City wants feedback on Casorso active transportation corridor

Kelowna city staff are looking for feedback on a new active transportation corridor (ATC).

The route will run along Casorso Road, between K.L.O. and Barrera Road.

Until Jan. 10, people are encouraged to visit the Get Involved website to provide input on a proposed design.

The new ATC will fill a key gap in the continuous north-south corridor linking downtown and Lower Mission, via Ethel and other routes.

A city report said the protected bike lanes and sidewalk improvements will enhance safety and mobility between major destinations like Okanagan College, Casorso Elementary School, and Pandosy Urban Centre.

“The city aims to make walking and biking safe, convenient, and practical modes of travel,” the report reads. “Active transportation corridors increase the number of people walking and biking by providing comfortable and safe connections between key destinations for bicyclists of all ages and abilities.”

The concept as it stands will include one-way protected bike lanes on both side of the street, similar to Ethel. Raised concreate and on-street parking will separate cyclists from drivers.

Parking on both sides of the street will be maintained in front of Casorso Elementary School.

Following public engagement, the project will move on to detailed design, with construction from K.L.O. to Lanfranco Road expected to begin later in 2022. The remaining stretch is slated for construction between 2023 and 2025.