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The new $4.2-million Loon Lake rest stop situated along the Okanagan Connector highway has officially reopened to travelers.
The location reopened last Friday after being closed for almost two months despite only opening in February.
The facility was intended to replace to the popular red-roofed visitor's centre at Exit 286 outside of Merritt, however, the new location on Highway 97C was met with backlash from motorists complaining it was out of the way.
Despite the lengthy closure, The Ministry of Transportation insists water issues plaguing the rest stop have been resolved and the location is ready to serve travelers.
“A filtration system was installed by VSA Maintenance, which will eliminate the issue of gravel and sediment from the well water entering the waterlines in the future,” said Justin Jepson with the ministry on Tuesday.
“We will continue to test and monitor the facilities to ensure there are no issues, and porta-potties will remain on site for the short term.”
The new location does feature running water, flush toilets, free Wifi, a landscaped outdoor area with picnic tables and separate parking for passenger, commercial and recreational vehicles.
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