INFORMATION RELEASE

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is continuing to support efforts to reopen the historic Adra Tunnel located on the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail above Naramata in Electoral Area “E”. The project was initiated by a community group known as the Woodwackers 2.0. The group is a diverse community network spanning generations and industries. The RDOS is working collaboratively with the Woodwackers 2.0, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, and several local contractors to reopen the tunnel. 

“The reopening of the Adra Tunnel will enhance tourism in the region and become a destination for people of all ages,” said Adrienne Fedrigo, Electoral Area “E” Director. “This important restoration project is the result of a strong community vision and financial contributions from a wide cross section of the community.” 

With approval from the Province of B.C., the phased project has moved from engineered assessments to determine the feasibility of opening the tunnel to physical rock bolting and shotcrete work to stabilize the structure. To date, project accomplishments include more than 2,000 cubic metres of rock removed, 121 of 412 bolts installed, and 42 cubic metres of shotcrete sprayed. 1,200 ft. (365 metres) of the Adra Tunnel have been secured in 2023, with 400 ft. remaining (121 metres). 

“The Adra Tunnel has been closed to the public for more than 40 years,” said Mark Pendergraft, RDOS Chair. “Now, thanks to private donations, the full potential of the KVR may once again become a reality.” 

To learn more about Adra Tunnel or make a donation to help complete the project, please visit https://www.adratunnel.com. Donations are being overseen by Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen and the Regional District. To view recent video from the site, please visit the RDOS YouTube channel. 

For further information, please contact Mark Woods, RDOS Senior Manager of Community Services. 

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen 

Adrienne Fedrigo, Electoral Area “E” Director
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen 

Contacts: 

Mark Woods
RDOS Senior Manager of Community Services
250-490-4132 

RDOS Communications
250-490-4148
1-877-610-3737 

Background

• The 109-year-old Adra Tunnel is the longest tunnel on the Okanagan’s KRV Trail.
• 2,000 cubic metres of rock and debris have been cleared from the tunnel.
• The informal community network working to reopen the Adra Tunnel consists of residents and business owners from Penticton and Naramata.
• Private donations in excess of $700,000 raised, with an additional $300,000 needed.
• This is the first time in the past 30 years the tunnel has been close to reopening.

Adra Tunnel entrance, October 26, 2023

Adra Tunnel rock removal, October 26, 2023