A new roundabout at the intersection of South Shore Road and North Shore Road in Lake Cowichan will be constructed to improve motorist and pedestrian safety, as a result of a partnership between the government of B.C. and the Town of Lake Cowichan.

The project will also include resurfacing approximately three kilometres of South Shore Road between Youbou Road and Peterson Road. Combining the resurfacing work with the roundabout construction will reduce traffic disruptions and save money. Work on both projects is scheduled to begin in spring 2013 and is expected to finish in the summer of 2013. This work follows the streetscaping improvements completed by the Town of Lake Cowichan, as part of its Downtown Revitalization plan.

The government of B.C. will pay for the resurfacing work, which is estimated to cost $1.8 million. The construction of the roundabout will be 50/50 cost-shared between the government of B.C. and the Town of Lake Cowichan. Design and engineering plans for the roundabout are underway, with final project details expected early in the New Year.

Roundabouts improve safety and traffic flow by moving vehicles efficiently through busy areas. They also decrease the amount and severity of collisions that occur in conventional signalized intersections. Roundabouts also decrease traffic idling, improving air quality and reducing greenhouse-gas emissions.

Quotes:

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Mary Polak -

"By partnering with the Town of Lake Cowichan, we were able to expand the scope of the project to include a roundabout and deliver a cost-effective project. Lake Cowichan is a popular tourist destination and this work will improve safety for visitors, families and commuters, and provide a visually appealing entrance to the community."

Town of Lake Cowichan Mayor Ross Forrest -

"This work is extremely important to the residents and business community of Lake Cowichan. By working together with the ministry, we're able to combine the paving and roundabout work to reduce construction delays and deliver a successful cost-effective project in the New Year."

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the government of B.C. has invested more than $400 million on road and bridge improvements on Vancouver Island.

• Roundabouts reduce vehicle speeds through an intersection, and as a result improve safety for all road users - pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

• Roundabouts are growing in popularity in North American due to their safety and environmental benefits.

• There are currently 22 roundabouts on roads under provincial jurisdiction. There are also numerous roundabouts on municipal roads throughout the province.

Learn More:

For more information on how to use a roundabout, visit: http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/roundabouts/index.html

Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241