Highland Road - the only link between Juniper Ridge and Valleyview - is set for reconstruction later this year at a cost of just over $5 per year to the average homeowner.
(JENNIFER STAHN / iNFOnews.ca)
April 15, 2013 - 11:07 AM
The City of Kamloops is again using an alternative process to approve the borrowing of $6.3-million for two projects that will cost homeowners an average of just under $12 per year more on their tax bill.
Council will be looking at approving the installation of 3 km of sanitary force main along Mission Flats Road and reconstruction and widening of the 2.2-km stretch of Highland Drive between Valleyview Drive and Qu'appelle Boulevard.
A public information session held in early March for the $5.9 million Highland Drive project attracted 100 residents in support of the project, though there were many questions and concerns brought to the attention of city staff.
Parking areas for those utilizing the many trails in and around the silt cliffs was the main concern raised, and at the request of council staff has provided several options should council wish to address the parking concern. The addition of parking areas would add to the overall cost of the project, between an estimated $50,000 and $300,000 depending on the option chosen.
The project will see Highland Drive widened to accommodate two lanes heading in and one lane coming out of Juniper Ridge as well as a multi-use path for cyclists and pedestrians.
The sanitary force main will facilitate the movement of sewage from the south shore of Kamloops to the sewage treatment centre.
If approved a total of $2,979,500 would be borrowed for the sanitary force main project and $3,342,112 for Highland Drive over a maximum of 15 years.
The alternative approval process allows council to approve projects without holding public hearings by giving the public an opportunity to oppose the proposal through a designated form. If less than 10 per cent of electors – 6,886 in Kamloops - oppose the project council is given the authority to approve the project. No opposition for either of the projects was filed with the city.
To contact a reporter for this story, email jstahn@infotelnews.ca or call (250) 819-3723.
News from © iNFOnews, 2013