Tapping into the full potential of the Okanagan Rail Trail could possibly lead to Coldstream purchasing more land.
The district’s tourism committee has recommended that council explore opportunities to secure the Dutch’s Campground property on Kalamalka Road.
“That’s just the committee’s recommendation and the issue would have to go before council for consideration,” said Coun. Glen Taylor, who sits on the tourism committee.
Taylor was reluctant to discuss the committee’s recommendation too much as potential land purchases are generally in-camera or confidential.
However, he says the committee is looking at ways of supporting tourism in the future.
“it could tie into the rail trail,” he said.
Late last year, the municipality purchased two acres between Dutch’s Campground and the Vernon boundary for $550,000.
The goal is to use that portion of land for rail trail amenities, and the tourism committee is recommending some amenities for 2017, including portable washrooms and temporary parking.
The tourism committee’s recommendations will be discussed further by council March 6.
Prior to that meeting, staff is being asked to provide a parking inventory for the area near the rail trail.
“There are lots of streets above Westkal Road that can be parked on and how will we deal with that?” said Coun. Doug Dirk.
Among the suggestions is using the Okanagan College parking lot on weekends.
However, district staff suggest the college parking lot may not be viable given the elevation cyclists would have to climb up College Way.
“The majority of users will stick close to the rail trail,” said Michael Baker, director of infrastructure services.