Construction of a 75-metre soft-surface trail extension in Bear James Park is set to go next week.

The trail extension will connect to the existing trail network and provide access for park maintenance, environmental stewardship, infrastructure replacement and emergency response activities.

The project will support future replacement of the downstream pedestrian bridge, improve access for maintenance and emergency response, and help facilitate ongoing enhancement and maintenance work in the Jack Hames Side Channel.

The City says it has worked with its environmental consultant, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and K’ómoks First Nation to ensure environmental considerations are incorporated into project planning.

Originally excavated by Fisheries and Oceans Canada in 1984 to improve fish habitat and production, the Jack Hames Side Channel has been maintained through a long-standing partnership between the City and DFO.

For more than 40 years, the organizations have worked on habitat stewardship, restoration and infrastructure maintenance. Construction is set to begin on Monday and go through Wednesday.

Learn more about the project at City of Courtenay.