A $22.9-million project to refurbish a section of Fulford-Ganges Road on Salt Spring Island will begin in September, the Ministry of Transportation says.
The road base will be rebuilt for a 1.6-kilometre section of the two-lane route from Seaview Avenue to Cranberry Road, and the road will be resurfaced and graded to add paved shoulders on both sides of the road.
Single-lane-alternating traffic will be in effect while work is going on, and motorists should expect delays up to 20 minutes, the ministry said.
The posted speed will be reduced to 30 kilometres per hour from 50 km/h during construction.
Any necessary road closures will include temporary detours, and no road closures will be in effect within 20 minutes of a ferry arrival at Fulford Harbour, the ministry said.
It said road contractor will avoid work during peak travel times to minimize traffic disruption where possible.
The ministry said the project, which is expected to be completed by next summer, will improve safety and sightlines for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists.
It includes new pavement markings, crosswalks, a speed-reader board and new refuge areas.
A new storm-sewer drainage system will be installed along the road section being upgraded, as well as a staging area to install a large culvert at Cranberry Road to reduce the risk of flood and road damage.
Planning for the project included consultation with such stakeholders as the Salt Spring Island Local Trust Committee on project planning and environmental considerations, the ministry said.
