The City of Terrace’s road projects challenges come at a time when it is beginning to look for a new engineering and public works director. Jonathan Lambert, hired in April of 2021, has submitted his resignation effective July 8.
He has, however, laid the groundwork for a continuing public works program and he also came up with an innovative way to deal with problematic Lanfear Hill.
The city has wanted for years to do a complete rebuild of the roadway and sidewalk but has been continually rebuffed in applying for senior government grants to finance a project that would be in excess of $10 million.
Lambert suggested moving the sidewalk from the downward slope side of the road to the other side, something that would permit a wider and more appropriate sidewalk and permit a widening of the road itself.
A more detailed engineering study that would lead to putting the project out to tender has been approved.
Lambert also encouraged the provincial highways ministry to widen the sidewalks on its bridges in the area, chiefly the Little bridges leading into Terrace from the east, the Sande Overpass and the Kalum River Bridge.
The sidewalks are narrow and the marked portion of the roadway meant for cyclists is also narrow. Railings also tend to be low for cyclist comfort.
A series of bump outs is being added to old Skeena Bridge sidewalk as part of a major rehabilitation project but the ministry says it has no other plans for wider sidewalks on its other bridges here.