As autumn arrives on southern Vancouver Island, construction workers on the Kinsol Trestle restoration project are making the best of remaining mild weather to advance their labours.
The bridge spanning the Koksilah River, completed in 1920 and abandoned in 1980, was once—at 614 feet long and 145 feet high—the largest timber railway trestle in the Commonwealth. Part of the “Galloping Goose” line owned by Canadian National Railways, it once carried giant, old growth timber from Nootka sound to Victoria. Word that the historic span was to be demolished due to its deteriorating condition attracted a community group dedicated to its preservation.
The $7.5 million rehabilitation project, begun on July 6, will replace unsound timbers and construct a new walkway for pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmW0hTuymRY[/youtube]Â A-News Report
Cyclists are understandably eager to ride over the trestle, as part of the Cowichan Valley Trail and greater Trans Canada Trail.
The finished trail, off-limits to motorized traffic, promises to eclipse the Kettle Valley Railway Trail (overrun by trail-eating ATVs) as British Columbia’s offroad cycle touring destination of choice.
Completion is expected by summer 2011.
Kinsol.ca | Cowichan Valley Trail | Trans Canada Trail
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What a great thing you are doing…..I love it..
Many people are looking forward to completion. This 120 km section will link the Galloping Goose Trail, starting in Victoria, with the Trans Canada Trail up to Nanaimo.
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