Some Steinbach residents have been questioning whether or not there is an error in the new eastbound turning lanes when heading from McKenzie to Brandt. The City’s Head Engineer, Phil Kalyta assures us there is not.

The current signage indicates that the rightmost lane may be used for turning right or proceeding straight while the leftmost lane is exclusively for left-hand turns.

Kalyta acknowledges that the former intersection of McKenzie and Brandt allowed vehicles from either lane to cross into either lane. However, Kalyta stresses, “Even though you physically can go straight through, that lane is a designated as a left-turn-only lane,” continuing forward would technically be illegal.

“This cleans things up and makes it safer,” offers Kalyta, “When the light is green on McKenzie, all of the vehicles running in both directions can now make their movements much more safely.”

Kalyta indicates the decision was made not to add an extra turning lane because the geometry of the land was not suited for it and frequent truck traffic required as much room for maneuverability as possible.

Though these changes could take some getting used to, Kalyta informs that they should help facilitate the flow of traffic in what is normally a busy area.