Rossland, Nelson, Castlegar get funding for trail improvement
By Province of British Columbia
Recreational trails in the Columbia Basin are cherished by users year-round. To ensure they’re in top shape and an enjoyable experience, groups throughout the region, including Rossland, Nelson, Castlegar, Warfield and Slocan, are undertaking projects with support from Columbia Basin Trust. Currently, 23 projects in 18 communities are focusing on improving trails, while 16 organizations in 14 communities are adding 42 trail crew jobs.
“These programs offer a two-pronged approach to growing and upkeeping the trails that are so important to residents, visitors and community well-being,” said Justine Cohen, Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “Organizations can tackle their priorities when it comes to making their trail systems the best they can be. Many are also adding to their workforce to accomplish their tasks.”
Projects include activities like building connector trails, enhancing existing trails or adding infrastructure like washrooms or signage. The Trust is also providing wage subsidies so organizations can hire trail workers, enabling unemployed and underemployed Basin residents to gain work experience and advance their skills while enhancing trails.
To view all the recent trail enhancement projects, click here. To view all the recent trail crew projects, click here.
Nelson Aims High
Accessibility and the environment are top-of-mind for the Nelson Cycling Club as it rehabilitates half a kilometre of the Lefty and Rhythm and Blues trails. It is also creating three trail crew jobs.
“Inclusive shared spaces are essential to all communities,” said Wendy Lewis, Program Manager. “The Nelson Cycling Club aims to continue breaking down barriers for mountain bikers and increasing the diversity of trail experiences. The completion of a high-quality, adaptive-friendly mountain bike loop fills an important gap in our trail system.”
Columbia Basin Trust supports the ideas and efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, and how it helps deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the Basin, visit ourtrust.org.
