Momentum builds for bikes

Photo: Contributed - Erick Thompson

Various trail and cycling initiatives were proposed for the South Okanagan at the Trails BC AGM in Summerland. 

The Summerland Trans Canada Trail Society hosted the recent meeting, which attracted more than 30 people.

Penticton Mayor Andrew Jakubeit, an avid cyclist, showed a video to illustrate how the region can become a key destination for cyclists.

Jakubeit said it's exciting how much momentum the cycling movement has gained in the Okanagan.

"Things seem to be coming together. Obviously, there is a lot of momentum with the Okanagan rail corridor and we have those opportunities down south as well," he said. "In the next few months, you're going to see the Summerland to Trout Creek lakeside trail get built. In the RDOS, we're continuing to put emphasis on trail systems; more trails and more tenure on trails. A lot of them are getting resurfaced, so that bikes and people of all abilities can get access to it. I think it's very exciting." 

Jakubeit said the Valley is getting closer to becoming a provincially recognized cycling precinct.

"We are gaining traction moving from being self-proclaimed to provincially recognized," said Jakubeit. "The Ministry of Highways is working with us to identify the common routes so they're conscious of that for maintenance and upkeep down the road and enhancements to promote cycling and make sure it has opportunities to grow."

Summerland resident Ellen Walker-Mathews, freshly appointed to lead the Remarkable Trails and Culinary Experiences Program for the Thomson-Okanagan Tourist Association, intrigued guests with a message about the spiritual qualities of the Valley. TOTA has authorized a substantial budget to develop and market trail programs for the international tourist market.

Mark Woods, community services manager for the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, reported how his office has embarked on a major effort to connect cycling and hiking trails from Chute Lake to Osoyoos and Princeton.  

South Okanagan cycling maps were handed out to those in attendance.

"It was a great opportunity to exchange views among those who want to develop the Okanagan Valley into an international cycling and hiking destination," said Henry Sielmann, Trails BC regional director.

The meeting took a more sombre tone when some residents of Faulder described conflicts and danger resulting from increased use of the KVR trail by motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. Their appeal to designate the local trail section for exclusively non-motorized use was applauded by the audience.

Summerland TCT Society president Henry Sielmann congratulated Lake Country for its recent referendum decision approving borrowing to turn the abandoned rail corridor between Kelowna and Coldstream into a recreational pathway.