Campbell River City Council has decided to move ahead with plans to improve bike lanes on Hilchey Road, beginning with two approved projects.
In 2022, parking-protected bike lanes were added to Hilchey Road after council approved water main upgrades, but the city said several concerns have since prompted a full safety review.
“Council requested a full safety review earlier this year,” the city said. “Following that direction, McElhanney Ltd. reviewed the corridor and explored options to improve safety for all road users.”
Changes will include a neighbourhood bikeway along Penfield, Parkway and Simms roads, including separated two-way bike lanes on Hilchey Road between Dogwood Street and Penfield Road.
A flashing light will also be added to the existing crosswalk at Hilchey Road and Fern Drive.
Council also plans to undertake a safety review near Penfield Elementary School and put in place a temporary speed reduction for the school zone until the end of the year.
To fund the project, council increased the 2026 budget for cycling infrastructure to $750,000, with $236,333 allocated from the Carbon Neutral Reserve.
A detailed design is now being drafted and construction is expected to begin later this summer.
