Construction work has started along a three-kilometre portion of Giants Head Road in Summerland.
The road upgrade, around four kilometres south of Summerland’s downtown, has long been identified as a problem area in the community, with numerous potholes and patches.
READ ALSO: Summerland approves borrowing for road upgrade
READ ALSO: Bumpy Giant’s Head Road could see improvements
In addition to resurfacing the road, the municipality is also replacing the nearly 90-year-old watermain in the area.
The construction began in early July and is affecting road access to properties in the affected area. The road is now closed to traffic and a detour is available.
The cost of the road upgrades, including adding bike lanes and widening the road surface, are estimated at $3,181,860 while the watermain replacement and water system separation are expected to cost $3,282,640.
“Imagine a smooth road for driving, cycling, walking and events like the Giant’s Head Run,” said the District on their Facebook page.
The municipality has applied to borrow up to $6,464,500 for this project. In July, the borrowing was approved by Summerland’s municipal council and the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen.
The costs of this work will be recovered from users of the system over a 25-year period. Calculations were based on an estimated interest rate of 3.0 per cent. A water rate increase of 4.77 per cent and a property tax increase of 2.05 per cent will go into effect in 2023.
The project is expected to cost property owners and ratepayers in the area an additional $73.15 a year.
To report a typo, email:
news@summerlandreview.com.
news@summerlandreview.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.