ANNOUNCEMENT – for February 23, 2021
Today the Province of BC announced a $976,455 to support a shovel-ready segment of the Invermere to Radium legacy trail expansion project through Eagle Ranch. The announcement was made as part of the Rural Economic Recovery stream of the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program.
Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance is nearing completion of the 25km Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail, connecting the District of Invermere with Fairmont Hot Springs with a paved, accessible, scenic trail along the west side of Lake Windermere. Greenways is turning its attention to the next major project partnership, north, from the District of Invermere to the Village of Radium Hot Springs.
This will be an exciting addition to the region’s trail network – continuing to improve recreation and healthy activity opportunities, providing alternatives for automobile commuting, connecting communities, and adding to the community assets for tourism and economic development.
Greenways has partnered with key stakeholders, including the District of Invermere, Eagle Ranch Resort, the Regional District of Eastern Kootenay, the Shuswap Indian Band and the Village of Radium Hot Springs to expand the Legacy Trail Network by another 20 kilometers. Divided into six trail segments, the Eagle Ranch segment is shovel-ready, with consultations and studies expected in 2021 and construction expected in the 2022 construction season.
“Eagle Ranch is pleased to partner with Greenways, the Shuswap Indian Band, the District of Invermere and our other partners as we work together to build this trail that will play such an important role in economic recovery and growth for the community and region. Outdoor pathway activities are perfect for the times we are living through.” said Guy Turcotte, President of Eagle Ranch Golf Resort.
“We are grateful to the Province for investing in this project. It is a fantastic way to continue to build momentum towards an integrated trail system, create jobs, and support economic recovery” says Lyle Wilson, Chair of the Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance.
“We are excited to begin this next step and look forward to sharing details for the overall project as they develop, including fundraising plans!” said Lianne Lang, Project Manager for Greenways.
About CV Greenways Trail Alliance
The Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance envisions the region between Canal Flats and Donald, BC as connected by land and water greenways. Efforts are aimed at enhancing interconnections within the greenway, so that we may continue to enjoy the Columbia Valley as a thriving eco-district with healthy ecology, community and economy. Work is focused on a collaborative effort between various groups to achieve access to natural spaces for recreation, education, and a thriving community. We believe respect for the environment increases when groups plan, build and maintain trail systems together.