An additional eastbound passing lane will be constructed along Highway 3 west of Fernie, providing a passing opportunity for motorists and increasing safety.

“With the growth of industrial traffic in this area, motorists need a safe place to pass slower-moving and commercial vehicles,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone. “Adding more passing lanes on Highway 3 from Cranbrook to Fernie and through the Elk Valley is a key priority in B.C. on the Move, the province’s 10-year transportation plan.”

The new eastbound-passing lane will be approximately two kilometres long and will be constructed just east of the intersection of Highway 3 and Galloway Road, approximately 45 kilometres west of Fernie. The contract has been awarded to Copcan Civil Ltd of Nanaimo and is valued at $3.3 million.

“The two kilometre passing lane along the Crowsnest Highway east of Galloway will be a welcome addition for local residents and industry,” said MLA for Kootenay East Bill Bennett. “This passing lane is the result of discussions with the Highway 3 Mayors’ and Chairs’ Coalition and we’re committed to these upgrades and increasing capacity along Highway 3.”

“Providing safe highway travel along the Highway 3 corridor is a top priority for the Highway 3 Mayors’ and Chairs’ Coalition,” said Lawrence Chernoff, mayor of Castlegar and chair of the Highway 3 Mayors’ and Chairs’ Coalition. “The Coalition extends our appreciation to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for their ongoing commitment and support of our goals.”

Work is expected to begin this spring and wrap up in the summer.

Learn more:

B.C. on the Move is available online: www.gov.bc.ca/bconthemove