Award of Excellence handed out to Trail’s Columbia River Skywalk

The BCRPA Provincial Awards showcase the innovative work being done throughout the province.

The Columbia River Skywalk in Trail. — Photo courtesy City of Trail

The City of Trail has won a prestigious award for their new Columbia River Skywalk. Each year Provincial Awards of Excellence for innovation in the recreation, parks, and culture sector are presented by the BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA).  The new Skywalk cost $15.5 million to construct and install—it officially opened at the end of 2016.  

One individual and six communities have won Provincial Awards of Excellence from the BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) in recognition of their outstanding efforts and innovation in the recreation, parks and culture sector. The City of Trail was one of the six winners for the newly constructed Columbia River Skywalk.

Parks Excellence Award: City of Trail for the Columbia River Skywalk — www.bcrpa.bc.ca/membership/provincial-awards

The Columbia River Skywalk project specifically addressed issues related to Trail's walkability and connectivity as the West and East communities are separated by the mighty Columbia River. Prior to this project, the only other means to cross the river was via the main traffic bridge's walkway, which was noted as feeling unsafe by pedestrians. The connection to other urban trail systems, the installation of onramps, and the grade and width of the bridge have ensured 100% accessibility to users of all abilities.

The BCRPA Provincial Awards showcase the innovative work being done throughout the province.

“These award recipients each reflect a distinct level of leadership and dedication to enhancing the quality of life of their communities, often through collaborative, innovative design and access to the natural world,” said Rebecca Tunnacliffe, BCRPA Chief Executive Officer. “Each project has once again raised the bar to a new standard of excellence for how to approach greater inclusion, sustainability and support active, healthy lifestyles for all British Columbians.”

The Awards of Excellence are presented annually at BCRPA’s Symposium. The conference brings together members of the recreation, parks, physical activity and culture sector from around BC, including elected officials, volunteers, members of the business community and others.

This year’s event was held in Vancouver. The BCRPA Provincial Awards celebrate recreation as an essential social service which builds healthy individuals, communities and environments.

The Association supports communities in their efforts to enhance quality of life through leadership and advocacy in physical activity and healthy living initiatives, grants and professional development. The annual awards recognize excellence in the field of recreation as well as exceptional efforts to enhance recreation facilities, programs and services.