Construction to begin on new access road at Crawford Creek Regional Park
November 10, 2020
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is set to begin construction on a new vehicle access road at Crawford Creek Regional Park. The new road will be constructed where the former airstrip is located. Minor disruptions to park users may occur for the duration of this project. Opening of the access road is planned for spring 2021.
“Past flooding events on Crawford Creek led to high water levels that caused serious damage and significantly eroded the existing access road to the park,” said Garry Jackman, RDCK Electoral Area A Director. “The RDCK has committed to constructing a suitable access road in order to ensure there will be continued access to the park for all users.”
Following environmental assessment recommendations and the review of recent floodplain mapping it was determined the low lying route of the existing road is not suitable for reconstruction. The new access road will be approximately 800 meters long and will follow the alignment of the former airstrip. The road will stop at the edge of crown land where there will be a small parking area. Vehicle access beyond this point over crown land can be considered as part of the future management planning.
“The access road will be constructed on higher ground,” said Cary Gaynor, Regional Parks Manager. “Once this project is complete there will be public engagement to inform a future park management plan that provides strategic direction for how Crawford Creek Regional Park is managed in the long term.”
The existing access road to the park has been closed since May 29, 2020 when flooding of Crawford Creek compromised the road. The new road will allow for improved pedestrian access in addition to managing the flow of vehicles in and out of the park. At a later date, the repurposing of the old access road to a non-motorized trail may be considered.
Residents are also encouraged to visit www.rdck.ca/parks to review the biophysical assessment report that was completed for the park. This report provides a baseline of information that can be used to aid in the production of a future park management plan and to better manage projects in the park in a more sustainable manner.
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The content on this page was last updated November 10 2020 at 1:41 AM