Water improvement work will bring road closures

Starting Wednesday Aug. 28, a section of East Kelowna Road will close to accommodate installation of a water distribution line.

It’s part of the first phase of Kelowna Integrated Water Project.

The first section, between KLO and Neid Roads, will close for about two weeks, followed by East Kelowna Road being closed between Neid Road and Reid Road for another two weeks.

“During both closures, a detour will be in place along McCulloch, Rose, Pooley and Reid roads. Within the construction zones, access will be maintained at all times for residents, businesses and their customers, and the Kelowna Montessori School,” said a City of Kelowna news release.

To ensure local orchards and farms have a smooth surface to transport their produce, one smooth vehicle lane will be maintained through the work zone at all times.

“For the safety of the public and work crews, please follow signs and directions of traffic safety personnel, as every effort will be made to minimize disruptions. People riding bikes are also encouraged to avoid active construction areas due to uneven road surfaces. Motorists will continue to experience traffic delays and are urged to give themselves extra time or use alternate routes,” added the release.

The $86-million Phase 1 Integrated Water Project is expected to be complete by 2021 and will bring clean drinking water to more than 2,000 Southeast Kelowna households and a sustainable water supply to South Mission agriculture.