November 28, 2011
$200,000 to Improve Highway Safety in Osoyoos

OSOYOOS – The Province is investing $200,000 in highway safety improvement projects in Osoyoos. These projects are:

• $150,000 for installation of traffic signal to improve safety at the Highway 3/Cottonwood Drive intersection in Osoyoos.
• $50,000 for pedestrian crossing improvements in Osoyoos. Specific improvements have yet to be finalized with the municipality. 

Why this matters:

• Osoyoos is a popular destination for tourists, and many walk to beaches, stores and services in the community.  Improvements to pedestrian crossings on the highway will enhance the public’s safety.
• Cottonwood Drive provides access to Cottonwood Park, vacation accommodations and local homes and farms. A signal at the Cottonwood intersection with Highway 3 will improve safety for motorists entering and exiting the highway.
• These safety improvements were prioritized through ongoing discussions with local governments and community representatives. Feedback from motorists and technical evaluations also helped determine priorities.
• The Province is investing over $5 million this year in 50 projects across the province that will improve the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists on highways near and through communities.
• Many of the 50 projects are underway and all will be complete by this fall.
• Safety enhancements across the province include additional roadside and pavement reflectors, side road lighting, speed reader boards, intersection improvements, pedestrian crosswalk upgrades, safety improvements for cyclists and pedestrians, and rest area improvements.

Quote:

“It’s important to make safety a priority especially with resort communities like Osoyoos where they triple in population during the busy summer months.  Making improvements for pedestrians or adding turn signals for motorists – these projects will benefit those living, visiting or travelling through the community.” 
-Boundary-Similkameen MLA John Slater

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