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Official ribbon cutting held for Jaffray Trail
A new multi-use non-motorized trail in Jaffray has been officially opened following a community celebration and ribbon cutting Tuesday night.
“It was a wonderful night to be able to celebrate the people, passion and commitment that led us to this day,” said Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Electoral Area B Director Stan Doehle.
“This trail has been over seven years in the making and would not have been possible without the dedication and support of the South Country Trails and Recreation Association, Ministry of Transportation and Transit, McElhanney Engineering, Terus Construction, Columbia Basin Trust, private property owners, RDEK staff and local businesses.”
The idea for the trail was born after a private property owner saw a mother pushing a stroller on the shoulder of the busy highway through Jaffray on her way to get her mail.
“As transport trucks passed right by her, he realized a safer option was needed. He approached our committee and contributed a portion of his property for the right of way access. Our committee then got to work with fundraising and grant applications and the rest, as they say, is history. It is so rewarding to have this safe, beautiful new asset in our community for all to enjoy,” explained South Country Trails and Recreation Association Chair, Anne Anderson.
The Jaffray Trail runs along Highway 3/93 from Rosen Lake Road to Shelborne Road and connects on to the West Jaffray Trails. It officially became an RDEK Electoral Area B Park in July and is maintained by seasonal staff April through October with support from a contractor for snow removal in the winter.
Approximately 50 people were on hand for the official ribbon cutting Tuesday night, with many riding their bikes on the trail to the event.
Lead image: Members of the South Country Trails and Recreation Association with Electoral Area B Director Stan Doehle (centre) and RDEK General Manager of Operations Jamie Davies (far right) cut the ribbon to celebrate the official opening of the Jaffray Trail. RDEK photo
