Plans to build a Peachland pier that offers greater accessibility to the lake are inching closer to reality.
The District of Peachland, together with Peachland Pier Group gained the financial support of the Rick Hansen Foundation, which awarded them a grant of $26,000 to help build the new wheelchair-accessible pier adjacent to Heritage Park in Peachland.
The Foundation, based in Richmond, develops programs and initiatives that raise awareness, change attitudes and remove barriers for people with disabilities. The Peachland gift was part of the Foundation’s “Barrier Buster” initiative, which channels Canadian Government funding to schools and community groups across Canada in support of access-improvement projects and to advance awareness building.
“We’re very proud to have this project be chosen by the Foundation,” said Peachland Mayor Cindy Fortin.
“Accessibility is a vital ingredient for any liveable, enjoyable community. This pier will give everyone, including people in wheelchairs and walkers, a chance to better enjoy our beautiful lakeshore.”
The Pier Group also received a $14,000 gift from Tolko Industries.
Based in Vernon, Tolko is a global supplier of forest products, with a strong track record of investing in regional communities.
Eldon Kerbes, President of the Peachland Pier Group spearheading the project, said these gifts and others demonstrate how the Peachland Heritage Pier project is a model of public-private partnership.
“Our organization is working hard to raise money from many sources, including individuals, corporations and government grants.,” said Kerbes.
“Add to this the logistical and moral support of the mayor, council, and district staff, we’re all working to create a beautiful amenity for the people of Peachland, and everyone living in and visiting the region. With the gifts from the Rick Hansen Foundation and Tolko, we’ve turned the corner toward the home stretch.”
Kerbes indicated that donors of $100 or more will be recognized on stainless steel plaques on or near the pier. In addition, the pier will feature an array of interpretive signage recounting the region’s unique heritage.
“Contributing to this project is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be part of a wonderful legacy, while honoring a loved one, or demonstrating your organization’s support for Okanagan history and culture,” he said.
To learn more about the project, and make a contribution. visit the web site at https://www.peachlandpier.org.