Under the BC Rural Dividend Program, the Government of British Columbia is providing $1.76 million for 11 projects in northern B.C., Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, announced today.

Construction of a new two-kilometre eastbound passing lane has been completed near Tyhee Lake on Highway 16, improving safety and efficiency for motorists.

Smithers Regional Airport will receive $750,000 in funding from the B.C. Air Access Program for airport infrastructure improvements, announced Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone.

Families in the Bulkley Valley school district will benefit from improved transportation services, thanks to $163,737 in funding under the new provincial Student Transportation Fund.

Work is now complete on a major upgrade to the Hagwilget Bridge.

Work will soon be underway on a project to replace the Kathlyn Creek culvert with a bridge on Highway 16 near Smithers.

Following a grueling day of intense competition, three dedicated B.C. mine rescue teams claimed victory this weekend at the 60th annual Mine Rescue and First Aid Competition in Smithers.