Pressure is growing to develop a new recreational amenity in Coldstream.
The North Okanagan Cycling Society has asked the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee to assist with construction of a 10-kilometre, multi-use trail in Ranchlands Park, near Ravine Drive.
“We want to build a culture of mountain biking in our community,” said Mark Dowhaniuk, with the society.
“We’re seeking public and private partners to fund trails.”
Besides mountain bikers, the trail could be used for walking, running and possibly horseback riders.
“We’d like to move forward with it in 2015,” said Dowhaniuk.
The total project cost is $40,000.
“We have about $10,000 to commit and we can commit about the same in-kind and in volunteer labour,” said Dowhaniuk.
The group is also pursuing a grant from the National Trails Program.
No commitment for funding has been made, but GVAC members appear supportive of the concept.
“I like the idea of a group from the community coming and putting these things forward,” said director Mike Macnabb.
GVAC staff have been directed to work with the society and other stakeholders to develop a trail plan for Ranchlands Park.
“There are issues with parking and we will need input from the District of Coldstream,” said Doug Dirk, a Coldstream councillor.
The society’s long-term goal is to have trails linked to each other throughout Greater Vernon.
“We really want to bring people to the community. We would like them to stay for awhile,” said Dowhaniuk of the economic benefits from mountain biking.
