The Province, Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen and trail user groups have finalized a plan to enhance the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail network near Naramata and maintain motor vehicle access to Little Tunnel.

The decision to continue motor vehicle access to Little Tunnel came after the local user groups worked together with the Province and RDOS to address concerns and reach a consensus about the potential loss of access to important landmarks and cultural features for less able-bodied residents and visitors.

The popular six-kilometre section of the KVR between Naramata and Little Tunnel will be limited to non-motorized use. Restricting motor vehicles on this part will enhance the safety and recreation experience for pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians as well as maintain the newly resurfaced trail. The non-motorized designation of the trail between Naramata and Little Tunnel will come into effect this spring.

Motorized users, including licensed on-highway vehicles, will be able to continue accessing a five-kilometre section of the KVR between the Glenfir trail head and Little Tunnel. The province will enhance and maintain this part of the former rail corridor with safety improvements, construction of a parking area, turnaround signs and an accessible trail to the tunnel. The province will monitor motor vehicle traffic on this section for one year, and make any necessary changes to ensure the safety of all users.

This follows recommendations from the local working group to initiate the first phase of the KVR Trail Concept Plan between Naramata and Glenfir. Designations and developments along parts of the KVR beyond Glenfir have not been finalized.

The province also continues to work with the off-road vehicle community on recreational opportunities, including the enhancement of staging areas, trails and riding opportunities, in the area between Naramata and Chute Lake. Motorized recreation remains an important backcountry activity, and the Province is committed to high-quality, world-class recreational trail opportunities for all 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 improved quality of life for residents and increased tourism revenues from visitors.

Quotes:

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

"This plan for the Kettle Valley Rail Trail network, with its improved safety and enhanced recreational opportunities, will help keep the spectacular scenery, landmarks and cultural heritage accessible to all users."

MLA for Penticton, Dan Ashton -

"The Kettle Valley Rail Trail is one of the Okanagan Valley's true recreational and cultural gems. This plan will help ensure the KVR continues to draw residents and visitors, no matter how they access the trail network."

Quick Facts:

• In October 2013, the Province invested $140,000 for a new high-quality tread surface upgrade between Naramata and Little Tunnel. Since 2010, a total of $250,000 has been invested in this section of the KVR.
• Since 2004, the Province has invested more than $26 million to maintain and rehabilitate B.C.'s recreation sites and trail system, including more than $6 million for the provincial rail trails network.
• The Kettle Valley Rail Trail features numerous tunnels, trestles and bridges dating back to the KVR's completion in 1915.

Learn More:

Kettle Valley Rail Trail network: 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:

Greig Bethel
Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261