Across the province, our highway network provides an important service.
It connects our communities, allows goods to be shipped from one region to another, and is a key part of economic development.
This network, and the safety rules that apply to it, have been developed over time.
There has been a lot of discussion recently in the media about highway speed limits, and whether it is time to update our existing rules.
Our government has begun a review of highway speed limits on the long stretches of provincial highways between communities, including both a technical review and a public consultation.
Beginning next month, our government will be looking for input from the public, giving British Columbians the chance to have their say on rural highway speed limits.
Some of the main topics that the review will look at include which highway corridors should be considered for speed limit changes, what should be considered a slow vehicle and where slow vehicles might be of concern, and how we can improve safety in areas where there is the potential for collisions with wildlife.
British Columbians will be able to give their input through social media and online feedback, as well as through forums to be held in Kamloops, Chilliwack, Nanaimo, Prince George, Dawson Creek, Vancouver, Kelowna and Cranbrook.
More communities may be added to this list later on.
Together with input from the public, the review of highway speed limits will also look at the latest research from around the world.
It will also consult with key stakeholders such as the Union of BC Municipalities, ICBC, and police.
This will form the basis for a list of practical recommendations and a strategy for implementation, which will be ready in the spring of 2014.
Stay tuned for more information on how to get involved and provide your feedback next month.
Donna Barnett is the Liberal MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin.