The Government of British Columbia released a new and comprehensive 20-year transportation strategy for the Central Okanagan today.
The 333-page document covers and examines a range of projects for the next two decades between Peachland and Lake Country, but there’s one idea that will stand out more than others.
As had been said in the past, there are no plans to build a second crossing over Okanagan Lake, but the strategy explores the possibility of widening the William R. Bennett Bridge.
It would entail widening the bridge to six lanes, three in either direction, providing an opportunity for dedicated HOV and/or transit lanes across the bridge during peak hours.
“Adding a sixth lane to the existing bridge structure requires relocating the existing active transportation facility potentially with a sidewalk extension by cantilever,” the strategy explains.
“This concept was investigated from a structural perspective and was found to be likely feasible given the existing structure is symmetrical. The proposed sidewalk extension could be constructed with cast-in-place concrete or lightweight steel.”
The strategy also dives into the future extension of Clement Avenue to Hwy 33, which it says “has been identified as an integral component of the City of Kelowna’s long-range transportation plans.”
The City’s transportation plan recommends the extension be a two-lane arterial from Spall Road heading east to tie into the intersection of Hwy 97 and Hwy 33, with potential extension to McCurdy Road in the future.
It’s recommended in the 20-year strategy that the Province supports the City of Kelowna to advance the project for further design.
The strategy also identifies plenty of projects and ideas for West Kelowna, with one of the most notable being the future of downtown Westbank.
Although conceptual at this point, it proposes turning the existing Hwy 97 couplet through the area into a four-lane highway on Dobbin Road.
Meanwhile, Main Street would transform into a two-lane corridor for local traffic with a higher focus on safety and connectivity for walking, cycling and other modes of active transportation.
It aligns with the City of West Kelowna’s goals of revitalizing Main Street to serve as a “high-street” for the community, but not with the City’s current desire to shift the highway to Dobbin Road as a two-lane arterial.
The strategy also calls for intersection improvements in Peachland and improvements to the Commonwealth Road and Glenmore/Beaver Lake corridor in Lake Country.
"This exciting vision for the future of transportation in the Central Okanagan is the result of extensive collaboration with local governments and First Nations," said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
"It provides a clear path forward for the Province and communities to work together to make good land-use decisions, improve roads, enhance public transit, promote active transportation and support a healthier environment.”
The strategy was formed through learnings gained from previous studies conducted by partners in the region and supports a focus on integrated land use, which includes creating hubs for employment, shopping, recreation and housing.
It also focuses on higher-density and mixed-use development near public transit, which is meant to help make communities more livable, support transit ridership and reduce the impact of cars.
To scour through the entire 333-page document yourself, click this link.
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