#SignalizedIntersection

[newsbites]

News from Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada, 10 July

The Bruce Ave., Fifth St. intersection in Nanaimo is experiencing increased traffic and safety concerns, leading to the need for better control and infrastructure improvements.

A roundabout was considered but not feasible due to space constraints, so the city opted for a signalized intersection that can accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles.

The project includes left turn bays on all approaches, with the possibility of adding dedicated green turn arrows in the future if necessary.

2. The strike at British Columbia's ports has entered its second week, leading to a rally in Vancouver in support of the workers.

International labour leaders will join the rally to call for a negotiated contract settlement with the BC Maritime Employers Association.

The strike, involving over 7,400 workers at 30+ ports, was prompted by issues such as pay, maintenance work, contracting out, and automation.

3. The Township of Spallumcheen has opened an emergency operations centre and ordered the evacuation of 18 properties due to an out-of-control wildfire.

The spike in wildfire activity in the province's interior is attributed to lightning strikes and dry conditions.

Residents in the affected area should leave immediately, while others on the west side of the road should be prepared for possible evacuation.

4. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is visiting Latvia to meet with the country's leaders and Canadian troops, highlighting Canada's commitment to its NATO obligations.

The Canada-led NATO battle group in Latvia, consisting of around 800 Canadian Armed Forces members, is the largest overseas mission, demonstrating NATO's efforts to increase deterrence measures and presence near Russia.

The upcoming addition of a Leopard 2 tank squadron with 15 tanks and 130 personnel to the mission further reinforces NATO's response to the invasion of Ukraine and its commitment to regional security.