A significant amount of work has been completed on the historic Adra Tunnel on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail above Naramata.
Earlier this year, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen said engineering assessments were beginning.
Shortly after that, the province approved physical rock bolting and shotcrete work could begin.
Now, six months later, the regional district says more than 2,000 cubic metres of rock has been removed, 121 of the 412 bolts have been installed and 42 cubic metres of shotcrete has been sprayed in the tunnel.
All that work has seen 365 metres of the tunnel secured with about 121 metres of work remaining.
The restoration project was initiated by a community group known as the Woodwackers 2.0 and is made up of a diverse community network.
The regional district is working with the group, Recreation Sites and Trails BC and several local contractors to reopen the tunnel.
“The reopening of the Adra Tunnel will enhance tourism in the region and become a destination for people of all ages,” said Adrienne Fedrigo, Electoral Area “E” director.
“This important restoration project is the result of a strong community vision and financial contributions from a wide cross section of the community.”
The 109-year-old tunnel has been closed for over 40 years and once it reopens, it will offer up a 90-minute e-bike ride from Penticton to Kelowna.
To learn more about the Adra Tunnel, view pictures of all the work being done or make donations to help complete the project, feel free to visit this link.
