Active transportation plan adopted

A process that started over a year ago came to a conclusion last week at City Council, with the adoption of Merritt’s new Active Transportation Plan.

The plan was funded 50-50 through a provincial grant and City dollars, totaling $50,000.

“The goal is to provide transportation options that are more affordable, better for human health and the environment, while reducing traffic congestion,” said Planning Manager Don McArthur.

Along with staff in-house, the project was completely with the assistance of a consultation group, Urban Systems.

In total, the plan lists 120 implementation action items.

“Staff have already begun working toward accomplishing some of these tasks, with grant applications submitted for the West Merritt Active Transportation Path, and a Diamond Vale Neighbourhood Bikeway currently being designed,” added McArthur.

The cost of implementing the entire plan is approximately $33 million, however grant funding will be used to offset the costs. Staff expect to implement the plan over the next decade.

The plan can be seen in full at – https://www.merritt.ca/atp/