It’s stellar news for Chilliwack hikers.
Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon MP Mark Strahl announced federal funding this week for area recreational trails from Hope to Chilliwack and beyond.
The Government of Canada is providing $10 million to help expand and rehabilitate Canada’s snowmobile, all-terrain vehicle and non-motorized trail system under the Economic Action Plan 2014 and in partnership with the National Trails Coalition.
“I’m very pleased to announce federal investments in these local projects. Recreational trails not only help residents enjoy the beauty of British Columbia they can be a catalyst for economic growth,” said Strahl.
This means up to 200 trail projects across Canada are expected to get a boost.
Funding is for the following trails:
• Chilliwack River Valley Hiking Trails - $28,500 for trail restoration
• Hudson Bay Company Heritage Trail - $25,850 for trail restoration in Hope
• Slim Creek Trail - $4,800 for resurfacing and clearing of trails in Gold Bridge
• Coquihalla Summit Snowmobile Club - $18,820 for trail upgrades
• Vedder Mountain Trail Works - $25,050 for trail upgrades
More on the fund at http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/prog/nrtp-psrn-eng.html.
That’s good news for one group, Chilliwack Trails Society, getting ready to fix up some of the trails in the Chilliwack River Valley.
“We are currently finalizing our plans for how the money will be used and which sections of our trail network are in the greatest need of improvement,” said Sam Waddington of the Chilliwack Trails Society.
The work will include general trail maintenance, bridging and minor infrastructure projects, on-trail and trail head signage improvements.
“Chilliwack residents and backcountry tourists alike should begin to notice trail improvements as early as this summer,” Waddington added.