A traffic signal is still not on the radar as options are considered for a dangerous intersection.
Local politicians met with the Ministry of Transportation Wednesday to discuss Stickle Road and Highway 97, and while businesses and residents want a signal, the ministry is not considering that concept.
“The ministry has been adamant they don’t want to do that,” said Bob Fleming, BX-Swan Lake director.
The ministry has stated previously that a traffic signal could delay traffic flow, lengthen vehicle queues and lead to accidents.
Discussions Wednesday revolved around possibly extending 20th Street from Rona to Vernon Volkswagen to create another link between Stickle Road and Vernon without vehicles using the highway.
“The ministry is promising a short turnaround and we should see something (for consideration) in a month,” said Fleming.
“They know they have to solve the intersection. We’re getting somewhere.”
Akbal Mund, Vernon mayor, admits residents want a traffic light while the ministry remains firmly opposed.
“You can stay at a stalemate or look at options that satisfy everyone,” he said.
The most recent plan from the ministry called for a protected T intersection to allow for left-turns from Stickle Road on to the highway towards Vernon. There would be a separate left turn with turn-around access for Silver Star RV Park and the ministry would eliminate highway cross-movements and left-hand turns from the RV park.
That plan drew widespread public opposition.
