7. If the railway is no longer feasible, Then we have a decision to make

8. An unfortunate situation…. …an incredible opportunity Public use or Private Land

9. The decision is ours.

10. What would you like?

11. 49.9 km in length max. grade 1.3% 24 km of waterfront on 3 lakes Connects 6 communities Provide safe access to UBCO 23 parks within 500m 22 points of interest within 500m

12. Who would use the trail? Residence of the Okanagan - recreational - commuting - lake access Existing visitors who would extend their stay. New visitors attracted to the Okanagan by the trail. Estimated annual use by year 5 is 589,975* * Okanagan Rail Trail Impact Assessment Report

13. Transportation and Public Safety An efficient transportation corridor linking: Communities Places of work and study Parks and areas of recreation Cultural amenities Estimated 25,450 annual commuter trips A safe non-motorized transportation option In N. America we are 8 times more likely to be injured in a collision than cyclist in Europe Separated multi-use pathways provide safer active transportation routes away from congested roadways.

14. Health Benefits Communities that encourage physical activity by use of linear corridors see benefits in public health and wellness. Research has also identified the importance of being in a natural setting to reduce stress and improve attention, mood and overall wellness. Estimated annual use by local residents: 148,000 walking trips per year 309,095 cycling trips per year

15. Health Benefits The need for a healthy community.

16. Conservation/Environment Benefits A trail will provide needed links between fragmented habitats and help protect Kalamalka, Wood and Duck Lakes. A trail will reduce emissions by providing an alternative transportation option that does not exist today.

17. Economic Benefits A trail will provide an important economic engine for the Okanagan creating an estimated $6.7 to $8.7 million in incremental annual economic activity by year 5*. 107,400 visitor trips per year This incremental annual activity may increase to 10.0 million by year 10. A trail will also help attract entrepreneurs and employees seeking an improved lifestyle. * Okanagan Rail Trail Impact Assessment Report

18. Economic Benefits Overview of Thompson/Okanagan Economy. Thompson / Okanagan Employment Growth by Sector 2006 - 2012

19. Community Identity A trail can become a source of community identity highlighting historic, cultural, recreational and environment resources

20. A key part of a larger opportunity compliment the Kettle Valley Rail Trail key part of a possible rail trail from Sicamous to Osoyoos Allows for a continuous corridor for future methods of transportation

21. Negotiation to Purchase for Operations Dec 3Jun 2 Offer to Governments Federal Provincial TransitMunicipal 120 day maximum Offer for Sale to Public What is the process of abandonment? Letter of Intent to Operate Railway (30 day periods maximum for each) Oct 3

22. What Can We Do? Go to www.okanaganrailtrail.ca to show your support Have your friends and family go to the website If you own a business send your logo and statement to okrailtrail@gmail.com

23. The decision is ours Our future is in our hands. We can transform this wonderful linear property into a lasting legacy that will provide benefits for generations or We can allow this transportation corridor and last natural lakefront access to be sold off for private use. www.okanaganrailtrail.ca