By Erin Knutson

The City of Fernie realigned with its Official Community Plan (OCP) by applying to the BC Active Transportation Grant Program for the New Sidewalks Infrastructure Program.

A presentation to mayor and council by Project Engineer Joanna Line at the October 24 regular council meeting touted the benefits to the community should grant money result from the application.

“This will be the first attempt to obtain a grant to close the gaps identified in the Active Transportation Master Plan (ATMP),” she said.

Reinforcing the needs of community members who would benefit from safe access by improving the functionality of the existing infrastructure was top of Line’s list of reasons to onboard the city with this decision.

“Adding new sidewalks to the existing pedestrian network is not the most exciting project. However, for the elderly, children, childcare providers, and those with significant mobility needs, having a continuous network of safe pedestrian facilities is essential to remove barriers to access basic necessities and provide a more inclusive community,” said Line.

Should funding be secured, capital from the municipal Gas Tax Reserve would make up the deficit of the project to the amount of $276,205, with $500,000 allotted from the grant to complete the upgrades stipulated in the contract.

While addressing needs outlined in studies procured by city staff on the pedestrian network, the move will help Fernie meet the provincial and federal greenhouse gas reduction initiatives and wellness goals, according to Line’s report.

Mayor and council voted unanimously to apply for the grant after reviewing Line’s suggestions and an overview of the project to improve the pedestrian infrastructure through repairs and upgrades to existing sidewalks.

“I envision that over time all streets, redone, will adhere to this profile,” said Mayor Nic Milligan.

e-KNOW file photo

e-KNOW

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