A 1.3-kilometre paved trail for cyclists, walkers and joggers was officially opened on Tuesday morning.
The pathway is two metres wide. It runs adjacent to Highway 97, between Landry Crescent and Lakeshore Drive.
“Everyone who uses this trail now has a safe place to enjoy their favourite activity from Trout Creek to downtown Summerland,” said Dan Ashton, MLA for the riding of Penticton. “This project is another example of our government’s commitment to expanding and improving infrastructure for all types of transportation.”
Ashton said the $730,000 project is an example of cooperation between the province an the municipality.
The project was part of B.C, on the Move, a 10-year plan to improve the province’s transportation network.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and the municipality worked in partnership on the project.
Summerland contributed $80,000 for the work.
Mayor Peter Waterman said the trail provides a connection between Lowertown and Trout Creek.
“The Lakeshore Pathway provides a wonderful, safe link between Lowertown and the Trout Creek area for residents and tourists alike,” he said.
Mark Pendergraft, chair of the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen, said the pathway will benefit the area.
“This connection is a tremendous contribution to enhancing the region’s cycling network and an example of the kind of partnerships that will keep our region on the leading edge of cycling tourism.”
“It’s a really exciting time for trail development in the Okanagan,” said Don Gemmell, who has long promoted the trail concept.
BD Hall Constructors Corp. of Surrey completed the work.
Those present at the ribbon cutting on Tuesday morning spoke about the possibility of expanding the trail network in the future.
“I can just see the pieces all starting to fit together,” Ashton said, adding that he would like to see a future phase between Trout Creek and Penticton.