Two new trail systems are underway in Clearwater.
Members of the District of Clearwater council, Trails Task Force committee and Borrows Enterprises gathered at the Wells Gray Inn for a groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday, June 15.
“The Clearwater Trails Task Force is a tenacious, determined group of volunteers that have helped bring the community vision of a trails network to life,” said Clearwater mayor Merlin Blackwell. “It’s great to see this dream come to fruition. Thanks to our granting partners, like the Wells Gray Community Forest and the province, that made these new trails possible.”
According to a press release from the DOC, one multi-use pathway will flow through the Dutch Lake subdivision to the Clearwater River trailhead and the other will attach the Wells Gray Inn and the roundabout on Highway 5. Both trails will paved.
Grant monies from the province’s Tourism-dependent Communities fund will be used to construct the Dutch Lake pathway. Clearwater is one of 32 communities that rely heavily on tourism revenues sharing a combined $19.4 million through the initiative intended to create jobs and valuable assets for communities to attract more visitors.
The Safe Connector pathway along Highway 5 is funded by the BC Active Transportation Infrastructure grants program, part of B.C.’s strategy for cleaner and more active transportation system. It is also part of the province’s CleanBC plan to reduce carbon pollution, according to the press release.
The two pathways will add to the numerous past and future projects completed to provide safe trails connecting people all over town. They connect Clearwater’s three main business areas together and support a healthier and more active lifestyle, allowing residents of all ages to walk or bike to their destination, aligning with the District’s Trails Master Plan.
Clearwater is the gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park, inviting visitors and tourists from all over the world. The trails system will provide an additional option to explore the community outdoors, encourage those visiting to lengthen their stay.
Local contractor Borrow Enterprises Ltd. was awarded the construction contract for both trails.
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