Expansion of Somenos dike trail boon for community
This letter is in support of the proposed expansion of the Somenos Dike Trail.
As a board member of two local trail and cycling advocacy organizations I have firsthand experience in how well constructed multi-use trails provide tremendous benefits to the community at large. The proposed trail expansion of the dike trail along the Somenos Marsh would significantly increase the use of non-motorized transportation in the Cowichan Valley, as it adds a vital connector between two popular areas of our community.
I can empathize with the Somenos Marsh Society and their concerns for expansion into the marsh but feel that this trail expansion will only bring more attention and awareness to this habitat, as it will allow for increased accessibility to explore the existing boardwalk and learn about the marsh rather then simply drive by it.
One only needs to look up the road to the Cowichan Valley Trail to see how much leisure, transportation and tourism benefits trails bring to our local community. This expansion will only increase those benefits for all members of our community.
Matt Grossnickle
Board member, Cowichan Valley Cycling
Board member, Cowichan Trail Stewardship Society
