Erosion mitigation and construction to RDNO sections of the Okanagan Rail Trail are in full swing and on schedule.
Rock and materials continue to be hauled through the Kekuli Bay trail access, and contractors have now extended hauling routes to include the Kickwillie trail access in order to complete round trips quicker. Full daytime trail closures will now be in place from Kickwillie (on the Coldstream side of the trail) at KM 2.5 to south of Kekuli Bay Park at KM 12.5.
“We understand that everyone is eager for the trail to reopen, but kindly ask that users respect the closure and avoid disruption of construction materials on site” stated Mike Fox, General Manager of Community Services. “Working around users who ignore signage and move materials will make this process longer for everyone, and we are hoping to get work done as efficiently as possible so enjoyment of the trail can continue”.
Trail users are asked to be cautious when using the trail and to abide by all construction signage, as trucks will be hauling materials along all sections of the trail. The trail will remain open and accessible in evenings after 5 p.m. and all weekends.
Further trail closures will be communicated as project updates are received. Residents are encouraged to visit www.rdno.ca/ORTwork for detailed maps indicating closure sections before planning any trips to the trail. It is intended to get all erosion mitigation work completed before trail use increases in the spring season.
Background
Past flooding events on Kalamalka Lake led to high water levels that caused serious damage and significantly eroded the Okanagan Rail Trail. The RDNO completed the first phase of this work in September 2019.