A well-used trail is usually something that kind of clears itself throughout the year. Hikers will push logs out of the way, kick rocks off the path and in general keep it clear of debris. In the case of one trail that is in the centre of Princeton, this situation has not been possible. On June 3, of 2010, a parked truck slipped into gear and rolled down the steep street above, slipping by the concrete barrier and tearing out the beloved Zig Zag walkway that connected the second bench residential area to the downtown core. It has been sadly missed by its many users - some of whom used it as their daily route.
Since the accident, the Zig Zag walkway has been a topic of many conversations. When will it be fixed is number one amongst them. The Town of Princeton has been trying to reach a settlement agreement with ICBC over the incident and after much time spent getting no where, was forced to hire a lawyer.
In spite of the angst of the municipality, they have been proceeding with a plan. Bruce Carscadden, Architects who has been behind many of Princeton’s successful community developments created a number of possible concepts for the steep walk which would incorporate elements of both the old design and a safer new design. The zigs and zags will be still a part of the concept, but stairs may also lead a more direct route for those up for the challenge of what may soon become “The Princeton Grind.” The town set aside $50,000 for the trail into the budget for 2011.
Four concepts were presented at the September 19 council meeting. The next step in the process is for the architects to complete the design development for final approval by council. This will be followed by a open bid for tender. Council is very hopeful that at least some of the infrastructure for the Zig Zag will be in place before winter.