If you're in the habit of using the trails around Cowichan you have probably noticed some work that has been done over the past four years.

The Cowichan Valley Regional District parks committee has been using money from a $1.7 million grant from the Island Coast Economic Trust to build and improve and extensive network of trails all over Cowichan.

The grant money was to be used within a four year period and the deadline is fast approaching, but the work is not done.

So, Brian Farquhar, manager of parks and trails for the CVRD, said they are asking for an extension of the grant to finish what they started.

 “We’ve got some components still to complete and are very happy to have the funding, but just want to make sure we have the necessary time frame to finish it.”

He said the grant has allowed them to work on a number of projects over the past four years including the restoration of the Kinsol-Trestle trail.

The grant extension would allow them to also finish the ‘rail with trail’ north and south of Chemainus, as well as a trail connecting north of Duncan with the Cowichan Exhibition grounds.

Farquhar added the extended time frame would make it possible for them to try to stretch their existing money by applying for funding from other groups. He said to this point they have been able to use the $1.7 million grant to raise an additional $6.9 million.

The request is expected to go before the Island Coast Economic Trust for review on Sept. 21.

They are asking to have until Dec. 2014 to finish the project.

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