Work is now underway on three safety enhancement projects that will result in improved safety for East Kootenay residents and travellers.
“These are just the kind of safety improvements we could use on our highways in the East Kootenays. I know we’re pretty good drivers out here, but a little added visibility, speed reminders and acceleration lanes will definitely benefit the travelling public,” saic Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett.
Project details: The three highway improvement projects are funded through the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure’s community safety program and include the following:
• Improve highway curve delineation and barrier reflectors on Highway 3 between Sparwood and the Alberta border. In addition, install an open/closed sign for eastbound traffic at the intersection of Highway 3 and Highway 43 in Sparwood so motorists have a safe place to stop should Highway 3 be closed.
• Purchase two trailer mounted speed readers for use in various locations around the Fernie area. Speed reader boards increase the safety of pedestrians and the travelling public by advising motorists when they are travelling too fast.
• Construct southbound acceleration and deceleration lanes at the intersection of Highway 43 and Sparwood Heights Drive to improve safety for vehicles entering or leaving the highway. These intersection improvements in Sparwood will provide increased safety, mobility, and reliability for all users, including local traffic to access Whiskey Jack Resort Community and Whiskey Jack Golf course.
These projects are part of $5 million invested this year by the Government of British Columbia for safety projects in and near B.C. communities to improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists on provincial highways.
These projects were chosen by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure through consultation with local governments and law enforcement. Many of the projects are underway; all will be complete by winter.
Work on these projects will be complete in September.
Follow the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at www.tranbc.ca.