Vernon, B.C., October 12, 2011 – Representatives from the federal, provincial and municipal governments were in Vernon today to celebrate the completion of the safety improvement projects at the intersection of Highway 6 and Highway 97.
The improvements included the addition of dual opposing left-turn lanes, eastbound and westbound onto Highway 97. Modified right-turn lanes at all four corners of the intersection were also constructed to allow for safer sight distances. As well, enhancements were made to the cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, including improved sidewalks and paved shoulders with cycling markings.
“The Government of Canada is proud to support these important improvements to the intersection of Highway 97 and Highway 6, here in Vernon,” said Okanagan-Shuswap MP Colin Mayes, on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. “This initiative provides a safer and more efficient intersection for commuters, and is an excellent example of how our Government is delivering real results to communities acrossBritish Columbia.”
“I knowVernonresidents will be very pleased to see this initiative complete,” declared Vernon-Monashee MLA Eric Foster. “It means increased safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike.”
Highway 97 serves both local and regional traffic, often resulting in competing demands. The City ofVernonand theOkanaganValleyare undergoing significant growth, generating increasing traffic volumes along the Highway 97 corridor. Annual traffic volumes are in the order of 23,000 - 24,000 vehicles per day in this area.
The total cost of this initiative was approximately $5 million. Total joint funding toward eligible costs under the Provincial Territorial Base Fund was $2.5 million. TheProvinceofBCcontributed the remaining balance to cover additional expenses such as property acquisition, engineering, construction supervision, and other additional internal overhead costs.
The Provincial-Territorial Base Fund is providing $175 million toBritish Columbiato address core infrastructure priorities such as water, wastewater, green energy, and highways. Under this program, federal funding flows based on approved Capital Plans.
For more information contact:
Pierre Floréa
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
613-991-0700
Maclean Kay
B.C. Liberal Government Caucus Communications:
Phone: 250-952-0778
Email: maclean.kay@leg.bc.ca
Infrastructure Canada
613-948-1148
Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
