Kal Lake Road shutdown?

Photo: City of Vernon

Proposed multi-use path along Kal Lake Road.

Kalamalka Lake Road could be shut down to traffic for some time this year in order for upgrades to be carried out, including construction of a multi-use path that could be used by cyclists travelling on the proposed Okanagan Rail Trail.

”There is a resident that has a business along that road who relies primarily on the summer, their busiest time is the summer,” said Coun. Brian Quiring, who is hoping the road won't close during July and August. “Maybe it won't be during the summer. Maybe they'll close it during the fall or before the summer.”

The road is used by many tourists heading to Kal Lake beach.

Quiring said he was pleased Vernon city staff were co-ordinating with businesses along the route, which stretches from Highway 6 south to the Alpine Centre.

During a report to council on Monday, infrastructure manager Mark Dowhaniuk said local businesses were being asked when they would prefer two-way traffic and when they could cope with a closure.

No final decisions had been made, Dowhaniuk said.

“We've heard from the (Vernon Golf and Country Club),” said Dowhaniuk. “We've heard from a number of businesses. We're going door-to-door to speak with the rest.”