TORONTO - Hydro One and the City of Thunder Bay signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the construction of an Interpretive Lookout above the Current River and recreational trail links between Centennial Park and Boulevard Lake Park. Under the agreement, Hydro One will cover the capital costs of the construction, estimated at $250,000, with the City of Thunder Bay responsible for improving the access trails and future maintenance of the trails and lookout.

"Hydro One has a long standing tradition of giving back to the communities in which we live and work," said Carmine Marcello, Vice-President, Asset Management, Hydro One. "This investment will further complement and maintain the urban forest through the community and create a more ecologically sound and aesthetically pleasing greenway."

The project includes trail improvements to link Birch Point to the Bluff and Centennial Park, Thunder Bay Field Naturalists Blue Bird Recovery Program habitat enhancements, scenic observation deck and access ramps, post and rail fencing, landscaping restoration and slope protection.

"The Interpretive Lookout and trail improvements will be a great attraction for Current River and benefit the City as a whole," said Councillor Andrew Foulds, Current River Ward. "The City of Thunder Bay is grateful for Hydro One's partnership in this important project that will create another phenomenal recreational experience in Centennial Park, one of Thunder Bay's premier facilities. The new access trails will connect the Lookout to trails at Trowbridge Falls and Boulevard Lake providing more great hiking, running and biking opportunities for all citizens."

Interpretative signage on Hydro One's Integrated Forestry Management program will educate visitors about maintaining trees and other vegetation safely around power lines. The signage will be linked to a series of trails that hook into the greenway trail network.

Forty-five partners contributed time and funding to various projects in the greenway including Hydro One. More than one million dollars is being invested to enhance and improve the area for local residents and tourists alike to enjoy.

"We have enjoyed working with Hydro One staff in developing this Interpretive Lookout as a greenway feature and are thrilled to have it come to fruition this year," said Bruce Pritchard, Regional Coordinator and Director of The Forest Capital Development Association of Northwestern Ontario.