The Columbia River Skywalk project in the City of Trail has received the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) 2018 Parks Excellence Award.

The award exemplifies the Skywalk’s contribution to Trail’s high quality of recreation, parks and physical activity in the community, and its excellence in unique design for walkability and community connectedness. The award was presented to Trisha Davison, the Director of Trail Parks and Recreation, at a special ceremony at the BCRPA Provincial Symposium.

“Trail is very honoured to receive this award and we extend our deepest gratitude to the BCRPA,” said Mayor Mike Martin. “The Skywalk project was a vision of many with a long history. To see it finally come to fruition in 2016 was a momentous occasion for Trail and our neighbouring communities. The bridge has become a welcoming landmark structure in our region that represents dedication, collaboration and the direction of our future.”

The Columbia River Skywalk connects the communities of East and West Trail and is one of the longest suspension bridges of its kind in North America at 1000 feet landing to landing. The 100 per cent accessible 12-foot walkway, which is flanked by two beautifully landscaped approaches offering benches, information kiosks and viewing points, is a safe and well-lit passageway for pedestrians and commuters on bikes and in wheelchairs, strollers and scooters. The bridge also connects the small community of Trail to the rest of Canada.

The bridge construction took 14 months with a total cost of $15.5 million, making it the City of Trail’s largest capital project to date. The bridge officially opened on December 15, 2016.