For over ten years, the Peak to Platzl link has been an integral part of daily life in Kimberley, situated in British Columbia’s East Kootenay region. Recently, discussions surrounding the removal of the staircase and reassessment of a portion of the trail, which serves as a vital link between downtown Kimberley and the ski resort, have ignited a debate over potential community losses.
The city attributes the decision to engineering concerns, citing issues related to slope stability, retaining walls, and the deteriorating condition of the staircase and trail, as identified through years of engineering evaluations. The Peak to Platzl staircase has been off-limits since 2024, with the city stating that upgrading the current route to modern safety standards in a feasible and cost-effective manner is not viable.
Mayor Don McCormick acknowledges the significance of the connection to residents but emphasizes that the decision to modify the trail is rooted in prioritizing science and public safety over public opinion. The city council has proposed the removal of the staircase, the development of a decommissioning strategy for the trail section beneath Norton Avenue, and the establishment of an alternative link between the resort area and downtown.
Residents express concerns that the suggested alternative route may not offer the same level of connectivity between the ski hill and downtown. While recognizing the safety issues, bioresource engineer Chris Bullock believes that deactivating the existing route should not equate to losing the connection entirely, considering its importance for the downtown business community and hillside trails.
David Scott highlights that the alternative route would require a longer walk to downtown and lacks the same leisurely experience for pedestrians and cyclists as the current trail. He emphasizes that the existing trail is more than just a pathway; it is a fundamental asset that contributes to Kimberley’s uniqueness.
Despite the opposition from residents, the city is moving forward with the staircase removal. The fate of the trail section below Norton Avenue will be deliberated by the council once a decommissioning plan is finalized.
Residents like David and Margaret Scott, who have integrated the trail into their daily routines for nearly two decades, stress the trail’s significance in their lives, including dog walks, exercise, and community connections. They call for better communication from the city regarding such infrastructure decisions to ensure residents are informed and engaged in the town’s developments.
Kalle Eriksson, a Kimberley resident and Paralympian in para alpine skiing, voices frustration over the potential loss of the trail connection, which plays a vital role in his daily commute due to his visual impairment that restricts his ability to drive.
The ongoing dispute over the Peak to Platzl trail underscores its deep-rooted importance to the Kimberley community, serving as a symbol of its unique character and a crucial link between different parts of the town.