The new $85 million McKenzie interchange at the Trans Canada Highway will be built as a partial cloverleaf, Transportation Minister Todd Stone announced today.
Technical analysis shows that the partial cloverleaf will operate more safely and efficiently than other option – the diamond interchange.
“The partial cloverleaf reduces the chances of collisions and, as such, is expected to provide $4 million in additional safety benefits over the other options in just the first 20 years. As well, with no stop lights for vehicles turning left onto McKenzie, travel will be more efficient for traffic now and for expected traffic volume in the future,” according to the released statement.
The province also said the design improves access and safety for cyclists, pedestrians and transit users.
It provides a separated route for a wider Galloping Goose Trail with a new path over the highway and McKenzie Avenue, avoiding the lights and vehicle traffic. The project will also include bus lanes, transit priority signals, and improved connections to bus stops.
An open house is scheduled for May 18 to showcase the final plan at St. Joseph the Worker Parish Hall, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Construction is scheduled to start this fall and the entire project is expected to be completed in 2018.
