On October 16, 2008 the Island Coastal Economic Trust announced over $1.7 million in funding for the Cowichan Valley Trail and Kinsol Trestle rehabilitation project. These funds, along with the $1.7 million previously pledged to the Kinsol Trestle project by the BC Ministry of Transportation and the BC government’s LocalMotion funding, make the Kinsol Trestle restoration a reality. In order for the project to be completed, a further $2 million needs to be raised.

 

On June 10, 2009, the Kinsol Trestle Capital Campaign was launched.  Click here to read the news release.

 

On July 6, 2010, construction on the Kinsol Trestle officially began.  Click here to watch a video clip of the event.  While construction has already begun, fundraising efforts continue. Visit www.kinsol.ca to donate today.

 

Rehabilitation of the Kinsol Trestle will create an uninterrupted trail experience from Victoria to Nanaimo, as well as creating a world-class outdoor recreation experience for local communities along the route, generating positive economic benefits for the Cowichan Region. Increased tourism along the trail – by tourists from around the world - will undoubtedly provide spin-off opportunities to campgrounds, guided tours, Bed & Breakfasts, wine tours, theatres, recreational facilities, among others. Opportunities such as this only help diversify our local economy which benefits all of us.

 

The historic Kinsol Trestle, which runs over the Koksilah River Canyon, is the only remaining trestle on the former CNR right of way which requires rehabilitation for trail use as part of the Cowichan Valley Trail. Original construction of the Kinsol Trestle was completed in 1920, with sections being replaced in the mid 1930s, in 1958 and in 1973.

 

At 125 feet high and 615 feet long, the Kinsol Trestle is the tallest standing wooden railway trestle in Canada, and perhaps throughout the British Commonwealth.

 

In order to raise the additional funds needed to complete the rehabilitation project, the public’s support is required. Visit the Kinsol Trestle Capital Campaign website for more information or to make a donation.

 

Community Futures Cowichan is proud to be a partner in this exciting Community Development initiative.