A proposed pathway which would provide a link between Okanagan communities has received interest from around the valley.
The Trail of the Okanagans would provide pedestrians and cyclists with a safe route, beside the lake. It would also have significant benefits for the region’s tourism-related businesses.
The Okanagan Valley is a significant tourism destination. Vacationers help to drive our economy.
Any initiative which enhances the experience for visitors is worth considering.
The support so far has been remarkable, but there are still some challenges involved.
Dealing with numerous communities, regional districts, provincial constituencies and federal ridings means coordinating a lot of elected officials. It means the pathway is not just Summerland’s trail and not just Penticton’s trail. It benefits all.
In addition, because of the proximity to Highway 97, the provincial Ministry of Highways would have a say in this trail.
With the number of people involved, progress could move slowly.
However, the slow pace could work to benefit the promoters of the trail.
Because the pace is slow, it will allow those who may question its benefits at present to become familiar with the concept and eventually embrace it.
Considering the amount of support for the project at present and the diversity of the people and organizations interested in the pathway, it is likely the work will go ahead with little if any opposition.
The sooner the necessary agreements can be reached the sooner the work can begin.
Then, once it is completed, the benefits should be easy to see as visitors come to the area to experience the pathway for themselves.