Get ready for new Kelowna HOV lane rules

KELOWNA – There are some new rules to follow if you're driving Highway 97 through Kelowna, starting January 19.

The High Occupancy Vehicle lanes will transition to time-of-day operations. From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday excluding holidays, the HOV lanes must be observed. At all other times, the lanes will be available to all road users, according to a media release from the B.C. ministry of transportation.

The change is intended to recognize periods when traffic volumes and transit use are at peak levels. From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays, HOV lanes can be used by vehicles with two or more occupants, Handy Dart buses, motorcycles, taxis and B.C. Transit buses only.

HOV lanes running between Water Street, Pandosy Street and Highway 33 were originally implemented in 2009 to support the Rapid Transit project as a safety feature as well as allowing buses to move efficiently along the highway, thereby encouraging public transit use to ease congestion and pollution.

With the changes come increased enforcement, the ministry says. As well, there are plans for continued expansion along the Rapid Bus route toward UBCO in the future.

More information on Kelowna's HOV lanes can be found online and also by calling 250-712-3660.