Flood mitigation work in Vernon has taken a significant step forward with the completion of the 43rd Street Vernon Creek Crossing project. This important infrastructure upgrade enhances flood protection while improving transportation connectivity in the region.
The 43rd Street crossing project replaced the crossing at 43rd Street and 24th Avenue to reduce flood risks and protect the Vernon Water Reclamation Centre (VWRC) and nearby properties. A new multi-use pathway was built, linking Okanagan Avenue to Okanagan Landing Road, while stormwater management was enhanced through upgrades to the storm outlet from Tassie Creek. The project also restored natural spawning habitats and implemented a riparian replanting plan to support native fish species like Kokanee, Trout, and Sockeye salmon.
The $5.03 million project was funded with $2,600,116 million from the City of Vernon’s infrastructure reserves and development cost charges, $1,326,240 from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program Green Stream - Adaptation, Resilience & Disaster Mitigation (ARDM) program, and $1,105,089 from the Government of British Columbia.
“This project represents a critical step forward in the City’s flood mitigation strategy,” said Mayor Victor Cumming. “With funding support from the federal and provincial governments, we’ve been able to complete this important work, ensuring improved flood protection for vital infrastructure while enhancing transportation routes for residents.”
“The completion of this project will better protect people in Vernon and critical local infrastructure from the impacts of flooding,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “Together with the federal government and the City of Vernon, we are strengthening the community’s defences against climate-related emergencies so everyone can feel safer.”
The City of Vernon’s Detailed Flood Mapping, Risk Analysis and Mitigation Study ca be viewed online at www.vernon.ca/floodstory.
Traffic has resumed across the newly completed 43rd Street bridge, however, periodic lane closures may still occur for final landscaping work.
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