The City of Campbell River saw success with its recent Highway 19A pop-up info booth.
Around 60 people stopped by Rotary Daybreak Park on June 17th and 23rd with questions about construction plans, the Rockland Road closure and how the waterfront stretch of the highway will change.
The city’s project team shared information about the work that’s currently underway and what people can expect when it’s finished.
“It was great to see people stopping by to ask questions about this important project,” says Mayor Andy Adams, who also made a stop to connect with community members. “This booth gave us a chance to share timely information about all the exciting work this summer has in store with the community at a safe physical distance.”
On June 22nd, construction work kicked off at the south end of the construction zone.
Rockland Road is now closed until further notice to vehicle traffic, though pedestrian access will be maintained.
The Highway 19A project will include new underground services (water, sewer, storm) for approximately one kilometre between Simms Creek and Big Rock Boat Ramp, as well as a new centre turn lane, new park spaces and parking areas, an improved seawalk and new sidewalks on the west side of the highway.
This portion of work is two-thirds funded by provincial and federal grants, awarded in 2018.
At the info booth, the project team was able to answer questions about the new Rockland roundabout that will be constructed in the fall as part of this project.
To address the safety hazard at Rockland Road and Highway 19A, the city says a roundabout was selected as it allows traffic flow to continue, is significantly more affordable than traffic lights, has fewer environmental impacts and provides the needed safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians through this corridor.
“We thank everyone who came by to talk about the work to come,” adds deputy city manager Ron Neufeld. “It’s a priority for all of us to make sure the community is informed, both about the impacts in the short term and about all the great new amenities we can look forward to when it’s finished.”
