The Government of Canada announced a federal investment of $99,907 to support two active transportation projects in B.C.’s Fraser Valley.
The City of Mission will receive funding to complete the planning and design of a key portion of the Experience the Fraser (ETF) Trail. Funding will inform how best to proceed with building a segment of the ETF trail from Duncan/Gill Avenue to Dyke Road, near the Fraser River and future residential growth areas. This project will bring Mission and other partners one step closer to completing the trail, which, in its entirety, will consist of approximately 500 km of pathways, weaving together communities and points of interest in the Fraser Valley with a safe active transportation network.
“Residents of the Fraser Valley walk, bike, drive or use public transportation to get to their destinations and need to get there in a timely and safe way. Our Government is funding these active transportation projects to benefit communities, promote healthier lifestyles and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, all while supporting long-term, sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” said Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada.
Funding for the District of Kent will support the development of an active transportation plan that aligns with best practices for transportation infrastructure. The plan will highlight opportunities to build and expand networks of pathways, bike lanes, trails, and pedestrian bridges. In addition, the plan will prioritize the construction of key projects that will create the most benefits for the community and the environment.
“The vision of the Experience the Fraser trail started here in Mission, largely thanks to advocacy by then MLA Randy Hawes. This latest installment in funding will help us create a pedestrian connection between Silverdale and our Waterfront, something that we have dreamed of doing for more than a dozen years,” said Paul Horn, Mayor of the City of Mission.
Funding announced today supports Canada’s National Active Transportation Strategy by supporting active transportation planning and stakeholder engagement activities that will help expand networks of pathways, bike lanes, trails and pedestrian bridges.
By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, increasing the resiliency of our communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.
Featured image: The City of Mission received federal funds to plan and develop a portion of the ‘Experience the Fraser’ trail from the waterfront to Silverdale.
