The Town of Oliver is hoping to secure a $4.5 million grant for active transportation enhancements in the community.
On June 13 council agreed to submit a grant application for capital infrastructure projects under the local roads, bridges and active transportation category.
One project is a strategic master plan for the Oliver Airport. Another is a multi-phase active transportation project.
The first phase includes upgrading the existing Gala linear park into a multi-use trail. This includes connecting the park to Highway 97 via Hillside Street, and expanding to the irrigation canal from Similkameen Avenue to Road 2. The total cost for this phase is approximately $1.5 million.
Phase two involves the addition of curb and sidewalk, and a multi-use path along Fairview Road from Princess Place to Similkameen Avenue/Spartan Street. The total cost is approximately $1.9 million.
Phase three includes enhancing the existing International Hike and Bike Path within town boundaries. This will feature new lighting, signage and resurfacing for a total cost of approximately $1.1 million.
Councillor Dave Mattes said there is plenty of room to make a bike trail down to Highway 97 at the north end of Lion’s Park. He noted the crossing will slow down traffic coming into town.
Director of Operations Shawn Goodsell said there is no controlled intersection there, so he suggested pedestrian lights to make it safe.
