New Trails Open at Derby Reach and Brae Island Regional Parks

December 22, 2009

Enjoying a respite from chilly winter weather on Thursday, Chair Gayle Martin, Metro Vancouver Parks Committee was joined by the Honourable Mark Warawa, Member of Parliament for Langley; Brian Wallner, Board, Pacific Parklands Foundation; and Sharon Meneely, Chair, Derby Reach/Brae Island Parks Association for the cutting of ribbon and first official trek down the new Tavistock Loop Trail at Brae Island Regional Park.


Two new trails are open to the public at Fort Langley.

The universally accessible upgrade of the Edge Farm Trail/Trans Canada Trail at Derby Reach Regional Park; and the new Tavistock Loop Trail at Brae Island Regional Park are now officially open.

“The outcome of these projects is an inspiring one,” said Gayle Martin, Metro Vancouver Parks Committee Chair.

“Both trails were built to meet universally accessible standards, and both came to fruition thanks to the tremendous support and fundraising efforts of the Derby Reach/Brae Island Parks Association and the Pacific Parklands Foundation, who raised over $90,000 to complete the projects.”

The opening of the new section of upgraded trail at Derby Reach was a significant milestone, completing a universally accessible 2.3 km route from the Heritage Area to Edgewater Bar. The Edge Farm Trail will also connect with new sections of the Trans Canada Trail, being constructed through an exciting and unique project with the Province of BC, Metro Vancouver, and the Fraser Valley Regional District called ‘Experience the Fraser’.

“Working with the Township of Langley and Trails BC, we are aiming to connect the trail to the Golden Ears Bridge, and to make the entire route accessible,” said Martin.

The opening of the new Tavistock Loop Trail at Brae Island Regional Park was also a major milestone, adding to the Fort Camping experience and completing the park’s trail system. The Derby Reach/Brae Island Parks Association jumped right in to support this project, and again, was enthusiastically supported by the Pacific Parklands Foundation who pledged $50,000 and used these funds to leverage funds with the federal Western Economic Diversification Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program, to receive a grant of $26,000 to compete the trail.

“I am always so impressed with what can be accomplished when partners work together,” said Martin.

“I can’t begin to tell you how appreciative we are in Metro Vancouver for these contributions, which help to build our system of regional parks, enrich our communities, and inspire a greater appreciation for our natural world.”