Expect detours at Penticton bridge construction project

PENTICTON – Construction of a new bridge over the Okanagan River channel in Penticton is said to be on schedule and about halfway complete.

“To see the bridge taking shape is a big inspiration for everyone. It’s a 20 year dream finally taking true form in steel and concrete,”says Penticton Indian Band Chief Jonathan Kruger in a news release.

The band is overseeing construction of the Satikw Crossing bridge which will open up to development about 60 hectares of band member land across the river from Highway 97 and adjacent to the airport.

“This is some of the most prime development land in the region,” says Kruger. “Opening it up for our residents to create new business opportunities and bring more jobs here is part of our long-term vision for this community.”

The last of the 36 concrete girders are being installed over the channel this week.

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The construction schedule calls for the Green Avenue intersection to be closed around the end of June resulting in detours.

But the project will not impede the thousands of people who float the channel during the summer.

“We planned our construction schedule to be good neighbours and ensure that everyone can enjoy the river channel and tourist traffic can flow easily during this important tourism business period for all of us,” says Kruger.

The bridge is expected to be completed in October.