Work has started at five locations west of Chetwynd to build robust, modern bridges that will allow people to travel safely and efficiently along Highway 97, especially in the event of heavy rain and flooding.

The ministry is spending $26.8 million on this flood recovery program, with assistance from the Public Safety Canada Disaster Funding Assistance Arrangement (DFAA). These projects are in addition to extensive recovery work that has been ongoing since June 2016, when severe flooding caused extensive damage throughout the Peace District.

“The 2016 floods caused a lot of hardship for people in the Peace District, and we want to make sure our infrastructure can withstand future flooding events,” said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “These are significant infrastructure projects which will boost safety and reliability for people travelling on Highway 97, particularly during heavy rain.”

Existing culverts at the five locations below are being replaced with modern two-lane bridges capable of withstanding a 200-year flood level. New highway approaches are being constructed on both sides of each bridge, and works will be done to stabilize the creek banks.

Bowlder Creek
Location: Highway 97, approximately 23 kilometres west of Chetwynd
Contractor: Formula Contractors Ltd. from Prince George
Total project cost: $7.1 million

Commotion Creek
Location: Highway 97, approximately 20 kilometres west of Chetwynd
Contractor: Cewe Infrastructure Ltd. from North Vancouver
Total project cost: $7.3 million

Stone Creek
Location: Highway 97, approximately 16 kilometres southwest of Chetwynd
Contractor: Surespan Construction Ltd. from North Vancouver
Total project cost: $4.6 million

Tippy Corner Creek
Location: Highway 97, approximately 45 kilometres west of Chetwynd
Contractor: Surespan Construction Ltd. from North Vancouver
Total project cost: $3.8 million

Willow Flats
Location: Highway 97, approximately 42 kilometres southwest of Chetwynd
Contractor: Surespan Construction Ltd. from North Vancouver
Total project cost: $4 million

Construction on these five projects has started, and is expected to be substantially complete by fall 2018.

Motorists are advised to watch for construction workers, traffic controllers, signs and detours when driving through any of the construction zones.

In total, more than $76 million is being invested in highway, side road and bridge rehabilitation in northern B.C. in 2018. The B.C. government will continue to invest in transportation infrastructure for the safe, reliable and efficient movement of people and goods.  

Learn More:

For updates on construction and photos of progress: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/transportation-infrastructure/projects/highway-97-north-bridges

For travel information available 24/7: www.drivebc.ca

Mobile-friendly site: www.drivebc.ca/mobile