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Highway 1 pedestrian/cycling overpass receives $1 million

Funding for Abbotsford project to come from the province's BikeBC program
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A map from the City of Abbotsford shows the locations of two proposed additions to the city's cycling and walking trails.

The dream of a Highway 1 overpass for cyclists and pedestrians is closer to reality after the provincial government recently announced that the city will receive $1 million toward the project.

But there is no sign that the province will fund the entire cost of the $5.75 million proposed project, as hoped by the city.

The money announced comes via the province’s BikeBC program, through which $6 million for cycling infrastructure projects will be distributed this year.

City council voted in March to seek provincial funding for both a cycling/pedestrian Highway 1 overpass and a Salton Road bike path separated from traffic. The cost of the overpass alone was estimated at $4.9 million.

In applying for the funds, the city said the project would augment its UDistrict Neighbourhood Plan and create a better link between the area and the rest of Abbotsford.

The funding will come to council at a meeting at the end of August.

If the city plans to proceed with the project and contribute money, council will have to approve such spending.

The ministry committed to $18 million over three years to cost-share with municipalities on projects such as bike trails, pedestrian bridges, multi-use paths and shoulder bikeways.