A new multi-use, non-motorized trail in Jaffray has officially opened, giving residents a safer route away from highway traffic after years of community work.
About 50 people attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday evening to mark the opening of the Jaffray Trail, which runs alongside Highway 3/93 and connects with the West Jaffray trail network.
“In the interest of public safety, it’s a great addition to the community,” Regional District of East Kootenay Electoral Area B director Stan Doehle said.
The project was more than seven years in the making and involved the South Country Trails and Recreation Association, the RDEK, provincial government, private property owners, contractors, businesses and other community partners.
The idea for the trail began after a private property owner saw a mother pushing a stroller along the shoulder of the highway while heading to get her mail, according to the South Country Trails and Recreation Association.
The property owner donated a portion of land for right-of-way access and the association began fundraising and applying for grants.
“As transport trucks passed right by her, he realized a safer option was needed. He approached our committee and contributed a portion of his property for the right of way access. Our committee then got to work with fundraising and grant applications and the rest, as they say, is history. It is so rewarding to have this safe, beautiful new asset in our community for all to enjoy,” association chair Anne Anderson said.
The paved trail was built within the Highway 3 right-of-way, connecting Rosen Lake Road with the existing West Jaffray trail network.
The project received $500,000 through the B.C. Active Infrastructure Grant program, along with $100,000 from the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative and $50,000 from Columbia Basin Trust.
The trail became an RDEK Electoral Area B park this year.
“It’s there for all residents to enjoy.” said Doehle.
Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up for MyEastKootenayNow News Alerts.
