A major infusion of cash is being directed towards attempts to have Vernonites abandon their cars.
City council has authorized $600,000 from reserves for construction of 15 sidewalk, bicycle and multi-use path projects.
“The projects were identified in the official community plan and the transportation plan,” said Amanda Watson, a transportation technician.
“We are creating a realistic alternative to the vehicle.”
Six of the projects involve sidewalks, including $170,000 for Okanagan Avenue from South Vernon Road to the Cliffs complex.
A further $104,531 will be spent on sidewalks for 36th Street from Okanagan Avenue to Mission Hill Elementary School.
Five of the projects will see bicycle lanes created, including the widening of the Mission Road shoulder for $96,000.
“There is only shoulder on the side of the road,” said Watson, adding that the project will extend to the Allan Brooks Nature Centre.
“This will be an area for pedestrians and cyclists.”
Funds will also go towards three multi-use trails.
The largest project will be $50,000 for a cross-walk on 39th Avenue, at the curling club, which will connect to a trail.
A further $25,875 will be spent on a trail on Marshall Road from Cummins to Lakeshore roads, while $1,000 is geared towards signage.
One goal of the initiative is to improve signs in school zones.
“We need to highlight to drivers to slow down,” said Watson.
