Montpellier had first used money from his Health Community Initiative (HCI) fund for engineering and design work for the two kilometre east-west trail across Chelmsford.

The city then provided $800,000 for clearing and partial construction.

"It would take you from east-to-west, if you would, along the Whitson River," Montpellier said. "In it there would be little parkettes, maybe a barbecue area, and so forth."

Montpellier says the project was able to save money when environmentally-friendly aggregates would be used on the surfacing, instead of hard-surface pavement.

While pitching the project to his colleagues, Montpellier said the trail could attract eco-tourists who would prefer to walk or bike through the community.