Discuss the options for the lake-to-lake cycling route

The City is ready to share the options for the lake-to-lake cycling route. A technical review has been completed and a report detailing the options is now posted at shapeyourcitypenticton.ca. Paper copies are also available at City Hall.

“Our consultants reviewed a number of possible streets to identify options that meet the technical and safety requirements of an ‘all ages and abilities’ cycling route,” says City Engineer Ian Chapman.

“We’ve got a good starting point for our discussions with the community and are looking forward to hearing what residents and businesses think about the route options proposed for affected neighborhoods.”

The review evaluated the roads suggested in the 2012 Cycling Plan Update as well as additional nearby roads that may be suitable for an ‘all ages and abilities’ route. Major roads such as Main Street south of Eckhardt Ave and Skaha Lake Road were not considered due to the number of driveways and intersections which would reduce the level of protection for cyclists. The options identified in the review were vetted with local traffic safety experts and stakeholders representing ICBC, BC Transit, RCMP, the business community and local cyclists and the City is now ready to discuss them with residents.

“Through the Pedal Penticton event this summer, a thousand people let us know how important it is to provide a safe cycling route through the city,” says Mayor John Vassilaki. “We hope to see this momentum continue and that people will take advantage of the opportunities to get involved and discuss the options for what is sure to be a signature amenity for our city.”

Citizens will have their first chance to discuss the lake-to-lake route options at the 3 ‘Hot’ Topics open houses in early December. On Dec. 4 between 3 pm and 7 pm at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre and Dec. 5 at the same time at the Penticton Seniors’ Drop-in Centre, staff will be on hand to discuss work on the Lake-to-Lake Cycling Route, the Skaha Lake Park East Plan, and the 2020-2024 Business and Financial Plans. Feedback on the lake-to-lake route options will be collected during the open houses and online starting Nov. 28 through to Dec. 19.

The City has also created a flyer to notify residents and businesses along the possible routes about the work and opportunities to get involved. The flyer will be mailed out to approximately 6,000 properties in the city. Copies are also available at City Hall and electronically through www.shapeyourcitypenticton.ca.