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Report: Signage getting better for Oyama/new highway

Should be easier to get to Oyama for tourists traveling through the Okanagan

Lake Country businesses located in Oyama will benefit from new wayfinding signage to be installed on Highway 97.

“We’ve heard a lot from Oyama businesses since the new highway opened without specific signage directing travelers to Oyama,” said Mayor James Baker. “Most Lake Country residents have been following the highway construction and public consultation process on transitioning Pelmewash Parkway into a destination recreation corridor and community amenity; but it will take a while before people travelling through know where to get off the provincial highway to visit the beautiful Oyama neighbourhood of Lake Country.”

Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure staff has been working with District of Lake Country staff to address community concerns over highway signage and meet the various business wayfinding and tourism needs.

New routing information signage will be installed as soon as possible in late September to help travelers finding their way to Oyama Road and Evans Road. Large changeable message signs have been positioned in advance of the Pelmewash Parkway exits on Hwy 97 as a short-term measure.

“It is a priority to mayor and council that the community’s needs and concerns are addressed,” said Ryan Roycroft, Economic Development Manager. “Council, staff and Ministry of Transportation and infrastructure staff had a discussion September 3rd and came to some agreement on how to best serve the interests of the local community and travelers in a way that respects provincial highways policy. The cooperation of the ministry in responding has been very much appreciated.”

The community has spoken in word and deed – through handmade signs placed along the new Highway 97 alignment to emphasize the importance of wayfinding signage.

The whole community will benefit from the installation of standard provincial highway signage, according to the DLC. Lake Country residents and businesses alike take pride in having Oyama included as part of an outstanding community that attracts visitors from all over the world.