Kelowna, British Columbia – Today, partners from three levels of government celebrated the new active transportation infrastructure built in Kelowna over the past year. In total, Kelowna’s bike network was expanded by 11 km to a total of 261 km.

"I am proud to be here today celebrating this important community project that promotes a fun and safe pathway for cycling, jogging and walking in Kelowna," said MP Cannan, on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. "Through our Economic Action Plan, our government is supporting communities across the country by creating jobs when they are needed the most and providing important infrastructure."

“This network of pathways and sidewalks will allow greater and safer access for cyclists and pedestrians, either for commuting, exercise, or just enjoying all Kelowna has to offer,” said Kelowna-Lake Country MLA Norm Letnick.

“Investing in the city’s pathway network infrastructure supports the City’s mandate to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions,” said Her Worship Mayor Sharon Shepherd. “Cycling, walking and rolling are becoming attractive options for residents who are looking to reducing carbon emissions and save money on escalating fuel costs.”

Last year, a total of $14 million was invested in Kelowna’s pathway infrastructure, $11.5 million of which was cost-shared equally between the governments of Canada, British Columbia and the City of Kelowna. The federal contribution comes from the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. Thanks to this funding, construction of pathways was accelerated along Abbott Street, Casorso/Barrera, Cawston Avenue, Gordon Drive, Houghton Road, Lakeshore Road and Parkinson Recreation Park.

The City began construction of the multi-use pathway network in the summer of 2010, much of which is now complete.

As part of the Government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the $4-billion Infrastructure Stimulus Fund is providing funding to over 4,300 infrastructure projects across the country. Since March 2009, a total federal investment of over $505.6 million has been committed to well over 400 projects under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund across British Columbia.

Since October 2008, the province of British Columbia has committed over $5.5 billion for accelerated capital projects. The province estimates this will generate more than 35,000 construction jobs over the life of the projects.

For further information on the Government of Canada's infrastructure investments in British Columbia, visit www.creatingjobs.gc.ca.  To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca

Visit kelowna.ca/cityprojects to find out what other pathways are being planned for and constructed.