OKIB On Closure

Starlee Speers - Vernon 105.7 SUNFM:

The Chief of the Okanagan Indian Band says they may end up closing off a portion of Lakeshore Road in response to concerns about risks to public safety. Fabian Alexis says he's aware the city of Vernon secured grant funding to make improvements to the area in light of the complaints, but their land claims are a bigger priority. He says it's unfortunate the project couldn't continue. Work was already started on lakeshore Road at the South end of Kin beach when it was announced the project would be cancelled on Tuesday. The City of Vernon had secured grants to construct a retaining wall at the beachfront to deter vehicles from driving on the beach, as well as more parking and public walkways. Alexis says in response to concerns about risks to public safety, the band will create an action force to look into closing a portion of the road.