News in our community

GASTON Bridge

On Saturday, December 17th, 2005, we celebrated the Official Opening of the new bridge located at the end of the Magpie point, which leads to an extraordinary path for outdoor enthusiasts. The process that needs to be undertaken to carry out such a project is very complex and this is why we raise our hats to all those individuals who directly, or indirectly took part in this project: From an idea... to planning... to funding requests... the permit requests... to the construction... and finally, with the official opening.

Several people contributed to the construction and we would like to extend a sincere 'Thank you' to them on behalf of the community. We noticed the devotion of Gaston Desrosiers, Richard Ouellet, Alain Moore, Léandre Moore, Raymond Dubreuil, Yannick Bernard, Vianney Sigouin and Léopold St-Amant. We would also like to mention the outstanding support of Dubreuil Forest Products Ltd. in several aspects within the framework of this project as well as the direct support of Davis Jennings, Gaston Lord, Robert Lécuyer and Bob Mann.

We would like to thank all the municipal employees who played a significant role in the realization of this project: Roger Lemoyne, Roger Lord, Sheila Gauvin and Monique Ouellet. A special thanks to Guy Pelletier for all the time and effort that he invested in this project.

If you followed-up closely during the development of this project, you certainly noticed that Gaston Desrosiers was always around with his enthusiasm and his volunteerism! Yes indeed, in the office we referred to him as the volunteer project manager! Obviously, the construction of this bridge is a suitable complement to the cross country ski path which he developed, at his own rhythm, during the past years! And in addition, this bridge will give access to the path during the spring, the summer and the autumn seasons, which is absolutely ideal to practice several other outdoor sports.

In order to sincerely thank him for this well placed investment within our community, we named this bridge- GASTON BRIDGE. His devotion towards this project is exceptional. On behalf of the community, thank you Gaston!

By naming this bridge- GASTON BRIDGE we also want to note the generosity that Gaston Lord demonstrated to this community over the years while he was alive and well.

A plaque will be permanently installed at the site... It will read:

*****
GASTON BRIDGE

In recognition of a remarkable
volunteer contribution by
Mr. Gaston Desrosiers
and to note the generosity of
Mr. Gaston Lord
towards the community.

We extend a special thanks to all
those who contributed voluntarily or
financially to this project.

*****
Once again, a sincere thank you goes out to all those who made this project a success and let us wish you all the benefits of taking advantage of this great asset.

*****

In 2001, the Township of Dubreuilville undertook a project to improve the cross-country ski trail in order to promote outdoor activities for tourists and residents by making the trail multi functional for walking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing. This project was to include an extension of the existing path, landscaping and the construction of a bridge.

The total cost of the project is: $89,900.00. $48,100.00 was provided by Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, $5,000.00 by the Community Development Committee Superior East and $3,500.00 will come from cash donations from other organizations.

We are now in 2005 and the construction of the bridge is completed and the landscaping of the new path will be finished soon. The new path will be adequate for biking, walking and cross-country skiing. You do not need to leave the town limits to access the path. The entrance is located at the Magpie point behind the church. Go relax by taking the time to admire the wildlife and beautiful scenery that has been hiding in this area now accessible. For those who want to relax in the nature, the site will soon offer rest areas with picnic tables and benches.

The bridge is a reality thanks to volunteers. We want to thank them for their time and devoted efforts to such a big project. An adequate use will ensure long life of the bridge. We hope that while keeping this in mind, you will take pleasure in using it.