The design for the downtown riverfront area as part of the Kicking Horse River Dike Improvement Project has been completed and construction for phase two is set to begin in early August.

“In addition to protecting Golden from the risks of river flooding, this project will transform the riverfront space between our downtown core and the Kicking Horse River, making it a place where residents will come to work, play and connect,” said Mayor of Golden Ron Oszust.

The Kicking Horse River Dike Improvement Project represents the largest infrastructure grant the Town of Golden has ever received at $5.87 million.

The Town of Golden conducted both in-person and online public engagement opportunities to residents in September 2019, receiving feedback from over 200 people. Overall, public engagement participants described their vision for the area as a place to walk along the river, visit and shop at local businesses, connect with the community and come to enjoy the space and surrounding natural environment.

The overall design by Urban Systems includes the flood protection wall, the addition of seating areas, lighting, vegetation and landscape elements, as well as the relocation of garbage bins.

“The Kicking Horse River Dike project will improve the waterfront by controlling flood risks and making the area more sustainable, which are critical as we address the effects of climate change,” said the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities.

TYBO Contracting Ltd. will kick off construction in early August with riprap work and the construction of the flood protection wall. Work will take place six days a week from August to November with TYBO returning in spring 2021 to complete the landscaping and beautification elements of the project. The project is set to be completed by July 2021.