Middlesboro City Council voted in support of a resolution to apply for $100,000 for the restoration of the Canal Walk.

If funded, the Canal Walk — from Lothbury Street to Ashbury Street — will be paved with asphalt.

Other existing sections between Cumberland Avenue and Lothbury Street will be repaired and enhanced. Interpretive signs would be added along the whole length of the walk. A brochure will be produced and printed.

Middlesboro’s historic canal walk would stand to receive substantial restoration. Parts of the walk will only require a widening of the existing paved sidewalk. However, other parts need attention and corrective repairs to the paved walkway.

There are also segments that currently have no pavement or railings. These areas are difficult for many leisure walkers. Areas currently covered with dirt or grass would receive complete pavement.

Isaac Kremer, executive director of Discover Downtown Middlesboro, made the presentation to the city council on Tuesday.

Kremer also provided a public hearing for in-depth information about the project.

The meeting was open to the public.

Members of the community were present to ask questions and provide comment. Positive feedback was received during the hearing.

The Boone Society was aware of the possible renovations and attended the city council meeting.

The Boone Society has special interest in Middlesboro’s Canal Walk because parts of the walk coincide with the legendary Boone Trace.

Members of the group spoke of their interest in potential renovations, adding Kentucky was the real gateway to the west.

The spokesman told council the society has members in all 50 states with much appreciation for the history of Daniel Boone. They have a growing membership in Europe as well.

The Boone Society members indicated they hope Middlesboro will more prominently become the trailhead for all Boone research and attention. The society was also preparing to meet with representatives from the six different counties in Kentucky representing Boone Trace.

Reach Shane Pippin at 606-248-1010, mpippin@civitasmedia.com