A portion of the new Wharf Street separated bike lane opens today.

The protected cycle lane from the Johnson Street Bridge to Fort Street will be opened for use, while the section along Wharf Street to Government Street is set to open Aug. 8, and the section from Government to Douglas Street on Aug. 15.

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Also opening today will be the new pedestrian scramble crosswalk adjacent to the Victoria Visitor Centre at the new squared-off Wharf Street and Government Street intersection. The scramble intersection has traffic lights that stop all vehicles, allowing pedestrians to cross in all directions at the same time.

In addition to the separated bike lane and scramble crosswalk, the completed project will include eight improved pedestrian crossings, two plazas, a new pedestrian-controlled traffic signal at Yates Street, a new traffic signal at the Johnson Street Bridge and two new bus stops.

The city plans to have staff stationed along Wharf Street and at the new scramble crosswalk throughout August to answer questions and provide educational materials to road users.