CLEARWATER- A new roundabout at the junction of Highway 5 and Clearwater Valley Road is now complete and open to traffic, improving safety for highway travelers and pedestrians, as well as enhancing the gateway to the popular Wells Gray Provincial Park.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure project, worth $3.1 million, replaces the old intersection and reduces the potential for serious crashes for traffic using the corridor. While the roundabout calms traffic, it also includes signs that highlight the natural splendor that can be found in nearby Wells Gray Provincial Park. Locals and tourists will be able to safely turn from the highway to the local businesses and the park access road, especially during the busy summer period.
The roundabout also gives visitors better access to the Wells Gray Information Centre.
“Wells Gray Provincial Park is a world-class recreation destination, and this roundabout provides better access and signage to attract visitors,” says Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Terry Lake. “These improvements also address the safety concerns brought forward by local leaders and I thank them for their input on this project, which was a community effort.”
The Yellowhead Highway 5 is a major north-south route linking BC with Alberta. The roundabout was also specifically designed to accommodate the large commercial vehicles that use the Highway 5 corridor, including extraordinary wide loads.
Below: An improved sign stands in the center of the roundabout, advising motorists that this is the Gateway to Wells Gray Park. A number of local residents complained that an earlier version was too difficult to read and said only Wells Gray, not Wells Gray Provincial Park.
