Roadwork along Victoria Road South in Summerland, B.C. was delayed due to a lack of permission from FortisBC, causing a halt in the project that was originally slated to be completed in 2023. Summerland’s Mayor Doug Holmes stated that any work within 10 meters of a gas main requires permission from FortisBC, and the delay in approvals has disrupted the district’s plans. This delay also poses a safety concern, as an incident involving a youth who fell while riding their bike on the unfinished pathway required an ambulance to be called.
FortisBC confirmed that a permit for the project was issued to the District of Summerland on Wednesday, May 1, after the necessary information to support the permit was provided to them. Moving forward, Mayor Holmes expressed a desire to go over the entire capital plan with FortisBC and possibly receive pre-approval to avoid future delays. He emphasized the importance of building a better relationship with FortisBC to prevent similar issues from arising in the future. With the approval now in place, roadwork can resume as soon as crews are available.
The district of Summerland had planned to repave the entire road along Victoria Road South last year, but delays caused by the lack of approval from FortisBC have pushed the project back. This delay has also raised concerns about future projects, as the district will have to undergo a similar process for three other major projects this year. It is crucial for the district to establish a more efficient process for obtaining approvals to prevent further delays and ensure the safety of residents in the area.
Mayor Holmes emphasized the need for a smoother approval process with FortisBC to avoid future delays and ensure that roadwork projects are completed in a timely manner. The incident involving a youth falling while riding their bike on the unfinished pathway highlights the safety risks associated with delays in completing infrastructure projects. By working closely with FortisBC and seeking pre-approval for future projects, the district of Summerland aims to improve their relationship with the utility company and prevent similar issues from occurring again.
FortisBC issued a permit for the roadwork project in Summerland after receiving the necessary information to support the permit, allowing the district to proceed with the planned roadwork along Victoria Road South. The district now has the green light to begin the roadwork as soon as crews are available. By addressing the approval process with FortisBC and establishing a better relationship, the district of Summerland hopes to prevent similar delays in future infrastructure projects and ensure the safety of residents in the area.
In conclusion, the delay in roadwork along Victoria Road South in Summerland, B.C. caused by a lack of approval from FortisBC has raised concerns about future projects and safety in the area. By working closely with FortisBC and seeking pre-approval for future projects, the district aims to prevent delays and ensure that roadwork projects are completed in a timely manner. With the permit now in place, the district can proceed with the roadwork and address any safety concerns that may arise during the construction process.
