Nova Scotia Moves --- Keep your fingers crossed

The Province of Nova Scotia fast-tracked a grants and contributions program at the end of 2012.

Nova Scotia Moves is a pilot project with higher than usual contribution levels --- up to $200,000 --- as a 50% contribution from the province.  The municipal or local level must contribute 25-50% of the cost (in-kind or hard cash). 

With only weeks to apply before the first deadline of December 21 --- greater weight was attributed to: "projects or program expansions that are ready for implementation."

At a preliminary meeting a decision was made for County of Kings staff to work quickly with Kentville, New Minas and Wolfville to put together an application to improve active transportation on the old railroad bed that will link Wolfville to Kentville when completed.  The Keiran Pathways Society was designated as a key partner with New Minas as the applicant. 

This society has been the champion of active transportation in the Annapolis Valley.  Its members have generously provided research, policy directives and practical advice.  Another example of how integral volunteers are to the quality of life here in Kings County.

The application was completed and submitted by the deadline. Now we all need to keep our fingers crossed and wait for a successful outcome when the application is considered.  Since part of the work must be completed by March 31, 2013, news is expected soon.  Another application deadline is expected early in 2013.