Drivers confused by conflicting signage for Regina Bypass

The opening of the first phase of the Regina Bypass caused a bit of mayhem on Arcola Street.

Signs were posted indicating vehicles could use the bypass and avoid going through the city to get to Moose Jaw.

However, when truck drivers went to use the road, they found out that part of the bypass wasn’t opened. Instead, they’d need to take Arcola Avenue and cut through Regina.

“The trucks don’t wish to sit in traffic for any longer than possible, that is not their desired outcome, it increases their costs significantly,” said Nicole Sinclair, a policy analyst with the Saskatchewan Trucking Association.

She told 980 CJME Tuesday the confusion happened because orange road signs told drivers to continue on Victoria Avenue to access Highway 1 – but overhead signs indicated something different.

She said they contacted Regina Bypass on Monday. She noted the company behind the project has confirmed it will change electronic messaging and make adjustments to the overhead sign.

“It’s a huge change – to change the route for the Trans-Canada Highway – so we tried this, but they’re going to make a few tweaks to it, hopefully, communicate it a little better.”

The City of Regina also put out a statement Tuesday saying it heard from residents about the confusion.

“Signage has been installed along Highway 1 to promote Victoria Avenue and Highway 1 as a primary traffic route, and additional signage will be in place shortly,” the statement read.

“The City of Regina and the Ministry of Highways are monitoring traffic flows in this area and will be meeting to discuss further steps to resolve any issues related to the bypass.”

The city stated it appreciated everyone’s patience during this time, adding the issue is “relatively short-term” as work continues on the bypass.

— With files from Adrianna Christianson.