KELOWNA - Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament for Kelowna-Lake Country has been notified that approval has been given by the federal government to reduce the lift span schedule of the Okanagan Bridge.

Between April 1 and October 31st the lift schedule will be reduced from 8 lift times to 4 during weekdays.  The lift span will be raised at 10:00, 13:00, 19:00, and 21:00 hours.  On weekends and Statutory holidays 5 lift times will be available at 10:00, 13:00, 15:00, 19:00, and 21:00 hours.

“Constituents were very concerned by the dangers posed when the bridge failed to open causing potential problems for emergency service access as well as serious delays in traffic.  They will be glad to know that the issue has been successfully resolved and the potential negative impact of lift span failure has been mitigated,” said Cannan.

Cannan said certain procedures had to be followed for the approval because Okanagan Lake falls under the protection of the Navigable Waters Act but noted that the cooperation of all parties involved made sure that the matter was dealt with efficiently.

“We had outstanding cooperation from all parties,” he said.  “I want to acknowledge both the federal and provincial governments, our yacht clubs in the Okanagan as well as the hard work of Jeff Wiseman from the provincial Ministry of Transport for their efforts. 

“All parties worked together in the best interests of the residents and as a result we have reduced the lift span schedule in time for spring,” said Cannan.  “Fortunately this is the last year for the old bridge.  I think residents will be relieved when the new bridge opens next year.”

For more information contact Ron @ 250-470-5075