Federal funding helps complete Lake to Lake bike network

The final section of Penticton’s Lake to Lake bike route will be developed thanks in part to federal funding.

The federal government has committed $840,000 from the Active Transportation Fund, as well $510,000 from the Canada Community-Building Fund, to help with completing the route that goes between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake.

The City of Penticton will contribute $924,000 in municipal funds for the final section of the project as well.

Once complete, there will be a full bike route between the two lakes that can be used by cyclists of all ages and abilities, and will feature bike maintenance stations, public water bottle filling stations, lighting and rest areas.

The Lake to Lake project is one of six active transportation projects in B.C. benefiting from a combined investment of $4.6-million through the Active Transportation Fund .

“Our government is committed to investing in projects that bring a host of diverse benefits to communities,” Harjit Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and the Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, said. “The projects we are announcing [Friday] will not only improve community safety and connectivity, they will provide British Columbians with greener transportation options.”

The Lake to Lake Bike Route is the only Okanagan-based project receiving funding through this investment. It is also the only project of the six announced Friday, March 15, to receive additional funds through the Canada Community-Building Fund.