The Okanagan Rail Trail is one step closer to becoming a reality as the initiative accepts $471,500 from the Government of Canada’s Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP).
Stephen Fuhr, MP for Kelowna-Lake Country, made the announcement on Tuesday.
“I want to congratulate all those who are working so hard to bring this legacy project to fruition,” said Fuhr. “The Okanagan Rail Trail will connect our communities, allow us to explore the heritage and beauty of the Okanagan and provide an outstanding recreational and tourist destination for many generations to come.”
The funds will rehabilitate 49.5 km of abandoned CN rail grade for the trail, connecting the Vernon, Lake Country and Kelowna for cyclists and pedestrians.
“The communities along the trail are grateful to Community Futures and WD’s Canada 150 program for supporting the development of the trail. By working together, we will finish the trail,” said trail ambassador Brad Clements.
The Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program is part of Canada 150 Celebrates. As part of their 2016 budget, the government provided an additional $150 million over two years to Canada’s Regional Development Agencies for community funding in Western Canada.
Currently, the Government of Canada has a focus on investing in projects that seek to renovate, expand and improve existing community infrastructure in the country.
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