An agreement between the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and the Sexqeltkemc te Secwepemc (STS) paves the way for construction to continue on the Highway 1 Monte Creek to Pritchard project.

Archaeological investigations identified ancestral remains in several locations. The Secwepemc Bands that engaged in the archaeology and cultural heritage works know this area to be a significant burial landform. To preserve the integrity of the landform, the locations will not be revealed.

The ministry has worked in partnership with Secwepemc communities to ensure that the widening of the Trans-Canada Highway to four lanes can proceed, while protecting these culturally significant archaeological sites.

Through discussions with the Secwepemc communities, the remains will be placed deeper into the earth at their current locations to protect them from construction activities and any further interference, in keeping with Secwepemc culture and values.

These solutions are the result of co-operation between the Province and the Secwepemc communities. The ministry appreciates the heritage and cultural significance of this area to the Secwepemc Nation and continues to value their guidance in ensuring that the cultural importance of these sites is respected and preserved.

The total cost of the Highway 1 Monte Creek to Pritchard project is $49 million. The Government of Canada is contributing up to a maximum of $16.7 million through the Building Canada Fund. The government of B.C. is investing $32.3 million for this highway safety improvement.

Work on Phase 2 of the Highway 1 Monte Creek to Pritchard project will be underway this summer.

Media Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241