TERRACE, BC: The roundabout at the intersection of highways 16 and 37 between Terrace and Thornhill is officially complete.

“Investing in modern transportation infrastructure is essential to build strong and well-connected communities and to support local economies,” said Patrick Weiler, MP for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, on behalf of Catherine McKenna, federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “The investments we’re making with our partners in projects like this new roundabout at the Highway 16/37 intersection in Terrace are improving driver safety and making it easier for people to get around.”

Highway 37 southbound provides a key connection from Terrace to Kitimat and connects with Highway 16, a primary transportation corridor from Prince Rupert to the Alberta border.

B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure determined the intersection, previously a four-way stop, needed an upgrade to support increasing traffic volumes along the highways.

“This project is proof of our government’s commitment to providing infrastructure that will enhance safety, reduce commute times and create jobs,” said Claire Trevena, B.C.’s Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “Roundabouts are very important for intersections like this. They allow more vehicles to move through, improve safety and reduce the amount of idling and air pollution.”

Roundabouts are a common intersection design that can reduce crashes by 35%, while decreasing traffic queues and improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists. The roundabout design was selected following First Nations, stakeholder and public consultation.

“I have heard a number of positive comments about the roundabout at the Highway 16/37 intersection,” said Carol Leclerc, mayor, City of Terrace. “It presented a bit of a learning curve for some folks at first, but generally speaking, people have been surprised by how easy it is to navigate and how smoothly traffic flows. Even those who were a bit apprehensive about using the roundabout seem to like it. I think it is a great addition to our local highways.”

The $9.3-million project was funded through a Government of Canada investment of $1.7 million, with $7.6 million from the Government of B.C.

The federal contribution is part of the larger $16.1-million Highway 16 Passing Lanes project under the New Building Canada Fund’s Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component-National and Regional Projects.

Written and released by BC Government