As part of the long-term vision for the Kettle Valley Railway Trail to be a vibrant, world-class recreation destination, the Province is investing over $100,000 to upgrade the trail between Naramata and Little Tunnel.

The project includes a new high-quality tread surface for a six-kilometre portion of the trail. The upgrade will be completed this fall to take advantage of funding and resources available through this year's budget for recreation site and trail maintenance and improvements. Work is expected to start towards the end of the month.

A decision regarding motorized vehicle use of the trail in the Naramata area has not yet been made. The Province will make a final decision regarding motorized use of the trail in the Naramata area - from Glenfir Trailhead to Little Tunnel - after an assessment of the public safety and liability aspects of allowing continued highway vehicle use is complete.

Motorized recreation remains an important backcountry activity, and the Province is committed to high-quality recreational trail opportunities for all trail users. The provincial rail trails network across southern B.C. makes up more than half of the 1,600-kilometre Trans Canada Trail. These trails hold significant potential benefits for trail users and communities along the trail, including both improved quality of life for residents, and increased tourism revenue.

Quotes:

Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson -

"These improvements will provide a safer and higher quality experience for residents and tourists using the KVR Trail - one of the most well-known rail trails in British Columbia and Canada."

MLA for Penticton, Dan Ashton -

"This government is a strong supporter of the Kettle Valley Railway corridor in the Okanagan Valley. The upgrades will help ensure the trail continues to draw visitors to the region providing them a first-class recreational experience."

Quick Facts:

• Since 2004, B.C. has invested more than $26 million to maintain and rehabilitate B.C.'s recreation sites and trails system, including over $6 million for B.C.'s Rail Trail Network.
• The Kettle Valley Railway Trail features numerous tunnels, trestles and bridges dating back to the Kettle Valley railway completed in 1915.

Learn More:

Read the Forest Recreation Regulation, Forest and Range Practices Act: http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/tasb/legsregs/archive/fpc/fpcaregs/forrec/frr.htm

Kettle Valley Railway Trail: http://www.kettlevalleyrailtrail.com/

Recreation Sites and Trails BC: http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/default.aspx

Join the backcountry community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BCRecSitesandTrails

Media Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261