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Penticton resident Ian Lobb has been elected to serve as chair of The Trail of the Okanagan steering committee.

A local cycling tour director, Lobb was instrumental in connecting the 68 communities along the Waterfront Trail that features more than 700 kilometres of pathways around Lake Ontario. He replaces Connie Denesiuk, who stepped down earlier this year.

“I’ve worked with and learned from some incredible people in North America and overseas while developing routes and cycling events,” says Lobb. “Having experienced some of the world’s great trails, it’s easy to see the positive impact connectivity will have on this region. Our goal is to bring people together and help create a connection to communities for residents and visitors alike to experience the beauty of the Interior.”

The volunteer group of trail enthusiasts and local governments and tourism offices is collaborating to develop a world-class recreational pathway that runs the length of the Okanagan Valley, from the Shuswap in the north to Osoyoos in the south.

Phase 1 of the Summerland-to-Penticton portion of the pathway is expected to open in July. The 1.3-kilometre section will extend alongside Highway 97 in Summerland between Lakeshore Drive and Summerland RV Park.

The recreational pathway, to be constructed by the B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, is expected to be a minimum of two metres wide. A continuous concrete barrier will separate it from the highway’s shoulder, making it safe for casual cyclists and walkers.

Major funding for Phase 1 is coming from the province ($400,000) and the District of Summerland ($100,000). Phase 2 involves extending the pathway through Trout Creek to Sun-Oka Provincial Park and along the lake to Penticton.