The City of Courtenay is celebrating the completion of Phase 1 of the Lake Trail Multi-Use Path, which improves pedestrian and cyclist safety in west Courtenay.
The new gravel path runs along Lake Trail Road between Arden Elementary and Lake Trail Community School. The project also includes improved bike lanes, drainage upgrades and an enhanced bus stop, making it easier for residents to choose active and sustainable travel options.
“We’ve heard for years that people wanted safer ways to walk and bike between Arden Elementary and Lake Trail schools. We’re so glad to see this step forward,” said Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells. “This pathway makes the route safer and supports healthier, more sustainable ways to get around. It’s a great example of how community input and local partnerships make a lasting difference.”
The project was funded through the Province of British Columbia’s Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants Program, with additional support from the Comox Valley Regional District’s Electoral Area C, which borders the area.
“This facility connects the community and gives people options to walk and bike instead of drive,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “This means that students who cycle or walk to school today have more affordable, cleaner transportation options in the future.”
“This long-awaited initiative was first suggested by the Arden Road Residents Association many years ago, and it’s great to see it coming to fruition,” said Comox Valley Regional District’s Electoral Area C Director Edwin Grieve. “I would like to thank the Ministry of Transportation and Transit, the City of Courtenay and the Comox Valley Regional District for all working together to make it a reality.”
Construction began in September and was completed in November 2025. Phase 2 of the project, which would extend the gravel path from Arden Road to Arden Elementary, is pending environmental permit approvals.
To learn more, visit www.courtenay.ca/lake-trail-mup.
Fast facts
Phase 1 of the Lake Trail Multi-use Path includes:
- 620 metres of new gravel trail on the north side of Lake Trail Road, between Lake Trail Community School and Arden Road
- Improved bike lanes on the north side of Lake Trail Road from Arden Road to Webb Road
- Upgraded bus stop
- Drainage improvements adjacent to the pedestrian path between Arden Road and Lake Trail Community School