July 27, 2020
The District of Sooke is proud to announce that Phase 1 of the Demamiel Creek “Little River” Pedestrian Crossing is now open.
Phase 1 of the multi-phased project includes construction of 250 metres of trail connection, expansion of existing sidewalks and a new decorative crosswalk, all of which link the project to the larger “Sun Run” trail system.
The Sun Run trail is one of three large trail systems in Sooke that include directional and wayfinding signage. Several years ago, the Sooke Program of the Arts Committee issued a call to artists to design symbols for each of the trails to be displayed on the signage. A yellow sunfish was chosen as the symbol for the Sun Run. Using the sunfish design, four options were drawn up for a colourful crosswalk as a part of the Demamiel Creek Crossing project. Each of the four options was presented to the students of Poirier Elementary, who chose the final design in a school-wide election.
“Today’s opening comes at a time when we could all use a bit of good news,” says Sooke Mayor, Maja Tait. “I’m proud of the work that has been done on this project. Increased trail infrastructure benefits our residents and the environment, and by working closely with the students to implement their vision, we’ve opened a door for ongoing partnership as we plan for the future of our community.”
Upon seeing the new sunfish crosswalk design, Oliver, aged 10, said, “woah, this is cool!”
Known as “Little River” by the T’Sou-ke Nation, Demamiel Creek runs from high in the Sooke Hills, passing through the areas of Pascoe Road, Helgesen Road, and between Sunriver and Poirier Elementary/Journey Middle school, before joining the Sooke River near the Sooke River Campground.
The multi-phased Demamiel Creek Pedestrian Crossing project will connect the Sunriver neighbourhood with Sooke’s town centre by expanding multi-use trail corridors through the area and across Demamiel Creek. Phase 2 of the project will include 600 metres of gravel multi-use trail and a steel-wooden bridge.
Media Contact:
Mayor Maja Tait
(250) 642-1634
Email: mtait@sooke.ca
