Metchosin will try to avoid putting the cart before the horse as it makes improvements to Kangaroo Road, including a new roadside horse trail.
“This has been something our parks and trails committee have wanted for a long time,” said Mayor John Ranns. “Kangaroo Rd. is a very windy road, and is quite difficult for pedestrians and equestrians. …Whenever we can make it safer for pedestrians and people using the side of the road, we endeavour to do that.”
Jacobs Brothers Construction is tackling reconstruction work on the road, at the price of just under $1.9 million. The plan is to be finished the work by the end of the year.
The trail is a multi-use one that will follow Kangaroo from Rocky Point to Eales Road. Work will also be done to reconstruct Kangaroo along a stretch from the 800 block to the 900 block.
An arborist will be subcontracted to remove any trees necessary.
Construction of the trail will take place in sections.
What is certain is that until Nov. 30 road excavation will be required, which will result in road repaving and the construction of the trail. Traffic delays can be expected throughout this period.
Gas tax funding will be used to pay for the project. The district had hoped to get a grant for the project, and had applied for them in the past, but engineers feel the project can’t wait any longer.