Katie's Cottage has completed a new walkway from the respite home to Boundary Trails Health Centre. The project began at the end of June and was completed at the beginning of July.

The walkway was built as a safe way for people to travel to and from the hospital.

"It wasn't just because we just wanted a sidewalk," explains Executive Officer of Katie Cares Ruth Reimer. "It was important so that people could walk in safety."

The cottage located on Centennaire Drive has a lot of traffic, noticeably large trucks.

Reimer says the project wouldn't have been possible without the financial assistance of the surrounding community.

"We had businesses and municipalities from as far away as Saint Anne giving. Different places who just wanted to be a part of this project."

Morden Nurseries gave special access to Katie's Cottage to construct the pathway. Designed to weave through the trees in the area, a spot was specifically designed for visitors called 'Natures Nook'.

Mulch has been added to the areas around the walkway, along with a picnic table and benches. Flowers are still planned.

The walkway is one of the several projects for the home, including a paved parking lot and a gazebo for the back yard.

Reimer notes the pad for the gazebo has been completed and 75 percent of the parking lot is already done, adding the money was raised for the parking lot at the Access Golf Tournament.

A majority of the funds for the walkway were from donors, while the shortfall came from reserve funds. Reimer notes the money will be replaced after the Katie Cares fashion show on October 12.