It’s all systems go for the Kelly’s Brook multi-use pathway.

St. John’s City Councillors have voted to proceed to the design stage for the trail that will connect the east and west ends of the city —from Columbus Drive to King’s Bridge Road.

Key issues were the choice of asphalt for the surface, as well as concerns with the proximity to Rennies River.

Councillor Jamie Korab says the decisions on both fronts show council and staff are listening.

“Not to pat ourselves on the back but this is an instance, in my opinion, where the public engagement worked and, you know, listening to the people,” said Korab in supporting the plan. “I personally just got my bike back last week and realized how out of shape COVID made me so I’m looking forward to hitting this trail when it’s done.”

The project, which should be finished in 2022, will cost just over $2-million—with 80 per cent of it coming from the federal and provincial governments.

Meanwhile, council is going back to the public on a similar multi-use plan for the Rennies River and Virginia River trails.

Council defended the move, insisting progress is still being made despite a great divide over the project.