Working Across Ministries to Protect the Columbia Western Rail Trail
The Columbia Western Rail Trail is an important part of our region.
It connects communities, supports local tourism, and provides access to the outdoors for residents and visitors alike. For many, it is not just a trail, it is part of the economic and recreational backbone of Boundary Similkameen and the Kootenays.
Meeting with Local Leaders and the Province
Meeting with Minister Davidson and Regional Director Grace McGregor to discuss the Columbia Western Rail Trail between Christina Lake and Castlegar.
Recently, I met with Minister Davidson alongside Regional District of Kootenay Boundary Director Grace McGregor to discuss the section of the Columbia Western Rail Trail between Christina Lake and Castlegar.
Our goal is straightforward. We are working to ensure that decisions about this corridor are made with a clear understanding of its importance to the communities it serves.
One of the challenges we continue to see is that responsibility for this trail spans multiple ministries and agencies. That can make it difficult to move forward with coordinated solutions, even when local needs are well understood.
That is why we are pushing for a more coordinated, cross ministry approach.
Communities along this corridor have been clear. They want to see this trail protected, maintained, and kept accessible. They also want to ensure that any decisions made reflect local input and do not limit future opportunities for recreation, tourism, or economic activity.
This work builds on ongoing advocacy to protect rail corridors across the region, including past discussions around the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. These corridors are long term assets. Once they are lost or restricted, it is extremely difficult to restore their full value.
Getting this right matters.
I will continue working with local leaders, regional districts, and the Province to ensure that the Columbia Western Rail Trail remains a strong and accessible asset for our communities, now and into the future.