BC Hydro says Keenleyside to stay closed to motorists
By Contributor
Ed Note: The following is a press release issued by BC Hydro:
Over the past several months, we’ve met with local residents, elected officials and key stakeholders to discuss the safety concerns related to providing access across the Hugh L. Keenleyside Dam. An open house and discussion was held at the Castlegar & District Community Complex on February 11, 2016 that also generated a number of issues and options for our consideration.
We have now completed our review of all the potential options for access across the dam that we heard through all of our discussions, as well as through phone calls and emails.
1. We have concluded that there is no option available to make the dam deck safe for motorized traffic, and that allowing continued access to vehicles is a high risk activity that could result in someone being seriously hurt. This level of risk is unacceptable and entirely preventable as there is an alternate route available via the Robson Bridge.
2. Based on a suggestion we received at the public meeting we’ve identified an opportunity to provide access for cyclists and pedestrians during special events. We will be working to develop guidelines for community use.
3. We will also continue to work with local government and the community over the next few months to look at how we can provide some community benefits for the loss of vehicle access across the dam. We would welcome your input on this opportunity; and
4. We will also continue to maintain access to the navigational lock through the south side of the facility.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at 250-365-4565 or by email at maryanne.coules@bchydro.com if you have any questions or feedback. We understand how important this facility is to the community and we appreciate everyone’s patience as we work through these issues.
Sincerely,
Mary Anne Coules
Stakeholder Engagement Advisor
BC Hydro
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