Construction underway on missing Rail Trail connection

Construction has begun on a 3.2-kilometre stretch of the missing Okanagan Rail Trail.

The City of Kelowna said the connection will go over municipal land and connect the trail between Old Vernon Road near the Kelowna International Area and the Lake Country boundary near Beaver Lake Road.

The trail extension was expected to be done by the summer. The City of Kelowna said this project would also see pedestrian crossing improvements at Old Vernon and Beaver Lake Roads, as well as trail upgrades north of the new section, also ahead of the summer.

“The Okanagan Rail Trail is one of the most important and valued amenities in our region, connecting communities and giving residents and visitors a unique way to experience the Okanagan,” Mayor Tom Dyas stated.

“A great deal of work has gone into getting us to this point, and advancing this section is a meaningful step toward completing a fully connected trail from Coldstream to downtown Kelowna, improving safety and creating an enjoyable experience for those using the trail. This progress reflects strong regional collaboration and a shared commitment to delivering something people will enjoy for generations. We will continue working in partnership with OKIB toward a fully connected and accessible regional trail.”

Minor safety improvements, including fire mitigation, surface work and warning signage, will also be done on a 2.6-kilometre stretch of the path involved in the ongoing transfer of CN Rail land to the OKIB. Trail construction and public access to that section will not be opened until the land transfer is finalized and the OKIB Council gives its approval.

“The work on the Rail Trail reflects both regional collaboration and the ongoing responsibility to protect and uphold OKIB’s title and rights,” Okanagan Indian Band Chief Dan Wilson said.

“While strong partnerships with the District of Lake Country and the City of Kelowna continue, there is still important work with Canada to address the section through IR 7, so it is properly recognized as reserve land under OKIB’s jurisdiction. OKIB will continue to advance this work through direct engagement with Canada and expects a clear path forward that respects its title, rights, and responsibilities to the land.”

This trail connection project is being supported through the Okanagan Rail Trail Initiative’s fundraising efforts that saw $900,000 collected through over 5,000 donations.

Once completed, the Rail Trail will span 49.5 kilometres from Coldstream to downtown Kelowna.