Funding for a community trail in the Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park near was announced by the B.C. government Saturday.
“The announcement of this grant from the provincial government will improve our trail system for not only our residents but for the thousands of people that come to our community to relax and rejuvenate,” said Bill Dickey, the area’s representative at the Fraser Valley Regional District.
The $114,567 will be used to build six new sections of the trail, expand a portion of an existing boardwalk and install a pedestrian crossing.
The 93-hectare park near Popkum was created in 1990 and features a two-km long trail that winds through the marsh, home to more than 180 different bird species, mammals and insects.
It is not suitable for pets or for fishing, but its facilities include an information kiosk, shelter, toilets and picnic tables.
Chilliwack MLA John Les, former FVRD chairman, said the expanded trail system “will encourage residents and visitors alike to live active, healthy lifestyles while enabling them to enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful, natural setting.”
Funding for projects in Hope and Boston Bar were also announced.
The City of Hope is getting $370,575 to upgrade the Hope Community Recreation Park and the community of Boston Bar is getting $336,800 to upgrade the Almer Carlson Pool and build an outdoor community pavilion.
The funds are part of the Community Recreation Program that has approved more than $70 million for projects since it was announced in 2011. An estimated 458 direct jobs have been created as a result, plus 251 indirect jobs.
