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Ladysmith, BC — The Town of Ladysmith's desire to create a world class mountain biking trail network in the community is one pedal closer to reality thanks to a provincial grant.
The Town has received a $59,789 grant from the Province's Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) to begin the Ladysmith Mountain Bike Trail Network Planning and Feasibility Study, which will focus on the creation of mountain biking infrastructure in and around Ladysmith to support tourism, local businesses, and green economic growth. Upon completion, the study will produce a detailed plan that will serve as the foundation for trail development.
“This is an exciting step forward for our community. Investing in a mountain bike trail network aligns with our vision of sustainable growth, supports our local businesses, and showcases the natural beauty that makes Ladysmith so special. We’re thrilled to begin this planning work and explore new opportunities for recreation, tourism, and green economic development,” says Mayor Deena Beeston.
Key components of the feasibility study include working with major landowners and First Nations to establish access and mutual economic benefit, and an economic impact assessment and market analysis. With over 3,800 metres of combined vertical elevation across the Mount Coronation, Hall, and Brenton massifs—forming the dramatic western backdrop to Ladysmith—and with the Town’s proximity to the Nanaimo airport and major ferry terminals in Canada’s warmest winter region, Ladysmith offers not only an ideal setting for year-round mountain biking, but a major competitive advantage in attracting riders from other regions.
"As a mountain biker and the Town’s Director of Development Services, few projects excite me as much as this one. A world class trail network, vibrant downtown and revitalized waterfront will be an economic trifecta for Ladysmith and surrounding communities,” says Jake Belobaba, Direct of Development Services. “The project is a crucial first step in transforming Ladysmith into a sought-after destination for mountain bikers.”
In 2019, the Economic Development Strategy Steering Committee, comprised of representatives from the Stz'uminus First Nation, the Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures, Nanaimo Airport Commission and the Ladysmith Downtown Business Association, identified the establishment of a mountain biking network as one of three top priority projects, the other two being the Arts and Heritage Hub and the Waterfront Area Plan. Mountain bike trail development was identified as a substantial economic development opportunity due to the benefits of mountain biking tourism. The recommendations of the Economic Development Strategy were later incorporated into the Town’s award-winning Official Community Plan, Ladysmith Unparalleled.
“With North Cowichan already home to three world-class mountain biking destinations attracting over 80,000 visitors annually and with Nanaimo offering well-established networks, our region is already a draw for riders. We believe the creation of a world-class trail network in Ladysmith will not only solidify the Nanaimo-Duncan region as a mountain biking hub but will also be instrumental in establishing our town as a premier tourist destination on Vancouver Island," says Nicholas Pescod, the Town's Communications & Engagement Specialist.
For the latest news and updates, visit the Town’s website at www.ladysmith.ca, as well as Facebook and Instagram.
The Town of Ladysmith respectfully acknowledges that we gather and work on the unceded territory of the Stz'uminus First Nation, the traditional keepers of this land.
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Media Contact Nicholas Pescod Communications & Engagement Specialist npescod@ladysmith.ca 250-268-0606