The project to improve safety and access along the Trans-Canada Highway at McKenzie Avenue and Admirals Road continues to move forward with the preparation of the first contract for work on the new McKenzie interchange.

“We committed to getting shovels in the ground this fall on the McKenzie interchange project, and putting the first construction contract out to tender is another big step towards making that happen,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Todd Stone. “I’m looking forward to seeing work getting underway on this important infrastructure project which will benefit transit users, pedestrians, cyclists and drivers in the capital region.”

This tender package includes the realignment and widening of the Galloping Goose Trail along with a new pedestrian/cyclist bridge over McKenzie Avenue. This initial work will also include the placement of preloading materials to compress soft soils, and the relocation of a regional waterline. The tender will be posted on BC Bid within the week and the Province expects to select the contractor in September 2016. Advance site preparation work will take place beginning in August.

In early 2017, another tender will be issued for the remaining work that involves constructing the highway ramps and overpass, as well as the new north-south pedestrian and cyclist overpass over the Trans-Canada Highway. When completed, the new McKenzie interchange will improve traffic flow in the Capital Regional District, reduce collisions, and enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety.

The ministry continues to work collaboratively with the community and all stakeholders involved in the project as the design is finalized and as the project moves into the construction phase.

Quick Facts:

The Government of Canada is contributing up to $32,647,500 under the New Building Canada Fund’s Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component-National and Regional Projects. The Government of British Columbia is funding the remaining $52,352,500 towards the total estimated cost of $85 million.

Learn More:

Visit the McKenzie Interchange project website at: http://engage.gov.bc.ca/mckenzieinterchange/  

Learn more about B.C. on the Move at: www.gov.bc.ca/bconthemove

Follow the work of the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure at: http://tranbc.ca/