trails

UPDATE: This item was removed from the council agenda on Tuesday, and it’s believed the plan will be ready to present to council sometime this Spring.  The city confirms public consultation will be a large part of the planning process.

Original story

Imagine being able to get to anywhere you needed to be in Chilliwack without having to use a car. It might take longer to get there, but it would be healthier and a whole lot more scenic. Council will be taking a look at the city’s massive Trail Network Plan later today, a plan to connect almost 100kms of existing and proposed trails. Councillor Sam Waddington says there are some fantastic trails already in place…now they need to join them.

“Trail connectivity is the key…you don’t want to have to get half way to your destination on beautiful trails and then bump up onto a road system with no separated bike shoulder and try to ply your way for the rest of the trip.”

He says alternate transport is a huge piece of modern municipal planning.  He says vehicles will always be an important piece, but using a bike, or your own legs to get around would be a desirable option for a lot of people, and they want to make it safe.

Work will be ongoing for the next several years….it’s part of the city’s overall Greenspace Plan. Waddington says more information will be available in the coming weeks and months as the city rolls out its new Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee.