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Vernon  

Predator wants to go riding

Predator Ridge wants people to go for a ride.

The North Okanagan golf resort was at Vernon city council chambers Tuesday asking civic leaders to support a trail connecting Predator with the Okanagan Rail Trail system that runs from Coldstream to Kelowna.

Brad Pelletier, with Predator Ridge, said a trail connecting the golf resort with the ORT would benefit the entire region.

Pelletier said every year, a survey identified trails as the No. 1 priority for residents and to that end, Predator has built numerous hiking, biking and walking trails.

“The trails are there for everybody to enjoy, not just our residents,” said Pelletier.

Matt Ball, with the North Okanagan Cycling Society, said numerous groups support the multi-use connector trail.

Ball said there are “lots of trails” already at Predator Ridge and many riders go to Predator for those trails.

Carmen Lindsay, director of recreation at Predator Ridge, said Predator has 40 km of trails, some of which connect to the trails at Ellison Provincial Park, which borders Predator.

The NOCS is very active on the Ellison trail system, spending considerable time and money to upgrade the mountain bike paths.

Lindsay said Predator builds mountain bike trails “every year,” but the area is also popular with road cyclists.

Lindsay pointed out Predator recently purchased a shuttle bus to take people to the ORT as well as a fleet of rental bikes for anyone who wants to rent one.

The delegation was asking for city support in connecting the ORT with the golf course.

“We know where the start is, we know where the finish is but need support for the middle part,” said Ball.

Coun. Akbal Mund said the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure would have to be involved.

“That's what we need the politicians to address,” said Ball, adding there is already a tunnel under Highway 97 that could be used.

Coun. Brian Quiring stated his support for the project, saying “I will do whatever I can, for sure.”

Mayor Victor Cumming was also quick to endorse the idea, saying people are interested in the trail.

Staff has been asked provide a report for the next council meeting.



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