Pirjo Raits
Sooke News Mirror
It’s taken the whole length of the last two terms on council to get final approvals for a roundabout in Sooke.
The roundabout, which will cost an estimated $700,000 will be located across from the entrance to Evergreen Plaza on what was known as Brownsey Boulevard. Lately it was informally called Waterview Street and is beside the site for the new Royal Bank building.
Brownsey Boulevard’s name came from a pioneering family in Sooke who operated a store at the intersection. The name was recommended by the Sooke Region Historical Society but hadn’t been used, although it is the official name.
Construction of the roundabout will be cost-shared between the Government of B.C. and the District of Sooke. Plans are currently underway, with final project details expected in the spring of 2015.
The council of 2008-2011 started the process and the current council worked on acquiring the property needed for the roundabout.
The cost, said Mayor Wendal Milne would be broken down with $300,000 coming from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure along with another $130,000 to allow for sidewalk improvements. The District of Sooke will be responsible for the remainder, approximately $270,000. The District of Sooke bore the cost of purchasing the property required to build the roundabout.
“By working together with the Province, we will be undertaking an exciting joint infrastructure project to improve all methods of travel through the Town Centre on Highway 14. The roundabout supports our goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions through reduced vehicle idling and also provides safer pedestrian travel and encourages the use of alternative transportation such as cycling and walking. This project will make a tremendous difference to the health and sustainability of the community,” said Milne.
Milne also credited Councillor Rick Kasper with being instrumental in the finalizing of the partnership.
“The ministry understands the importance of the Highway 14 corridor to commuters, residents and tourists. Our partnership with the District of Sooke has allowed us to improve the safety of this key intersection for all drivers, cyclists and pedestrians moving in, through and around the community,” said Todd Stone, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.