Work is now underway to resurface more than 26 kilometres of roads in the Quesnel area, providing driving improvements for local drivers, the commercial trucking industry and tourists.

“The highways and roads in the Quesnel area are an important part of the provincial road network, whether they serve the local population or the resource and tourism industry,” said Cariboo North MLA Coralee Oakes. “This project will go a long way towards making the drive safer and increasing mobility for motorists when travelling on these roadways.”

A contract has been awarded to Quesnel Paving that will see resurfacing of approximately 20 kilometres of Highway 97 in the Quesnel area, between Quartz Road and the junction with Highway 26 and between Naver Road and Plett Road. Approximately 6.5 kilometres of local side roads will also be resurfaced. The ministry investment in the project is $5.8 million.

“Resurfacing these sections of Highway 97 will not only improve safety, but will also make for a more pleasant drive for residents, visitors, and commercial users,” added Oakes. “This project is an important investment in our region’s most important transportation corridor.”

Resurfacing will make for a smoother, more enjoyable ride for motorists that use Highway 97 in the Quesnel area, as well as Webber Road, Sundown Road, Dean Road, Lakeman Road, Raven Ridge Road, Eastway Road, Shindell Road, Birch Hill Road and Sunridge Road.

This work will also improve the safety and efficiency of Highway 97 as commercial trucks move goods to market. Work is scheduled to be complete in early October.

The rehabilitation of provincial highways, bridges and side roads is a priority of B.C. on the Move, a 10-year transportation plan that outlines critical investments and improvements throughout the province to improve the daily lives of British Columbians.

B.C. on the Move is available online at: http://engage.gov.bc.ca/transportationplan/