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Chilco Park users set to take a hike

View Royal tentatively places trails project in 2014 work schedule

View Royal is hoping to move forward with trail-building in Chilco Park this year.

The plan to create trails in the Chilco Road area has been in the works since 2011, when the town received input at an open house and developed a plan for the area. Work intended for 2013 was put off for a year due to escalating costs to the Craigflower Bridge replacement and other capital projects.

The move to include the trails work for 2014 was spurred by a $50,000 commitment to the project from Limona Construction, developer of The Summit at Thetis on Chilco Road. The company previously contributed $50,000 for the trails during an earlier phase of the residential development.

The trails will connect to a lookout point near Mill Hill Park and will be made out of granular surfaces.

A steep grade change means some steps will be needed.

“The residents will be able to do walking loops through their neighbourhood,” said Coun. David Screech, chair of the parks, recreation and environment committee.

“A few years ago there was a committee involved in it who traipsed all over up there and we came up with this plan. It’s a great thing if we can get it going, finally.”

The plan calls for installation in three zones, with trails constructed in the areas of Haagensen Court, Bamford Court, Chilco Road and a fire lane on the View Royal/Langford border. The design of the trails in meant to link neighbourhoods and future stages will also connect to Kaleigh Lane.

The green light for the project hinges upon council’s approval of the town’s 2014 budget and receipt of the money from Limona.

kwells@goldstreamgazette.com