A large roundabout at the intersection of Victoria Road South and Prairie Valley Road — the third for the community — is now completed.
The roundabout was officially opened on Thursday morning.
“We’ve been waiting a long time for this day to come,” said Mayor Janice Perrino.
The cost of the project was $3.34 million. This cost included $600,000 from the Gas Tax Fund and just over $54,000 from the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia.
The rest of the cost came through municipal revenues.
Along with the roundabout, work was done to provide flood protection for the area.
MP Dan Albas said the gas tax funding program helped to cover the costs of the work.
“We know that it’s going to help local residents,” he said.
The federal gas tax fund provides long-term funding for municipalities for infrastructure projects.
In British Columbia, the funding is administered by the Union of British Columbia Municipalities, in collaboration with the provincial and federal governments.
MLA Dan Ashton said the project was the result of teamwork and cooperation between various levels of government.
“If doesn’t happen without everyone working together,” he said.
Perrino thanked the residents, especially those who live near the intersection, for their patience during the construction.
“I am amazed with how few complaints we had,” she said.
The roundabout is expected to reduce congestion at the intersection.
In the past, the four-way stop at Victoria Road South and Prairie Valley Road was busy, especially in the mornings.
“This project will reduce congestion on the busiest corridor through Summerland,” Perrino said.
“Current conflicts between pedestrians, school children, vehicular and commercial traffic have been a significant concern to council.”