The Vernon Creek Crossing flood mitigation work has finished and the crossing at 43rd Street has reopened. (photo by Liam Verster/Vernon Matters Staff)

By Liam Verster

Creek Crossing Project Wrapped Up

Vernon Creek Crossing project complete, road reopen

Dec 2, 2024 | 3:14 PM

The Vernon Creek Crossing project has wrapped up.

The flood mitigation work at the crossing on 43rd Street began in June, but the work was finished and the road reopened Monday, Dec. 2.

The work was intended to reduce flood risks and protect the Vernon Water Reclamation Centre and other area properties, including the Vernon Transit and HandyDart facility.

The work also including building a new multi-use pathway to connect Okanagan Avenue with Okanagan Landing Road, enhancing stormwater management through upgrades to the Tassie Creek storm outlet, and improving natural spawning habitats for native fish species with a riparian replanting plan.

“This project represents a critical step forward in the City’s flood mitigation strategy,” Mayor Victor Cumming, said.

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“With funding support from the federal and provincial governments, we’ve been able to complete this important work, ensuring improved flood protection for vital infrastructure while enhancing transportation routes for residents.”

Vernon Creek at the 43rd Street Crossing after the flood mitigation work had been completed (photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)

The project cost $5.03-million and was mainly funded by the City, which contributed $2,600,116 through the infrastructure reserves and development cost charges. The project was also supported with a $1,326,240 grant from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program Green Stream – Adaption, Resilience and Disaster Mitigation program, in addition to another $1,105,089 from the B.C. Government.

“The completion of this project will better protect people in Vernon and critical local infrastructure from the impacts of flooding,” Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, said.

“Together with the federal government and the City of Vernon, we are strengthening the community’s defences against climate-related emergencies so everyone can feel safer.”

The city noted that while the road reopened Monday, there could be periodic closures to accomodate future landscaping work.