The Town of Smithers Cycle 16 Connector Trail is a critical active transportation link that brings the award‑winning Cycle 16 Multi‑Use Pathway directly into the community. Completed in 2025, the Connector establishes a safe, accessible, all‑ages‑and‑abilities corridor that links the regional trail to key destinations within Smithers, including the Fall Fair Grounds, the Perimeter Trail, the Fulton Avenue MUP, and the downtown core.

Designed in accordance with the 2019 BC Active Transportation Design Guide, the project incorporates engineered switchbacks, a new pedestrian bridge, solar‑powered lighting, stormwater infrastructure, and technical solutions to construct the trail through an old municipal landfill. The use of an unused Town road right‑of‑way allowed the trail to be delivered without property acquisition while navigating complex terrain and environmental constraints.

The project emerged from a multi‑year route selection and engagement process led in partnership with the Town of Smithers, Cycle 16 Trail Society, Fall Fair Society, MoTT, and community stakeholders. This collaborative approach resulted in a preferred alignment that balances technical feasibility, safety, accessibility, and long‑term community needs.

The Connector strengthens sustainable mobility, reduces reliance on vehicles, and improves equitable access to schools, recreation, employment, and major community events. Its strong community support, environmental benefits, Indigenous engagement, and technical excellence make it a model for small‑community active transportation infrastructure.

The project was delivered through a structured yet adaptable approach that emphasized early analysis, collaboration, and evidence‑based decision‑making. Initial work focused on evaluating multiple routing scenarios, assessing safety, environmental constraints, constructability, and connectivity to Smithers’ existing active transportation network. This technical screening clarified opportunities and limitations within the Town right‑of‑way and identified priority design challenges such as grade transitions, municipal road connections, creek crossing requirements and an at grade highway crossing. Stakeholder and community engagement guided key decisions at each stage. Engagement and targeted discussions with the Town of Smithers, Cycle 16 Trail Society, Fall Fair Society, MoTT, and the Office of the Wet’suwet’en provided direction on alignment refinement, event access considerations, accessibility features, and lighting needs. Public input further shaped elements related to user experience, safety, and trail connections.

The design team applied the BC AT Design Guide and BC Supplement to TAC throughout development, incorporating engineered switchbacks, a pedestrian bridge, solar lighting, and stormwater improvements in a way that integrated smoothly with surrounding infrastructure. The final design reflects a deliberate, data‑driven, and community‑responsive approach that ensured the trail delivered maximum benefit within its urban and environmental constraints.

The Connector Trail delivers a safe, accessible link between Cycle 16 Phase 1 and key Smithers destinations, enabling year‑round walking and cycling. It has strengthened community connectivity, improved equitable access for low‑income neighborhoods, reduced vehicle reliance, and enhanced access to major events and recreation. The project has become a vital component of Smithers’ active transportation network.