The Malahat Safety Improvement Project is finished ahead of schedule, and is already providing a safer drive for the more than 22,000 motorists who use this highway every day, announced Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Todd Stone.

The $15-million project involved widening 2.3 kilometres of Highway 1 from Shawnigan Lake Road to the summit to accommodate new median barrier. Now, median barrier extends over more than half of the Malahat corridor.

Work also included improving the Whittaker Road/Holker Place intersection, lengthening the southbound passing lane by 1 kilometre and the northbound passing lane by 400 metres, building U-turn locations and providing better access to and from the Summit Rest Area.

The Malahat Summit Rest Area has been re-opened, featuring additional parking and lighting, as well as a northbound acceleration lane leaving the rest area.

Quotes:

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone -

“Safety on our highways is our number one priority, and the risk of collisions involving vehicles crossing the centreline on the Malahat are a significant concern for my ministry. The addition of median barrier and other safety improvements will help prevent collisions and improve safety and reliability on this section of Highway 1 for all motorists.”

Comox Valley MLA Don McRae -

“This project completes the $33 million investment made by this government to improve the safety and reliability of the Malahat for all the commuters, families, visitors and truckers who drive it.”

Parksville-Qualicum MLA Michelle Stilwell -

“This safety upgrade to the Malahat portion of Highway 1 has improved the beautiful mountain drive between Victoria and the rest of Vancouver Island, making it a safer connection for everyone living in, working in, or visiting our region.”

Learn More:

For images: https://www.flickr.com/photos/tranbc/sets/72157630658564682

To follow Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure news, go to: www.tranbc.ca

“Know before you go” by checking road conditions and web cams at: www.drivebc.ca

Media Contacts:

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