On August 5, we were pleased to join council members from the City of Kelowna and the District of Lake Country, as well as other government and community partners, at a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of a new section of the Okanagan Rail Trail.

The City of Kelowna has completed a 3.2-kilometre section of the trail through City-owned land north of the Kelowna International Airport. In the District of Lake Country, a 500m section north of Beaver Lake Road has been improved, including a new crossing light. The City and District of Lake Country intend to finish paving these sections in the future. 

"After many years of anticipation, we are thrilled to celebrate the completion of this new section of the Okanagan Rail Trail," said City of Kelowna Mayor Dyas. "The Rail Trail has become one of the most loved amenities in our valley, and this long-awaited addition provides a safer alternative to travelling alongside Highway 97, making it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy all that our region has to offer. It is another important step toward the long-term vision of a fully connected trail network from downtown to the airport."

Work has also been completed on the Rail Trail section adjacent to Airport Way. This section provides a consistent style of cycling trail for users. The existing pathways for pedestrians and cyclists along Airport Way will be maintained. The project improves safety and adds a key connection along a long-standing gap in the trail network.

“Every new section of the Okanagan Rail Trail is something to celebrate because it brings our communities closer together,” said District of Lake Country Mayor Blair Ireland. “This project has taken years of collaboration, and it's rewarding to see that work paying off. There's still more work ahead, but each new section makes it easier for people to get outside, connect with neighbouring communities, and enjoy everything the Okanagan Rail Trail has to offer.”

A 2.6-kilometre section of the trail remains unfinished; however, the process to transfer the land between the Government of Canada, CN Rail, and Okanagan Indian Band is ongoing. The incomplete section has clear signage and users are advised to use caution should they continue in these areas.

"I was proud to support over $1.8 million in federal funding to help create the Okanagan Rail Trail in 2018. Today, the trail welcomes almost 600,000 users each year, connecting our communities, supporting active transportation, and showcasing the incredible natural beauty of the Okanagan," said the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Member of Parliament for Kelowna and Secretary of State (Defence Procurement), who was also in attendance. "I am excited to see this important regional asset continue to grow as another section of the trail is completed."

"The Okanagan Rail Trail has become one of our region's most valued recreational and active transportation corridors, connecting communities and providing residents and visitors with a safe, scenic way to explore the Okanagan," stated Director Bob Fleming, Chair of the Regional District of North Okanagan Greater Vernon Advisory Committee. “The completion of these additional sections represents another important milestone toward realizing the full vision of the trail, strengthening regional connectivity and enhancing opportunities for healthy, sustainable transportation throughout the valley."

The Okanagan Rail Trail is supported by all levels of government, as well as by many community donors and volunteers whose collective contributions were instrumental in making it a reality. The City will continue working with partners toward full completion of the remaining section.

Content above sourced from a City of Kelowna News Release.