Blenkinsop Lake Bridge & Lochside Regional Trail

he bridge and trails to the north The 280 metre (920 ft.) and south of the lake are the result bridge, designed by Graeme & T of partnerships committed towards Murray Engineering Consultants a single goal. This goal is to make the Saanich was constructed by Surespan Peninsula Trail from downtown Victoria to Construction Ltd. in the Swartz Bay into a continuous greenway and summer of 2000. In addition Remnants of the railway trestle built during World War 1. alternative transportation route that brings our to being a structural challenge, Saanich Parks Photo. community together. the design is intended to keep within the rural character seen The Lochside Regional Trail in Saanich is a throughout the community. multi-use corridor that forms one of the longest sections of the Saanich Peninsula Trail. Together The project reflects the with other regional trails such as the Galloping historical context of the old Goose, the trails provide a wealth of exploring railway trestle while incorporating opportunities for adventurers of all ages. Some of features that are environmentally A view to Mt. Douglas. Hike the network of trails or go to the summit for the best the trails lead to spectacular ocean views, some sensitive - particularly for the panoramic view of Greater Victoria. guide you through ancient forests while others aquatic and terrestrial life. Saanich Parks Photo. provide the chance to discover many of the A pile driving skidder native trees, shrubs, wildflowers, birds and designed decades ago started animals found throughout Saanich. building the bridge from the Discover, Explore and Enjoy. south side of the lake and drove more than 100 piles

into the lake’s peat bottom. Bridge Construction Crew – Colin James, Gary Cotton, Dave MacGregor, Eric Molcan, Some piles as deep as 57 metres Ken Oxley, Brian Winters & Nessie the Dog. Partnerships (189 ft.) form the support J. Taylor Photo. The bridge construction and trail development was a system for the more than co-operative project generously funded by: one thousand Douglas Fir Canada Millennium Partnership Program, Province of through the planks of the bridge deck and Provincial Capital Commission and the viewing platforms. British Columbia Transportation and Finance Authority Cycling Network Program, Capital Regional District Parks, and the The driving of the Corporation of the District of Saanich “Last Spike” ceremony, held , MLA Saanich South, Frank Leonard, Mayor of Saanich, September 9, 2000 marked the David Cubberley, Saanich Councillor, Chris Pease, Director of Saanich Parks and Public Works, official opening of the bridge. Bob White, President of Surespan Construction Ltd. Key people in the bridge development. A. van der Gugten Photo.