The Town has been successful in obtaining a Provincial grant for the construction of a multi-use trail along the irrigation canal south of Similkameen Avenue. The total budget of $607,000 is broken down into the Province paying 70% ($425,000) and the Town paying the remaining amount ($182,000).
As part of the Oliver Active Transportation, Downtown Beautification and Wayfinding Plan the “Ditch” trail (Canal) from Similkameen to Road #2 was identified as a recreational trail network proposed area, through converting the existing maintenance access road to a multi-use path. It would provide an accessible off-street path for walking and cycling on the west side of town.
Construction is anticipated to begin July, 2023.
A 4ft black chain link fence will be built between the canal and the path for the entire stretch, along with solar bollards, signage, benches, garbage cans, and dog poop bag dispensers. Staff are working with the Heritage Society to have information signage installed along the north entry to the trail along Similkameen Avenue. Furthermore, Staff have located a piece of concrete from 1920 from the Gallagher Lake area of the canal that will be relocated to the new trail and used as a heritage attraction.
As part of the construction process, Fairview Park will need to be modified in order to direct pedestrians and cyclists towards the existing crosswalk at Fairview Road rather than constructing a new crosswalk in close proximity to two others. The existing asphalt shown in orange line below will be removed and the area will be restored with landscaping.
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