‘Performance expectations’ not met in West Kelowna on Highway 97: Ministry of Transportation
Global News
The Ministry of Transportation said AIM Roads did not meet the level of standards set by the ministry, Monday morning on Highway 97 in West Kelowna.
Winter conditions have finally arrived in the Central Okanagan, with the first major snowfall having arrived Sunday night.
Snow and freezing temperatures then made for a chaotic Monday morning, with major delays along Highway 97 in West Kelowna.
While AIM Roads is the company contracted to clear Highway 97 and Westside Road, the company declined an interview regarding the road conditions and forwarded the interview request to the Ministry of Transportation.
The Ministry of Transportation said in an email, “During the recent snow event, the ministry found, in most areas, the contractor was meeting requirements. However, it was noted specifically in the West Kelowna area that they did not meet the ministry’s standards.
“When a contractor does not meet the ministry’s performance expectations, the contractor is required to determine the root causes and create an action plan to ensure it does not occur again.
“Ministry staff are working closely with the contractor to ensure concrete actions are taken and the contractor is able to meet contract specifications in all areas going forward.”
Okanagan residents weren’t the only ones severely impacted by the slippery road conditions. Kelowna Cabs felt the effects of the traffic jam as well.
“The Westbank traffic from the bridge backed up down to Bartley Road pretty much,” said Roy Paulson, a Kelowna cab driver.