A pedestrian overpass project near Quw’ustun Secondary School is facing another round of delays, but North Cowichan mayor Rob Douglas says it’s still on the province’s radar.
According to Douglas, the project would’ve provided a safe crossing over the Trans-Canada Highway between Beverly Street and James Street, and in the meantime the province will opt for another option until the overpass is more feasible.
“The province is planning to begin the construction of a raised centre median along the highway from James Street to Beverly Street starting this summer,” he says. “The work is anticipated to be completed by spring of 2026, but exact dates are unknown.
“The median will replace the existing two-way left turn lanes at the commercial driveways and restrict these to right turn movements only.”
Douglas says along with the raised median there will be other safety precautions, and beautification measures taken.
“A metal fence is proposed to be installed to prevent jaywalking and direct pedestrians to the adjacent signalized crosswalks at Beverly Street and at James Street,” he says. “The proposed media will include new trees for shade and beautification.”
He adds, “the existing landscaping will be replaced by a concrete surface for new, healthier trees.”
He says the overpass would be ideal to help provide a safe passage for pedestrians, and the new proposal isn’t ideal it’s still a step in the right direction.
There has been no indication as to when construction on the overpass will commence.
