It’s a low bar to be sure, but Quesnel is by far the most walk-able place I’ve ever lived.
In the towns and cities I’ve lived in, it’s clear that the car is king, and anyone hoofing it should just get with the program and drive a car like a normal person.
I don’t get that feeling in Quesnel. Even as Highway 97 boxes in a lot of our active transportation network, there is a freedom to be able to walk anywhere in Quesnel.
There’s a freedom in living in a place that prioritizes the ability to walk the community. It makes the entire community seem more welcoming.
Words from the city have also been backed up by actions. It’s all well and good to say you prioritize walking paths, but it shows through their actions getting snow cleared off of sidewalks and the Riverwalk is a priority. They have even used a budget windfall to purchase equipment specifically for clearing the Riverwalk.
It’s possible all the great vibes I feel about walking Quesnel are all related to that Riverwalk. Hiking the loop for lunch has been a great way for me to clear my mind, and I’m obviously not alone.
Even in the cold of winter, I run into dozens of people using the trails during normal working hours.
The long-awaited interconnector project could prove to provide the final piece of the active transportation puzzle for Quesnel. An easy way to cross from the train station, to the museum and back would be the perfect addition. Once the interconnector moves traffic away from that intersection, hopefully foot traffic can move freely as well.
With the weather improving, and the COVID-19 pandemic seemingly entering into a third wave, there’s never been a better time to use your feet to explore your hometown.
Cassidy Dankochik is the Editor of the Quesnel Cariboo Observer
READ MORE: Portion of Quesnel’s Riverwalk trail to be closed for two years starting Oct. 13
Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email: cassidy.dankochik@quesnelobserver.com
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cassidy.dankochik@quesnelobserver.com
