Thanks to the Province of British Columbia, the community is one step closer to having an off-road trail connection from the Okanagan Rail Trail (ORT) to Predator Ridge and Sparkling Hills Resort.
The RDNO has received $210,000 from the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program (CERIP) to construct a 1.3 km section of multi-use trail that will provide trail users with a safe crossing under Highway 97 between Bailey Road and the Kal/Crystal Waters Trail, which connects to the ORT.
"This is a key first step to connect the Okanagan Rail Trail to the Predator Ridge community, Sparkling Hills Resort, and their associated trail networks," said Akbal Mund, RDNO Director and Chair of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee. "COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of our outdoor recreation amenities. Our trails are busier than ever, and investing in these types of trail connections will not only provide value to local residents but to visitors of our community when we can begin reopening."
The CERIP program was established to invest in small-scale infrastructure projects throughout B.C. The RDNO has received funding through the Destination Development stream, which focused on supporting projects that will provide job opportunities and increase tourism destinations' capacity to welcome visitors.
Trail design and permitting work will begin right away, and construction is expected to commence in late 2021.