Rail Trail from Top Bridge Crossing to Despard Ave in Parksville
The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) is planning a new regional trail along the Island Rail Corridor between Top Bridge Crossing and Despard Avenue in Parksville. The trail will connect Top Bridge Regional Trail to the Coombs to Parksville Rail Trail, with the goal of improving active transportation options, increasing recreational opportunities and creating better connections between existing trails.
About the Project
The project includes:
- Upgrading approximately 3.7 kilometres of an existing water main access road between Alberni Highway and the Englishman River. This access road is not currently designated as a public trail.
- Building approximately 0.75 kilometres of new trail to connect the Allsbrook Road Top Bridge parking lot to the railway corridor.
- Building approximately 0.65 kilometres of new trail to connect Despard Avenue to the railway corridor along Alberni Highway.
The project will complete a continuous 16-kilometre trail route connecting Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park to Coombs.
Before proceeding, the project will require approvals and agreements with the Island Corridor Foundation, the City of Parksville, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit and BC Hydro.
Engagement
The RDN has sought community feedback to help identify:
- Safety concerns
- Connectivity gaps
- Accessibility barriers
- Important trail design considerations
What Happens Next?
Feedback received through the survey and open house is being reviewed and summarized to help guide the trail design. A What We Heard Engagement Summary will be posted on this page and registered participants will be notified by email. The final trail design will be posted on this page once completed.
Stay Informed
- Visit the What's New tab for project updates
- Sign up with your email using the subscribe button to receive email updates as the project moves forward
- Check out the FAQs to learn more
- Ask us a question or leave a comment using the Q&A tab below
- Review Project Documents:
- Proposed Trail Overview Map
- Open House display boards and table maps
