The Fernie Valley Pathway between the city and resort is now one step closer to reality thanks to funding secured by the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK).
The money will go towards the pathway’s final design.
“The Regional District of East Kootenay was successful in applying for the BC Active Planning Grant on behalf of the Fernie Trails Alliance, securing funds for $50,000 for the Fernie Valley Pathway final design and construction permitting,” said RDEK Electoral Area A Director Thomas McDonald.
“Once complete, this pathway will increase accessibility for all and benefit both residents and visitors.”
McElhanney Ltd. will design the pathway, and the project is expected to begin this month.
“It’s been about 20 years in the works to get this trail connected, so we’re very excited to be at this stage,” said Fernie Trials Alliance Executive Director Melanie Wrigglesworth.
“It will allow people to move safely from the ski hill down to the city on a nice path that will be maintained all through the seasons.”
So far, the project has secured funding from a few different sources:
- RDEK Elk Valley Property Tax Sharing Agreement – $137,657
- BC Active Planning Grant – $50,000
- Fernie Trail Alliance Contribution – $34,000
- Fernie Snow Valley Community Association – $10,000
The RDEK will seek more funding through the BC Active Infrastructure Grant this fall and if successful, construction could start next year or in 2026.
“It’s really nice to see this come to fruition and have this connect the pathway for our community,” said Wrigglesworth.
“It’s been great working with the RDEK and we’re really looking forward to the ribbon-cutting ceremony someday when we open this trail.”
Once complete, the RDEK says the pathway will be incorporated into its Regional Park Plan as an Electoral Area A Park.
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