Sicamous to Armstrong rail trial planning continues despite missing out on major grant money

The Sicamous to Armstrong rail trail is short $13 million in construction funds after failing to secure an infrastructure grant.

The 50 kilometre trail is jointly owned by First Nations and local governments who are busy developing a plan for the project thanks to a $500,000 provincial grant and $300,000 from local governments.

“Assembling funds for capital development of the rail trail now becomes a top priority,” states a media release from The Shuswap Trail Alliance.

“The governance advisory committee was disappointed to learn that the federal/provincial government infrastructure grant application was not selected due to over-subscription to the program. But follow-up is underway to reapply and explore additional sources of provincial and federal funding."

The news release highlights the fact that assessments have been conducted by Splatsin leadership for both archaeological and cultural heritage values and planning work has focused on geotechnical, environmental, agricultural, storm water, erosion control, steep slope, and structural bridge assessments by local experts.

The trail is closed to the public but planners are still driving on it as they continue their work.

Once COVID-19 measures allow, in-person consultations and public meetings will resume.

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