Construction is now underway on phase 2 of a new multi-use pathway along Government Street in 亚洲天堂 Lake.
The pathway was first identified in the Village鈥檚 2009 Active Transportation Plan as a solution to ongoing conflicts between the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles along Government Street and Gilgan Drive. With Highway 16 becoming busier, the corridor has become an important alternative route for those travelling on foot or by bike. However, portions of the route remain unpaved and are used for overflow and truck parking, limiting pedestrian safety.
Phase 2 involves realigning Government Street with Gilgan Road to create a continuous through-road and redesigning the intersection at 3rd Avenue into a T-style layout with a stop sign. Water valve testing is also included to assess underground infrastructure and ensure long-term asset management.
鈥淭he realignment addresses existing roadway inefficiencies, enhances sight lines and intersections, and supports safer, more efficient traffic flow,鈥� Village staff said in an email outlining the project. They noted the project aims to create a more connected and accessible community by improving infrastructure for all modes of transportation.
The new pathway will provide a continuous, safer connection between several high-traffic destinations, including Lakes District Secondary School, the College of New Caledonia, the T鈥檚il Kaz Koh offices, the public library, and the local walking track. During summer sports events, overflow parking has often blocked pedestrian access鈥攁n issue the project will address by redirecting vehicles to the larger College of New Caledonia parking lot and improving surrounding sidewalk and crosswalk infrastructure.
Granite Construction was awarded the contract after submitting the lowest of three bids at $954,604.46. The approved contract includes a $100,000 contingency but does not include paving, which will be tendered separately. The total project budget is $1.311 million, funded through a mix of municipal resources and grants, including $500,000 from the federal Active Transportation Fund, $20,000 earmarked for flashing crosswalk lights, and $771,000 from the Village鈥檚 Resource Benefits Alliance reserve.
Construction began in mid-May and is scheduled for completion by September 2025
