Steve Rant - City Press Release on Mackenzie Avenue Rehab Project

This morning, I received a press release warning City residents' about possible delays as the Mackenzie Avenue Rehab Project proceeds including the replacement of water pipes that are beneath Mackenzie Avenue. No problem there, except they give no dates which I think is problematic at best because if you intend to make this kind of announcement, then you should include a timeline when this work will begin and end so people/business can plan their schedules around this project, otherwise I see this as nothing less than a "good news" announcement, or as some like to call these press release - "fluff, and nothing else"

However, in order to please those on Council including Councillor Walters and Zacharias, here is the entire press release so you can judge for yourself:

The City of Williams Lake will be resurfacing Mackenzie Avenue from the intersection of Highway 97 North to Highway 97 South. To avoid future damage to the asphalt road surface from water main repairs, the City will be replacing older water services from Comer Street South along Mackenzie Avenue to Highway 97 prior to starting the road resurfacing project.
During these works, traffic patterns may be affected including the closure of certain sections along Mackenzie Avenue with traffic being detoured.

Councilor Sue Zacharias who holds the Public Works Portfolio states, “The work that we are doing now of replacing these older type water services will help mitigate potential water leaks in the future. The City appreciates that there may be an inconvenience to businesses and traffic however it is necessary to ensure that the water system is in good repair prior to the resurfacing of Mackenzie Avenue.”

The City will attempt to keep at least one lane of traffic open at all times on Mackenzie Avenue. However, there may be a need to close an entire block for safety reasons. All traffic detours or lane closures will be directed by flag persons and the City is requesting extra care and attention from motorists.

The City will provide as much notice as possible to affected businesses and property owners along Mackenzie Avenue and apologizes in advance for any inconveniences this project may cause.