Project Question and Answers
Why wasn’t a roundabout considered for this intersection?
This is a multi-jurisdictional project carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation and Transit and Westbank First Nation. In consultation with Westbank First Nation, all proposed improvements were required to remain within existing road dedications on Westbank First Nation land. The City’s design consultant explored a roundabout option with an alignment solely on City-owned land; however, this option resulted in significant property impacts and extensive utility relocations, ultimately making the roundabout option unfeasible.
Why will the intersection be closed for a full three months?
With significant utility work included in the project scope (City watermain, Westbank First Nation watermain, storm infrastructure, shallow utilities, streetlighting), the full closure will allow construction crews to work more efficiency, ultimately helping to reduce the overall project schedule.
Why is this project starting in mid-June?
This is a multi-jurisdictional project carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation and Transit and Westbank First Nation which required extra coordination. The construction project is starting in June due to the way the funding and procurement process unfolded earlier this year. While we had initially anticipated project funding from the Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MOTT) to be confirmed in April or May, we received early approval in January. This allowed our design team to fast-track the bidding process, with the construction tender issued in March and closing at the end of April. The contract was awarded on May 14 to BC General Contracting Inc., the sole bidder, who proposed a mid-June start based on their existing project commitments.
The traffic lights shown in the project rendering look different from the current ones. Will new traffic lights be installed at this intersection?
The traffic signal masts and arms need to be relocated due to the wider intersection but the traffic signal heads (lights) will be re-used.
The Westside Daze parade route usually goes through this area, will there be a new route this year?
Yes, absolutely! The Westside Daze Celebration Society is hard at work preparing for this year. More information on the new route will be released in the coming weeks.
The detour routes are expected to be heavily congested. Will any traffic management or calming measures be implemented?
Detour and speed limit signage will be installed along all detour routes. Traffic control personnel and City staff will continuously monitor the routes to ensure public safety and compliance. Traffic control measures will be adjusted as needed.
The section of Old Okanagan Highway leading to Shannon Lake Road is in poor condition. Will this road be upgraded as part of the project?
The segment of Old Okanagan Highway from the Butt Road intersection to the Westbank First Nation boundary near Reece Road is identified for asphalt resurfacing in the City’s pavement management plan. The intention is to include this work as part of the overall project.
Given West Kelowna’s history of summer wildfires, what happens to the project if an evacuation is required for a nearby neighbourhood?
In the event of an emergency, the contractor will be required to restore the road and intersection to a drivable condition and open all traffic lanes to facilitate an evacuation. Emergency personnel would assist with traffic control.
Are the trees along Butt Road and Old Okanagan Highway being removed as part of the project?
We understand that it will be difficult for our community to lose so many trees along Butt Road and Old Okanagan Highway, but they are scheduled to be removed as part of this project to accommodate major road widening, as the improvements for the intersection include additional left-turn lanes in all directions with permissive left-turns and a new westbound right-turn lane on Butt Road.