Victoria, BC– The Pender Island Parks and Recreation Commission has announced the official opening of the Schooner Way Trail, a new multi‑use pathway improving safety and connectivity on Pender Island.
The new Schooner Way Trail provides a safer, active transportation route connecting Danny Martin Ballpark to the Pender School and supports healthier, more sustainable ways to get around the island.
The project was made possible through funding from the BC Active Transportation Grant Program, the Canada Community-Building Fund, Island Coastal Economic Trust, ICBC, the Capital Regional District (CRD), and generous donations from the local community.
| Pender Island Schooner Way Trail – Funding Breakdown | |
| BC Provincial Active Transportation Grant | $1,000,000 |
| CRD Community Parks | $398.854 |
| Canada Community-Building Fund - Community Works Fund | $425,000 |
| Island Coastal Economic Trust | $65,000 |
| ICBC | $79,200 |
| Public Donations from Pender Island | $140,748 (received so far) |
The community played a pivotal role in bringing the Schooner Way Trail from concept to completion. Local residents, businesses, and volunteers contributed their time, expertise, and resources to make the project possible. More than 120 financial donations, ranging from $5 to $30,000, demonstrated the depth and breadth of community support. This collective effort, in so many forms, has been essential to turning the project into a reality.
The opening of the Schooner Way Trail will be celebrated on March 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Bridgemans Bistro at the Port Browning Marina, with a screening of the documentary by Charles Schrodt and Full Speed Ahead Productions that showcases the trail’s construction.
The CRD and project partners thank everyone involved for their dedication and support in creating infrastructure that enhances everyday life on Pender Island.
Quotes:
Mike Farnworth, British Columbia Minister of Transportation and Transit:
“Our ministry continues to prioritize and support improving road safety and transportation options for people throughout B.C. This pathway will provide an affordable, healthy and sustainable way to help bring island residents together.”
The Honourable Stephanie McLean, Secretary of State (Seniors):
“The Schooner Way Trail improves Pender Island’s active transportation network, helping make the community safer, greener, and more connected. Through the Canada Community Building Fund, we’re supporting communities across Canada to build vibrant, inclusive places to live.”
Paul Brent, Electoral Area Director, Southern Gulf Islands and Chair of the CRD’s Electoral Area Committee:
“This trail is the result of years of collaboration, commitment, and strong community support. The Schooner Way Trail makes it safer for people of all ages and abilities to travel between important destinations, while reflecting the values of this community, safety, sustainability, and connection. The trail is especially interesting as a project of the Pender Island Parks and Recreation Commission, a volunteer run service that benefited from the enthusiasm and ambition of Rob Fawcett as project manager to bring the vision to fruition.”
Brodie Guy, CEO of the Island Coastal Economic Trust:
“Nature-based tourism is a powerful driver of resilient, diversified island economies, and we’re proud to partner on and invest in this transformative community asset. By improving access to nature and strengthening the island’s appeal as a destination, this project will increase visitation, extend visitor stays, and generate new revenue for local businesses. It reflects the kind of strategic, forward-focused investment that creates lasting economic benefits for communities.”
Paul de Leur, manager of ICBC's road improvement program:
“We invest in safer infrastructure to prevent crashes and help keep people safe, because that’s what matters most. We’re pleased to help fund this new multi-use pathway to make it safer for vulnerable road users to travel on Pender Island. We’ll continue supporting projects that make our communities safer for all road users."
The CRD delivers regional, sub-regional and local services to 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24-member Board of Directors, the CRD works collaboratively with First Nations and government partners to enable sustainable growth, foster community well-being, and develop cost-effective infrastructure while continuing to provide core services to residents throughout the region. Visit us online at www.crd.ca.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Andy Orr, Senior Manager
CRD Corporate Communications & Engagement
Tel: 250.360.3229
Cell: 250.216.5492
