One of Nanaimo's busiest intersections will be receiving street improvements this month as part of the Midtown Gateway project, prompting the city to recommend commuters to choose alternate routes where possible.
Work will be taking place around the intersection of Bowen Road and Northfield Road from May 5-23, with changes including traffic signal upgrades, road resurfacing and safety improvements. During the work, drivers, cyclists and pedestrians are warned to expect traffic disruptions and detours.
In a press release, Bill Sims, the city's general manager of engineering and public works, said that while construction on major roads is always inconvenient, the upgrades will be a "major improvement when finished."
"This is a good opportunity to try the new Boxwood Road extension and roundabout," Sims said. "Whichever way you detour, thanks for your patience, Nanaimo."
From May 5-11, westbound lanes toward the Nanaimo Parkway on Northfield Road will be closed at Bowen Road. Turns will not be available from eastbound Northfield Road onto Bowen Road.
From May 12-16, Northfield Road will be closed in both directions between Bowen Road and Boxwood Road and there will be no left turns from southbound Bowen Road onto Northfield Road.
From May 17-19, the intersection will temporarily open for the Victoria Day long weekend, but the city recommends commuters watch for temporary road conditions or lane closures.
From May 20-23, lanes eastbound toward Departure Bay on Northfield Road will be closed between Boxwood Road and Bowen Road. No left turns will be allowed westbound from Northfield Road onto Bowen Road, or left turns southbound from Bowen Road onto Northfield Road.
All businesses remain open and accessible during construction and commuters are told to expect more disruptions, night work and temporary closures over the coming months.
