Everyone is invited to attend the official ribbon-cutting and celebration of the implementation of the High Visibility Crosswalk at Hoisington Activity Center on Wednesday, Aug. 1, at 11 am.

Dr. Joyce Ellis of Fort Hays State University will be representing the Governor’s Council on Fitness at the celebration. Other invited guests are the Barton County Commissioners, County Administrator Phil Hathcock, Hoisington City Administrator Jonathan Mitchell and Hoisington City Council Members, USD 431 Superintendent Bill Lowry, Clara Barton Hospital Administrator Jim Blackwell, County Engineer Barry McManaman, Road & Bridge Director Darren Williams, Hoisington Recreation Commission Director Chris Kinman, GPS students, and Be Well Barton County task force members.

The Governor’s Council on Fitness granted Barton County Health Department project funds for the crosswalk through the Chronic Disease Risk Reduction grant, coordinated by Janel Rose.

The high visibility crosswalk to Hoisington Activity Center was identified as one of the measures that would increase safety of residents and students going to the center daily. Grant funding was also used to develop the sidewalk design along Main Street south of Highway 56 in Ellinwood. Funds were also used to support the Walking School Bus program in USD 428 Great Bend.

Light refreshments will be served at the Hoisington Activity Center following the ribbon cutting.