By Erin Knutson

The District of Invermere offered its support with a unanimous vote by council to approve a grant application for a multi-use pathway project to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure’s BC Active Transportation Infrastructure Grant Program at its regular council meeting Sept. 14.

“A total of $752,900 for 550m of multi-use pathway re-development on 13th Avenue between Laird Elementary School Parking lot and Gierlich Road would be allowed for the project,” said a district staff report.

If the application is successful, the multi-use pathway project will rely on contributions by council for an amount up to $252,900.

The amount will be provided for in the 2021-2023 budget.

According to staff and council, overall project reviews have been positive, with few negative comments.

“Supporting the application requires a commitment to manage the grant and a financial commitment of $252,900 from the district to achieve the $500,000 grant contribution maximum, which would complete the identified pathway project,” said the report.

The project also conforms with the Official Community Plan, which emphasizes the importance of multi-modal travel and the need for good bicycle routes and a network of trails.

Funds provided by the application, if approved, will go toward supporting existing construction slated for Phase 1 of the infrastructure project.

“Phase 2, which is intended to complete the north portion of the 13th Avenue infrastructure upgrades (i.e., 15th Street north to Laird Elementary School Parking lot), will be considered by council as part of the formal 2022 budget proposal and review,” said the report.

Lead image: 13th Avenue between JA Laird Elementary School toward Gierlich Road. e-KNOW file photo

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