Public to have say in BC highway speed-limit review

The government of B.C. is reviewing speed limits on longer stretches of provincial highways between communities, and will be seeking public input starting this November as part of the process.

Public input, along with information gathered through a technical review of provincial highways, will be considered to identify areas where speed-limit changes would be appropriate.

The initial technical review is already underway. This work includes an evaluation of the latest research from around the world, as well as specific characteristics of B.C. highways, such as travel speed, safety history and the volume and mix of traffic.

Public engagement is an important part of the speed-limit review, and British Columbians will be able to have their say on rural highway speed limits at public forums in communities around the province, as well as through social media and online feedback. Forums will be held in Kamloops, Chilliwack, Nanaimo, Prince George, Dawson Creek, Vancouver, Kelowna and Cranbrook starting in November, with additional communities added as necessary.

At the same time, government will be seeking public input as it reviews how to reduce the risk of wildlife-related crashes on rural provincial highways, and reviews how to best ensure the safe movement of slower vehicles.

The ministry will also be seeking input from the Union of B.C. Municipalities, ICBC, police and other key stakeholders. Practical recommendations from this review and a strategy for implementation will be ready in early spring 2014.