A new traffic pattern coming into effect at the Glacier View Drive roundabout later this week.

The Comox Valley Regional District says as part of the ongoing Sewer Conveyance Project, a partial opening will take place by the end of the day this Friday, October 31st.

Local traffic will be able to head eastbound on Comox Road, travel up the hill, and exit onto Glacier View Drive.

However, the eastbound exit from the roundabout onto Comox Avenue - heading into the Town of Comox - will stay closed for now.

A temporary, timed traffic light will be in place at the roundabout to help reduce eastbound congestion and keep westbound traffic flowing smoothly along Comox Avenue.

The CVRD warns that eastbound travel up Comox Hill will likely see delays, as the roundabout opening is meant for local traffic only - not for heavy or commercial trucks.

The official detour via Ryan Road will stay in effect until the Rodello roundabout construction is complete, and that’s still expected by the end of November, weather permitting.

Officials say the Ryan Road route will remain the quickest way to travel between Courtenay and Comox until then.

The idea behind the partial reopening is to give some relief to local traffic on Comox Hill, which should in turn help traffic flow more smoothly on the main detour route.

The Regional District is thanking the community for its patience while crews work to finish this major infrastructure project safely and as quickly as possible.

Cyclists and pedestrians will also notice some changes. Two-way bike and foot traffic will be allowed through the construction area along Comox Avenue.

Eastbound cyclists heading up the hill will be able to continue right into Comox once the partial opening takes effect.

The CVRD reminds everyone that businesses along Comox Road are still open during construction.

Because the schedule depends on weather and site conditions, the CVRD says the best way to stay informed about updates is to follow the project online at Comox Valley Sewer Conveyance Project.

The Comox Valley Regional District operates in partnership with the three electoral areas and three municipalities of the Valley, on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation.