Vancouver Island expands active‑transport network with salmon‑themed bike ride and rail‑to‑trail greenway plan

Dozens of cyclists took part in the inaugural Quay to Quay Salmon Bike ride in Port Alberni on July 22, riding a 4.5‑kilometre pathway decorated with salmon‑themed artwork. Mayor Sharie Minions praised the event, which was filmed by HGTV and featured local families and the community group Cycle Alberni.

Separately, Friends of Rails to Trails Vancouver Island (FORT‑VI) held a community walk to promote converting the disused E&N railway into a 289‑km multi‑use greenway linking Victoria, Courtenay, Parksville and Port Alberni. FORT‑VI estimates the trail could generate $95 million in annual economic benefits, with conversion costs of roughly $596 k per kilometre, while highlighting the impracticality of reinstating rail service.