Planning to improve two dangerous intersections appears to be underway, but there’s no guarantee as to when work could be done.
Local politicians were provided with updates on Highway 97 at Stickle and Birnie roads while meeting with Transportation Minister Todd Stone Wednesday.
“They are aware of the issues surrounding these intersections and in August, they will make a presentation to us,” said Bob Fleming, BX-Swan Lake director.
“They’ve come up with some options and they’re supposed to reveal that in August. They said they know they need to be done.”
However, Fleming and his colleagues were warned that any safety upgrades at the intersections will depend on the ministry’s financial situation.
“We will keep lobbying and trying to move these projects up the priority list,” said Fleming.
Stone also met with City of Vernon representatives and the talks focused on congestion along 32nd Street (Highway 97).
“There are a series of left-turn issues through the community,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky.
“The minister and his staff are well aware of those issues.”
Stone told local elected officials that his staff is working on a 10-year plan for rural and side roads.
“It’s important to keep the highways in good shape but those feeder roads are important,” said Jackie Pearase, director for rural Enderby.
Funding and upgrades for rural roads fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transportation.
“The No. 1 call any electoral area director gets is the condition of roads in their area,” said Pearase.
“People depend on those roads to get on with life.”
