The Okanagan Rail Trail had its grand opening at the Oyama Boat Launch in Lake Country Thursday afternoon.
The 49.5-kilometer trail, which extends from Coldstream to downtown Kelowna, has been in the works for years, with a combination of government grants and public funding allowing it to reach its fundraising goal of nearly $8 million.
Mayor Colin Basran was on hand at Thursday's ribbon cutting ceremony, and stressed the importance of investing in active transportation in the Okanagan.
"This trail fundamentally changes how we get around this valley," says Basran. "It moves people and connects communities, but it also makes sure that we are living a healthy lifestyle. It protects the environment, and it's an economic and cultural driver, but more importantly it is a legacy that will be enjoyed by people of this valley for generations."
Ravi Kahlon, Parliamentary Secretary for Sport and Multiculturalism, says collaboration was key in developing the trail.
"You've got every level of government, First Nations communities, the private sector, and residents all coming together with one initiative," says Kahlon. "That does not happen very often, but it's happening here and we should all celebrate it."
Some remaining parts of the trail between the Kelowna International Airport and Lake Country, as well as a section between Gordon and Ellis in Kelowna, will need further review and approval before construction can begin. There's currently no concrete timeline for that completion.