Public ownership of a former rail corridor isn’t guaranteed, but funding may keep the vision on track.
The provincial government is providing $2.17 million so the North Okanagan and Columbia-Shuswap regional districts can possibly buy the old Canadian Pacific line from Spallumcheen to Sicamous.
“When you look at opportunities for further tourism, no other announcement will have the impact,” said Greg Kyllo, Shuswap MLA.
The process to potentially buy the 48-kilometre corridor began two years ago.
“We are getting close,” said David Sewell, Regional District of North Okanagan chief administrative officer.
The timeline for negotiations isn’t known, and the participants aren’t providing details on the purchase price.
“We’ve largely negotiated the price, but until you have a deal, everything is up in the air,” said Sewell.
The provincial government’s contribution is contingent upon the completion of the purchase agreement.
The Splatsin have been part of the process and the First Nation already owns seven kilometres of the former rail land.
“Chief Christian has really been a driving force behind this,” said Kyllo.
Chief Wayne Christian is confident that community ownership of the corridor will create opportunities.
“The Splatsin welcome this commitment by the government of B.C. in this investment founded on collaboration and partnership between the Splatsin, Columbia Shuswap Regional District and the Regional District of North Okanagan to create a world class trail venue that will have a lasting legacy for the region,” he said.
Columbia-Shuswap Regional District officials are also hoping for a successful conclusion to negotiations with CP.
“The acquisition of the abandoned rail corridor represents an enormous opportunity and creates a lasting legacy for many communities,” said Rhona Martin, CSRD chairperson.
“The benefits revolve around the long-term tourism and transportation potential of the corridor, as well as the economic benefits of a trail network to the people and businesses of the North Okanagan-Shuswap.”
Kyllo, a Sicamous resident, anticipates a trail network could be popular internationally.
“Around Mara and Rosemond lakes and down to Armstrong, it’s beautiful,” he said.
While supportive of recreational activities, Mayor Greg McCune hopes some of the rail line will be used to ease the traffic congestion in Enderby.
“The highway is jam-packed. It (acquisition) will be a win-win for the region,” said McCune.
Canadian Pacific abandoned the rail line in 2009.