Beginning October 18, 2025, the City of Kamloops will be optimizing the signal timing at the signalized intersections within the Columbia Street corridor between 1st Avenue and 6th Avenue.

The dual left-turn lane at the Columbia Street and 3rd Avenue intersection will also be converted to a single left-turn lane allowing left turn movements in both directions to occur concurrently and more time for free flow of east-west straight through traffic. In conjunction with this change, pavement markings and overhead signage will be updated to reflect the new configuration.

Traffic analysis shows that the revised layout will significantly improve east–west travel and overall intersection performance while maintaining similar queuing times for left-turning vehicles. These updates are designed to support current traffic volumes and provide flexibility to adapt to future development and growth in the downtown area.

The City’s transportation team used recent vehicle and pedestrian count data from the downtown network to guide these changes. Traffic flows will be monitored closely to ensure the adjustments are working as intended and necessary refinements will be made based on real-world driver behaviour and performance.

This work has been strategically scheduled to begin after the completion of the Overlanders Bridge Maintenance Project, minimizing overlapping construction impacts and avoiding additional congestion along this key route.

The upcoming changes also build on recent paving upgrades along Columbia Street, helping to create a more coordinated and efficient transportation corridor. Drivers along the Columbia Street corridor can expect smoother travel with better traffic signal timing and fewer stops along the way.

For questions, please contact traffic@kamloops.ca.