Courtenay Council has given the green light to a new Lake Trail multi-use path this summer. The project aims to make west Courtenay safer for students and residents. Mayor Bob Wells says public input was key. He thanks families and community members for speaking up.
The path will link Lake Trail Community School with Arden Elementary School. It will run along the north side of Lake Trail Road. A 620-metre gravel trail will form Phase 1. Council plans to tender this phase in the coming weeks. Construction should start this fall.
Improved bike lanes will also be added. These lanes will extend from Arden Road to Webb Road. They will sit on the same side of Lake Trail Road as the new trail. This design keeps walkers and cyclists separate from vehicle traffic. It will reduce risk for all users.
Drainage work will go in beside the pedestrian trail. This will help prevent pooling and erosion. Crews will install culverts and ditches for better water flow. These upgrades will protect the path and keep it clear year-round.
A proposed Phase 2 will follow later. That phase needs environmental permits first. It could extend the path farther west. Council hopes to build it once approvals arrive. Local advocates are already planning route details.
The idea began with the Arden Elementary Green Team. Students asked for safer ways to walk or ride. Community advocates joined them. They met with councilors and city staff. Their push made the project a priority.
Funding comes from two sources. The Comox Valley Regional District Area C is chipping in. The Province of British Columbia also helps through its Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants Program. Together, they cover most of the cost.
Mayor Wells says the path supports active transportation goals. He adds it will help reduce car trips. Families may choose to walk or cycle to school. That could cut traffic in the morning rush. It also promotes health and a cleaner environment.
City staff will monitor the project closely. They will share updates on timing and detours. Signs will guide drivers and cyclists during construction. Residents along Lake Trail Road may see crews at work starting this fall.
Once complete, the Lake Trail multi-use path will set a model for future routes. Council hopes to roll out similar paths in other parts of Courtenay. The goal is to build a network of safe, connected links for walking and biking.
Community members can join a public webinar next month. Staff will explain the Phase 1 design and answer questions. Notices will go out by email and social media. Everyone is welcome to attend.
This project shows what public input can achieve. When families speak up, change follows. The new Lake Trail multi-use path will stand as proof of that effort. It will help students, parents, and neighbors travel safely for years to come.
