The second and final construction contract for the McKenzie interchange project has now been awarded for the remaining work that involves lowering the Trans-Canada Highway, constructing the ramps, overpass, and new pedestrian-cyclist bridge over the highway, and the final landscaping.

“A tremendous amount of progress can be seen on-site and awarding the second contract is another milestone step towards completing this interchange project that will improve traffic flow in the Capital Regional District, reduce collisions, and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Claire Trevena.

The ministry continues working to minimize delays and maximize predictability for commuters by ensuring the majority of work is done outside of peak traffic periods. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians are reminded to obey traffic-control personnel, construction speed limits and all signs. Updates are available at http://engage.gov.bc.ca/mckenzieinterchange/ and for the latest travel alerts, please visit www.drivebc.ca.

Westpro, a division of Pomerleau Inc., has been awarded a $42.6-million contract and will begin work in early fall. The new interchange is expected to open to traffic by summer 2019, with final activities ongoing through to winter 2019. The completion timeline was adjusted to lessen both traffic and noise impacts in order to accommodate traffic flow along the corridor, and to be mindful of nearby residents. The challenging weather conditions over the 2016-2017 winter have required more time to allow preload materials to settle before subsequent construction activities can occur.

Quick Facts:

The total estimated cost of the Highway 1 Admirals Road/McKenzie interchange is $85 million, with the Government of Canada contributing up to $32,647,500 under the New Building Canada Fund’s Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component-National and Regional Projects and the Government of British Columbia funding the remaining $52,352,500.