A new pedestrian signal is en route to Courtenay’s busy Ryan Road and Cowichan Avenue crossing.
B.C. transportation minister Rob Fleming says the ministry worked with the City of Courtenay and other stakeholders, who identified this project as a priority.
“The new signal will make it safer and easier for pedestrians, cyclists and people with mobility challenges to cross and access the local college and amenities,” Fleming said.
The signal will help pedestrians and cyclists cross both the Ryan Road corridor and over to the North Island College and Comox Valley Aquatic Centre.
The existing concrete islands will be replaced to improve safety and will include wheelchair accessible ramps.
Cyclists will be able to use dedicated push buttons adjacent to Cowichan Avenue and the intersection will be repainted.
“I’m happy to see improvements on the way that will allow people to more safely cross over busy Ryan Road to North Island College, the hospital and the aquatic centre,” said Ronna-Rae Leonard, MLA for Courtenay-Comox. “Improved safety at this spot will allow people to more easily cross on foot and will help encourage more people to use active transport like cycling in our community.”
Construction will begin next week, and is expected to be done by early April.
The decision to install a pedestrian crossing was made in consultation with the City of Courtenay and supports the city’s transportation master plan.
“Through extensive consultation in recent years for Courtenay’s transportation master plan, it was made clear to us that Ryan Road was an area of concern for people who walk, cycle and use mobility aids, particularly with the number of students in and around this area,” said Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells.
“Our council is thankful that the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure took these concerns seriously and grateful they are moving this crosswalk project forward for the benefit of our community.”
Drivers are reminded to obey construction zone speed limits and the direction of traffic control personnel. For the most up-to-date information before travel, check: DriveBC.ca.
