Planning for the Okanagan Rail Trail remains on track.
Considerable work is occurring behind the scenes to develop the recreational corridor between Coldstream and Kelowna.
“We’re trying to move along,” said David Sewell, Regional District of North Okanagan chief administrative officer.
Among the actions being taken are tenders for access control barricades and geotechnical work.
One of the challenges limiting future work, though, is limited cash.
“We will move as fast as the fundraising comes in,” said Sewell.
“If we had the $7.8 million, we would have a much firmer timeline.”
About $2 million for development of the trail has been raised to date.
While the recreational corridor is not officially open, residents are using portions of it depending on the jurisdiction.
“In the RDNO, the trail is not maintained or developed but it is not closed. Use it at your own risk,” said Sewell.
In Kelowna, current access of the property is prohibited.”
The partners are looking at holding public open houses on the trail.
“We want to let the public have input into the process — tell us what your expectations are,” said Sewell.
The goal is to also deal with some of the rumours circulating, including a perception that dogs will not be permitted on the trail.
“Dogs on a leash will be allowed,” said Sewell.