Taking a flying leap may become a regular pursuit in Whistler.
Whistler Bungee Inc. has applied to the B.C. Assets and Land Corporation for permission to build a 225-foot suspension bridge across the Cheakamus River which would be used for commercial bungee jumping.
The pedestrian bridge, which would be open to the public, is proposed for a canyon area 5 km south of the Cal-Cheak Recreation site, within municipal boundaries. The bridge would be approximately 200 feet above the river. There would be no other development at the site other than the bridge, trails and public washrooms on the east side of the canyon.
The bridge would also provide a trail connection to Jane Lakes from the Cal-Cheak trail. A parking lot is proposed in an extinguished gravel pit just north of the bridge site, which could also be used by kayakers.
Don van der Horst, a consultant for Whistler Bungee Inc., told Whistler council Monday the bridge would provide a "significant recreational amenity" for Whistler.
Chris Rollett, one of two partners in Whistler Bungee Inc., is a 30-year Whistler resident who has been operating and teaching bungee jumping for the past 14 years.
Rollett stressed that Whistler Bungee Inc. was not associated with the Bungy Zone on Vancouver Island.
Whistler council Monday endorsed the continued review of the application. Whistler council will have to rezone the site if BCAL grants approval to construct the bridge.
Previous proposals for bungee jumping in Whistler, which have included more development, have been rejected.
