” said Prue.

WEBC officially opens third phase of Libro Centre cycling trails

By Ron Giofu