
The Thompson-Nicola Regional District Board of Directors has officially adopted its first-ever Parks and Trails Strategic Plan, a landmark blueprint aimed at guiding the management, development, and operation of parks and trails across the region over the next 10 years.
“This has been a big project,” said Jamie Viera, Thompson-Nicola Regional District’s General Manager of Operations, during a presentation to the Board. “We’ve come a long way, and we’re excited to present this final strategy.”
Initiated in early 2024 with regional funding and supported by a consultant, the planning process involved a five-phase approach spanning over a year. It featured extensive public engagement, including two rounds of consultations with local residents, stakeholders, First Nations communities, and outdoor recreation groups. The Parks and Trails Strategic Plan Development Committee — made up of Board Directors — played an integral role, meeting regularly to review and refine the strategy.
At its core, the plan outlines 23 recommendations organized under six strategic goals designed to:
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Foster government-to-government relationships with Indigenous communities
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Support local outdoor recreation organizations
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Improve collaboration with nonprofits and other government levels
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Establish sustainable management and maintenance tools
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Enhance park experiences for all visitors
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Increase the supply of parks and trails throughout the region
“This plan will guide the integrated delivery of parks and trails services across the TNRD,” Viera explained. “It creates a framework for the future — a philosophy and policy guide — rather than prescribing specific improvements to individual parks right away.”
Sherri Madden, Community Services Coordinator who led the project for the past 18 months, emphasized the importance of collaboration. “Our diverse landscapes and abundant natural areas are what make the Thompson-Nicola region so special for locals and visitors,” Madden said. “We’ve heard from people that they want a larger, better-connected parks and trails network that respects the environment and supports local tourism.”
Board members voiced strong support for the plan during the July 17 meeting.
Director Blackwell applauded the “easy wins” approach outlined for implementation, highlighting the importance of tangible progress in the short term.
Director Tsao praised the district’s proactive stance: “I’ve seen facilities overwhelmed elsewhere. This strategic thinking puts us ahead of the curve in meeting parks and trails needs.”
Director Lepso pointed to the plan’s potential to strengthen ties with Indigenous partners, referencing ongoing collaboration with the Village of Chase and Shuswap Trail lines: “Elders are involved in trail planning, ensuring cultural respect and inclusion. I’m really excited about this project.”
Currently, the TNRD’s parks and trails system includes 12 community parks and trails, two regional parks, a South Thompson River buoy system, and 19 undeveloped park parcels. The new plan seeks to address uneven distribution and expand recreational opportunities, both through community-focused parks and larger destination-style regional parks.
The strategic plan also aims to support future capital grant applications, ensuring sustainable funding for upgrades and new projects.
With the plan now adopted, staff will develop a detailed implementation plan with priority actions, timelines, and budgeting considerations. Initial steps will focus on achievable projects within existing resources, setting the stage for longer-term investments.