To the editor:
I believe the acquisition of the CN rail corridor for a Lake Country rail trail is a critical component in making Lake Country a better place to live, work and play.
The lifestyle offered by Lake Country combined with the vision of its leaders for the region to seek a balance between rural and urban communities encouraged me to purchase my retirement house there. While I do not live in the area, if I could I would vote yes and I would urge my neighbours to vote yes too.
Acquisition of the Lake Country rail trail is a once in a lifetime opportunity that will determine how the region will develop. The trail will help preserve the semi-rural atmosphere of the region and become a key component in a development plan that supports the quality of life and sustainable economic growth opportunities created by the nearby Kelowna airport and University of British Colombia campus.
It will also help to stimulate tourism by providing economic benefits to vineyards and wineries, fruit growers, restaurants, bed and breakfasts, retailers and other tourist services. The economic spinoffs from these businesses will provide the additional tax base required to help pay the costs of providing infrastructure in Lake Country.
If we want to continue to live an enviable lifestyle in one of Canada’s more desirable regions, and at the same time provide amenities and economic opportunities for future generations, I urge you to vote yes for the Lake Country rail corridor purchase on April 25.
Dennis C. Floate, Calgary