There can be no arguing that the Rails to Trails is an important and very well-used asset for the City of Kimberley. The trail connecting Kimberley and Cranbrook along the former CPR line sees a constant parade of walkers, runners and bikers taking advantage of the paved surface and great scenery.
Like any other asset it requires maintenance. Kimberley City Council received a NorthStar Rails to Trails 2014 Monitoring and Inspection Report this week, which details areas where erosion may be a problem and preventative maintenance is required.
While there is nothing immediately urgent, Coun. Darryl Oakley pointed out that there are some areas of risk that might impact the budget in the coming year.
The City does have $15,000 set aside in reserve for trail maintenance, said Coun. Kent Goodwin, but they are waiting on the City of Cranbrook.
“We put $15,000 in reserve for but are waiting for when Cranbrook is willing to come to the table with their $15,000 for maintenance issues,” Goodwin said. “As far as I know, the money is just sitting there, waiting.”