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Bernard Ave. Revitalization  

Bernard Ave. reopening a month early

Phase 3a of the $14-million Bernard Avenue revitalization project is nearing completion.

It is anticipated Bernard Avenue will to reopen to motorists by 4 p.m. today (Thursday).

The section of Bernard was completed nearly a month ahead of schedule, likely due in part to the fact only one block was worked on, not two as was originally anticipated.

“We are happy to see another section of Bernard Avenue completed,” says Bill Berry, Director of Design & Construction Services.

“It was unfortunate to see Phase 3 split into two phases, but it has really just put the project back to the original schedule with completion for Summer 2014 and, as promised, active construction will not impact businesses during the holiday retail season.”

Remaining works may continue through November, including street furniture installation and plantings. Temporary ramps at crosswalks and along the parking pads are in place until top lift paving is completed next spring.

The truck route will be reinstated on Ellis Street until the planned improvements are made to Gordon Drive in 2014.

Motorists and bike riders will now encounter the new shared lane markings or “sharrows” on Bernard Avenue.

These markings indicate that a cyclist may ride in the traffic lane and assists them in correct positioning between moving vehicles and parallel parked cars.

Motorists are urged to drive carefully and be aware of all signage, particularly at St. Paul and Pandosy.

“This is actually a great time of year for residents to see and experience all the public and private investment that is happening in our downtown,” says Berry.

“Walk and shop along Bernard’s widened sidewalks, check out the new public pier and marina, skate at Stuart Park and watch the development of the new yacht clubhouse expansion.”

Construction of the final phase of the Bernard Avenue revitalization is scheduled for Spring 2014, when the street will be closed to traffic from Pandosy to Ellis streets and be completed in June 2014.

The Pandosy to Ellis portion was slated to be done this fall, however, the current lockout of FortisBC employees meant that section had to be delayed.

The City of Kelowna thanks residents, businesses and motorists for their patience while construction was taking place.

Visit kelowna.ca/cityprojects for the most up-to-date information and to learn more about the many projects happening downtown.



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