The newest canoe and kayak outtake for the Roanoke River was opened Monday in Weldon following completion of construction last month.

Cutting the ribbon at River Falls Park were the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Representative Michael Wray, the Halifax County Convention & Visitors Bureau and Weldon Town Commissioners.

Wildlife was responsible for its construction.

"This partnership between North Carolina Wildlife Resources, the HCCVB and North Carolina Department of Transportation has been a good example of how organizations can work together for additional access to North Carolina's natural resources," Wray said.

"We are excited about this new outtake above the rapids in Weldon," said Lori Medlin, president & CEO of the HCCVB. "This will allow a float from Gaston to Weldon without navigating the rapids at River Falls Park. You can even end your day at Weldon Mills Distillery, a short walk from the outtake."

Steven Bailey, facility construction engineer, and Gary Gardner, engineer division chief of the Wildlife Resources Commission, were on hand to cut the ribbon.