The City of Vernon wants to ensure bridge and culvert crossings are safe.
An application is being sent to the provincial government to fund a creek crossing condition assessment study.
The study would look at all 46 creek crossings in the community.
“As many of the creek crossing works are well below the visible road surface and out of sight, the condition of many creek crossings is unknown and needs to be assessed to continue to develop the city’s asset management program,” said Chris Thompson, infrastructure management technician.
“Recently, sink holes adjacent to the creek crossing on 30th Avenue were noticed and investigation by staff resulted in a 2015 capital project to repair the culvert.”
The study could cost $25,000 and a maximum provincial grant of $10,000 could be received.
“But even if we don’t get the grant, we’re doing it because it’s in the budget,” said Coun. Brian Quiring of the study.
Coun. Juliette Cunningham also supports the study given recent sink holes.
“It’s prudent to be sure what our issues are,” she said.
Water studies
A Vernon politician wants assurances that limited dollars aren’t being wasted.
The city is seeking a grant from the Okanagan Basin Water Board for indoor water conservation and sanitary flow management. However, Coun. Catherine Lord questions whether this process will be different than previous studies done by the city, OBWB and the Regional District of North Okanagan.
“I’d like to see that it’s worthwhile and not a repeat of what we’ve done in the past,” she said.
Federal grants are also being sought for extension of Okanagan Landing sewer and building capacity for the long-term sewer utility plan.
