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Williams Lake receives trail funding

A B.C. government program is providing $550,000 in funding for the extension of the city’s River Valley Trail network.

The Ministry of Community, Sport, and Cultural Development's Community Recreation Program is providing $550,000 in funding for the extension of the city’s River Valley Trail network through the development of an underpass.

The underpass will link the trail system and the Stampede Ground’s equestrian trail system.

The current layout does not provide access to all parts of the trails. The new connection will result in more than 16 kilometres of trail extending from the Stampede Grounds to the Fraser River, enhancing its utilization.

The ministry says improved access to the River Valley will promote pedestrian transportation and a healthy lifestyle via a trail that is accessible to people of any level of ability.

“This ambitious project will help build pedestrian infrastructure and expand the trails so the entire community can enjoy walking, running and biking," says Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett. "It is a significant improvement to Williams Lake’s trail system.”

The ministry says  $30 million will go to 98 projects throughout the province to help build healthier communities and provide important amenities to support B.C. families.

The province is funding up to 80 per cent of eligible costs for projects that enhance recreation infrastructure in communities across the province.

The Community Recreation Program was announced by Premier Christy Clark at the Union of B.C. Municipalities Convention in September 2011.

The total value of approved projects is more than $70 million, which will create an estimated 458 direct jobs and 251 indirect jobs.

Permissions are still needed from CN and BCR; the city will operate and maintain the underpass.