Planning for a rail trail between Sicamous and Armstrong has continued the past two months despite challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic.
On Friday, the Shuswap Trail Alliance announced that preliminary assessments have been made, and that technical consultants have been accessing the currently-closed rail corridor this spring to complete planning work.
The trail will be 50 kilometres in length, with the alliance stating fundraising is now a top priority.
“As part of the commitment to tell the true story of the region within the Secwepemc Nation Territory, preliminary assessments have been conducted by Splatsin leadership for both archaeological and cultural heritage values,” the alliance said in a press release.
Further, it said geotechnical, environmental, agricultural, stormwater, erosion control and steep slope planning, plus structural bridge assessments, are being done by local experts.
Also being done are flood monitoring and invasive plant mitigation.
The alliance said the rail corridor is closed to the public until the trail can be safely developed for walking and cycling.
It added that residents living near the greenway can expect to see authorized personnel occasionally travelling the corridor by foot or vehicle.
Temporary kilometre markers have also been installed to assist in the planning.
“Political support for the rail trail remains strong among all partners, who recognize the significant social and economic opportunity the rail trail holds for the communities throughout the region,” said the alliance.
“This is particularly important, given the upcoming period of economic recovery following the pandemic.”
The alliance said when public health measures allow it, in-person consultations and public meetings will resume.
For more information about the rail trail, click here.
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