Annual construction on the Rail Trail in the North Okanagan and Shuswap has resumed, with plans to eventually create a 50-kilometre trail that will pass through lakefront shorelines, forested hillsides, streams, farmlands, and rural towns. The finished surface will be suitable for pedestrian and bicycle use, as well as universal mobility access, with pedal-assisted E-bikes and dogs on leash allowed, but no motorized vehicles or equestrian use permitted. Last year, a two-kilometre section was completed in Enderby, and this year, work will take place between kilometres 1.5 to 4.5, as well as sections south of kilometres 42 to Stepney X Road and kilometres 49 to 50 at Lansdowne Road in Armstrong. Funding attempts are also being made for a pedestrian overpass at Highway 97, and construction is set to follow a decommissioned train line with the Splatsin Development Corporation as the primary contractor.
A public hearing is scheduled for April 10 to address concerns raised by water-front landowners near Sicamous regarding a one-kilometre stretch of the trail. A zoning bylaw to allow the rail trail to proceed was voted down by the District of Sicamous, leading to the public hearing. An online petition with over 900 signatures has been started to support the bylaw amendment becoming law. The rail trail construction will involve work on various sections, including those between Stepney X Road and Lansdowne Road, and efforts are being made to secure additional funding for the project. The rail trail will provide a scenic path for pedestrians and cyclists through the region, offering a mix of natural landscapes and urban areas along the way.
The Rail Trail construction in the North Okanagan and Shuswap is part of a larger effort to promote outdoor recreation and connectivity in the region. Once completed, the trail will offer a safe and accessible route for residents and visitors to explore the area while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. The use of pedal-assisted E-bikes and the inclusion of pet-friendly policies will make the trail inclusive for a wide range of users, further enhancing its appeal. By completing sections of the trail each year, the regional district is making steady progress towards the goal of a 50-kilometre trail that showcases the diversity of the landscape in the area.
The involvement of the Splatsin Development Corporation as the primary construction contractor for the rail trail project highlights the collaboration between local communities and Indigenous organizations to support infrastructure development in the region. This partnership not only ensures the completion of the project but also fosters economic opportunities and job creation within the community. The rail trail will serve as a valuable asset for local residents and businesses, attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts to the area while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. The construction of pedestrian overpasses and other amenities along the trail demonstrates a commitment to safety and accessibility for all users, further enhancing the overall experience of the trail.
The public hearing regarding the concerns raised by water-front landowners near Sicamous underscores the importance of community engagement and stakeholder input in the decision-making process for the rail trail project. By addressing these concerns and seeking input from residents, the regional district can ensure that the trail meets the needs and expectations of the local community. The online petition advocating for the bylaw amendment to proceed reflects the public support for the rail trail project and the desire to see it successfully completed. Through open communication and transparency, the regional district can build trust and collaboration among stakeholders, leading to a more successful and sustainable rail trail project in the North Okanagan and Shuswap region.
