Posted: Oct 4, 2013 03:17 PM | Last Updated: Oct 4, 2013 03:17 PM
KAMLOOPS — The B.C. government wants to know what you think about the speed limits on some provincial highways so it will be seeking public input starting in November to get answers.
According to the British Columbia Trucking Association (BCTA) that information, along with data gathered through a technical review of the roads, will help identify areas where speed-limit changes would be appropriate.
The technical review is already underway.
That includes research from around the world, as well as specific assessments characteristics of B.C. highways, such as travel speed, safety history and the volume and mix of traffic.
Later, public forums will be held in Kamloops, Chilliwack, Nanaimo, Prince George, Dawson Creek, Vancouver, Kelowna and Cranbrook starting in November. More communities will be added if the government deems it necessary. Residents will also be invited to give input via social media and online feedback channels.
At the same time, government will be seeking public input as it reviews how to reduce the risk of wildlife-related crashes on rural provincial highways, and reviews how to best ensure the safe movement of slower vehicles.
The ministry will also be seeking input from the Union of B.C. Municipalities, ICBC, police and other key stakeholders. Practical recommendations from this review and a strategy for implementation will be ready in early spring 2014.
Says Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone:
"This review will build on the good work done on speed limits over the years by involving the public in the discussion. We want to ensure those traveling on our highways can do so as safely and efficiently as possible, and we're interested in what British Columbians have to say as our review of speed limits and other important safety issues moves forward."
