Columbia Valley Pioneer staff

Bank erosion has resulted in a small section of the Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail to be cordoned off to the public.

“The trail remains fully open, there is just one small section that has experienced some erosion on the down hill side of the embankment and we are asking trail users to detour around that area until we have been able to fully assess it,” said RDEK General Manager of Engineering and Environmental Services Kevin Paterson. “We have marked this section with flagging tape, signage and barriers.  While there is plenty of space to go around the affected area and trail access has not been impeded, we are urging trail users to slow down and exercise caution while going around the barriers as this is an area adjacent to Westside Road.”

The RDEK has reached out to a geotechnical engineering firm to complete a full assessment and they are expected to be on site early next week.

“We will continue to keep the public advised as we learn more, but would like to thank trail users for respecting the temporary barricades and for their patience while we work to restore full access,” said Paterson.

The affected section is on the Invermere end of the of trail east of the main parking lot.