Hello Neighbours,

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The City of West Kelowna staff has released its final draft of the Transportation Master Plan 2024. Residents have been given an opportunity to review, comment and ask questions regarding the TMP before it goes to council for final reading and approval in mid-October.

I am extremely concerned with Section 3.2 of the TMP - Walking and Cycling Projects.

In response to these concerns, I will be sharing the following letter with council and staff, as well as our neighbourhood residents... 

West Kelowna’s natural beauty, great climate, and nearby attractions make walking and cycling enjoyable ways to get around. Yet a historic lack of investment in active transportation—sidewalks, bike lanes, multi-use pathways, and trails—has left gaps that make it harder for people to choose an active lifestyle.

The City of West Kelowna’s Transportation Master Plan, Section 3.2 – Walking and Cycling - outlines several improvements to active transportation (AT) facilities.  Unfortunately, only two out of 12 projects include multi-use pathways. This imbalance matters.
Examples of TMP Proposed Walking and Cycling Projects
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Sidewalks and bike lanes can help, but they do not offer the same level of safety or comfort as multi-use pathways on busy arterial roads. By physically separating walkers and cyclists from traffic, multi-use pathways protect the most vulnerable road users while easing stress for drivers. Without a stronger commitment to building them, the TMP does not adequately safeguard residents or support the active, healthy lifestyles that our community deserves.

Now is the time to close the gaps. By prioritizing multi-use pathways along our busiest corridors, West Kelowna can make walking and cycling safer and more appealing, while also reducing pressure on roads. Improvements such as wider sidewalks, safer crosswalks, better lighting, and traffic calming are important, but they must be paired with pathways that give people of all ages and abilities the confidence to walk or ride without fear of traffic.

The first step should be a continuous network connecting schools, neighbourhood centres, and key destinations. From there, the system can grow to link homes, services, and major hubs so residents can move comfortably throughout the community. With stronger investment in multi-use pathways, we can transform West Kelowna into a city where safety, health, and quality of life are at the heart of every trip.

Residents are encouraged to visit www.ourwk.ca/tmp, review Section 3 of the Transportation Master Plan, and provide feedback or questions. Your voice matters in shaping a safer and more connected future for West Kelowna.

 

​Kind regards,
Tom Groat, president
(780)871-4036

www.shannonlake.org