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Roundabout now open in downtown Kimberley
The new roundabout at the intersection of Kimberley Avenue, Ross Street and Spokane Street is now open to traffic, marking an important milestone in the Kimberley Avenue Infrastructure Project.
While the new roundabout is the most visible change, much of the work took place underground.
The primary purpose of the project was to replace and upgrade aging water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure beneath Kimberley Avenue. Once that work was complete, the roadway needed to be rebuilt, creating an opportunity to improve the intersection at the same time.
The addition of the roundabout represented a relatively minor portion of the overall project compared with the underground infrastructure and road reconstruction required.
The intersection uses a mini-roundabout design, which is intentionally smaller than a conventional roundabout. The centre island is designed so larger and oversized vehicles can travel over it when necessary, while regular passenger vehicles travel around it. Its smaller footprint also helps slow vehicle speeds through the intersection and encourages more cautious movement.
Improvements were also made above ground to create a safer and more accessible connection for pedestrians travelling through the area. Active transportation features, including a designated bike lane, have been incorporated into the project to better accommodate people walking, cycling and using other forms of active transportation.
As drivers become familiar with the new configuration, the most important thing is to slow down when approaching the intersection, enter the roundabout when it is safe to do so and proceed carefully through it.
Like any new traffic pattern, it may take some time for everyone to become comfortable navigating the intersection.
The roundabout has also been designed with winter operations in mind. City crews responsible for snow removal are trained to maintain the roadway, and snow clearing will include the full travelled portion of the intersection.
The city thanks residents, businesses and visitors for their patience throughout construction and encourages drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to take a little extra care as everyone becomes familiar with the new intersection.
City of Kimberley image
City of Kimberley
