The open house at Saanich Commonwealth Place on Saturday marks the final period for residents to have their say on the Capital Regional District’s Regional Trails Management Plan.
The 10-year plan will guide decisions on the Galloping Goose, Lochside and E&N Rail Trail–Humpback Connector, as well as other future regional trails. It is open to the public in a draft format until Jan. 31.
Of particular concern for Saanich bike commuters and trail users is the Lochside Trail, which remains unpaved in some sections, and also uses active roads in other sections.
“One of the proposed actions is to pave the remaining sections of Lochside starting at the south end and working north,” said Carolyn Stewart, CRD park and trail planner.
Though many want the unpaved sections paved, some want it to stay gravel.
“We’ve looked at a lot of comments, and we’ll hear if people agree, or not,” Stewart said.
The plan was drawn up in 2015 based on a 2014 consultation process that took in more than 2,000 comments and ideas at open houses and online. The website itself garnered more than 29,000 visits.
“A lot of people want the [remaining Lochside sections] moved off road,” Steward added.
The draft Regional Trails Management Plan and comment form are available at www.crd.bc.ca/project/regional-trails-management-plan. Comments will be received until midnight, Jan. 31.
Saturday’s open house is from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Cedar Room at Commonwealth Place, 4636 Elk Lake Dr.
reporter@saanichnews.com