The development of the Okanagan Rail Trail is now one step closer to completion thanks to a $100,000 investment by TD Bank Group.
The trail will be one of more than 150 initiatives supported through the year-long TD Common Ground Project, which will leave a legacy of vibrant and resilient green spaces for communities to enjoy across Canada, in recognition of Canada’s 150th anniversary.
“A lot of us are cyclists, a lot of us are active,” said TD – B.C. Southern Interior district vice president Dale Safinuk.
“When we heard about the project, it ties three communities together in an environmental manner,” said Safinuk. “Green spaces are where communities come together to meet, talk and play and where people find common ground and connect.”
The hope for the trail ambassadors is to have other organizations get on board with the project.
“This is the first large corporate contribution to the trail, and we encourage other organizations to donate to this project,” said trail ambassador Heather Stewart.
“Once completed, we expect the trail will enhance tourism, promote healthy living, connect families with nature and provide opportunities for users to learn more about the Syilx people and their traditional territory.”
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Stewart said they were surprised by the amount donated.
The trail ambassadors are hoping the trail will be built next year, fingers crossed, she said.
So far, more than $4.8 million has been raised for the rail trail with the addition of the $100,000.
TD’s contribution will help support the trail development, which when completed will be a 48.5-kilometre multi-use trail that is being planned and developed by four local governments: the City of Kelowna, the District of Lake Country, the Okanagan Indian Band and the North Okanagan Regional District.
