New traffic signal changes on Columbia Street in downtown Kamloops left many drivers confused over the weekend, prompting the City to act quickly with additional signage to help motorists adjust.

The changes, which went into effect on Saturday, October 18, are part of a broader effort to improve traffic flow and reduce delays along the busy Columbia corridor between 1st Avenue and 6th Avenue, including the intersection at 3rd Avenue in front of Royal Inland Hospital.

However, many drivers were caught off guard, particularly by two key updates: the removal of the second eastbound left-turn lane at 3rd Avenue and the fact that eastbound and westbound traffic now move through the intersection at the same time, a departure from the previous pattern

“We did make announcements on the radio and had a traffic management plan in place, but yes, we’ve received some complaints,” said Purvez Irani, the City’s Transportation Manager. “Some drivers are still treating it like there are two left-turn lanes, which is no longer the case. That muscle memory is strong.”

City Responds with Additional Signage

In response to the confusion, the City is installing an electronic message board near the 3rd Avenue intersection, aimed at alerting drivers to the new traffic pattern.

“We’re going above and beyond what’s typically required,” Irani said. “The electronic sign should be in place by the end of the day [Monday], and we’re hoping it will help reinforce that the left-turn lane configuration has changed.”

The move comes after social media complaints and in-person observations showed drivers continuing to use the center lane as a turn lane—despite updated pavement markings and overhead signage.

Why the Changes Were Made

The City says the changes were needed to reduce congestion, especially in light of recent traffic backups caused by:

• Increased volume during the Overlanders Bridge maintenance project

• Ongoing traffic from the Red Bridge closure

• General downtown traffic growth

“We observed long queues in both directions,” said Irani. “These changes, especially optimizing signal timing from 1st to 6th, are designed to create smoother progression—a green wave—for east-west commuters.”

He emphasized that while physical changes at 3rd Avenue—like the left-turn lane reduction and new signs—are visible, the larger improvements are behind the scenes. “You might not notice them, but the traffic signals now allow better coordination so you hit more green lights in a row,” Irani explained.

Early Results Are Promising

Despite the initial confusion, early data from traffic cameras shows that the new signal timing is working well.

“Operationally, it’s going brilliantly,” Irani said. “The delays have been reduced significantly. Now, we just need to focus on public education so people understand and follow the new layout.”

The City will continue monitoring the corridor and make further adjustments if necessary. Drivers are encouraged to pay close attention to signage, allow time for adjustment, and report any concerns to the City.