North Cowichan will receive $472,311 in BikeBC funding for the Trans-Canada Multi-Use Path, announced Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone.

“The BikeBC funding program for cycling infrastructure is a great way for communities to expand or enhance their current trail and path systems,” Stone said. “This new multi-use path will be a great addition to North Cowichan’s cycling network and provides more opportunities for residents and visitors to cycle for commuting, recreation and tourism.”

The new 1.6-kilometre trail will run from the Dike Trail Terminus to Drinkwater Road East, creating a safe cycling and pedestrian connection along the Trans-Canada Highway. It will include a separated trail surface, a full-length barrier between the trail and the highway, boardwalks and interpretive signage identifying features in the adjacent Somenos Marsh ecosystem. The new path will also connect to existing transit services in the community.

This project is part of $9.25 million in funding this year for cycling infrastructure projects, including bike lanes, multi-use trails and improvements to roads and highways to improve the safety of cyclists. Through B.C. on the Move, the government’s 10-year transportation plan, the ministry has now committed $20 million over three years to the BikeBC program.

BikeBC is the Province’s cost-sharing program that helps communities build cycling projects that attract and support commuter and tourism cyclists.  Since 2001, the Government of B.C. has invested more than $230 million in cycling grants and infrastructure throughout the province.

Over the next three years the ministry and its partners are investing over $4.6 billion in priority transportation investments as part of B.C. on the Move.

Learn More:

For more information about cycling funding in B.C., visit: www.gov.bc.ca/cyclingfunding