Highway 97 at Monte Lake to see improvements

MONTE LAKE – Safety improvements, including LED arrow signs and pavement markings, are coming to Highway 97 at Monte Lake this spring.

The improvements at Monte Lake result from a recent safety review of that section of Highway 97.

Vehicle-activated LED arrow signs will be installed at both the north and south ends of the corridor to guide drivers around the curves. If a driver is entering the curve too fast, the signs will activate and alert drivers to slow down to a safe speed. In addition, pedestrian signs outlined with LEDs will be installed at the south end by the Monte Lake RV and Campground, and will illuminate to warn motorists that pedestrians may be walking along or crossing the highway.

The ministry will also install speed-reduction pavement markings on the curve at the north end of the section of Highway 97 near Paxton Road. The road markings act as a traffic-calming device that creates an optical illusion for drivers through the curve, which in turn leads them to slow down.

Work will be done this spring as weather conditions allow. This project is expected to cost about $125,000. The work is part of the 10-year transportation plan announced this week by Transportation Minister Todd Stone.