The City of Williams Lake announced today (Wednesday) a portion of the River Valley Trail will reopen to the Public on May first.
The reopening comes close to 3 years after catastrophic flooding forced its closure due to public safety concerns while repair and remediation work took place.
Natural areas and habitats, trails, roadways, and City infrastructure were destroyed totaling multiple millions of dollars in damage.
“Council and staff are really excited to be able to open up the River Valley, at least partially, for the section between Comer Street and the Tolko works yard. I think that the community has been waiting for this for a long time to be able to go down there and enjoy the River Valley,” Gary Muraca, Chief Administrative Officer, said.
Phase two of the reopening is targeted for June of 2023, expanding the open section of the road further north toward the Fraser River pending the completion of work in that section.
The City said the Williams Lake River Valley Trail reopening will take place in phases as work continues in closed areas that include the completion of remaining bridges and the use of heavy equipment.
“The public should also be aware there may be isolated active worksites existing within the opened areas and we ask users of the road to please use caution,” Muraca said.
The City asks the public to refer to map signage that will be posted at the Comer Street entrance for important safety information.