New bridges, viaducts and retaining walls have the B.C. government touting the progress during the first year of phase four of the Kicking Horse Canyon.
This update comes after Highway 1 construction work winds down for the spring and summer as of May 31st.
“It is remarkable to see the transformation of this highway as the finishing touches are put on key bridges and the first year of construction nears completion,” said Dominic LeBlanc, federal Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities. “The Kicking Horse Canyon is a vital route for commerce and commuters, and its extensive renovation will benefit the local economy and community by reducing congestion and increasing road safety.”
Provincial government officials said year one progress included construction on the 150-metre long Bighorn Bridge, and the eastbound lane of Sheep Bridge nearing completion.
“The engineering needed to upgrade Highway 1 through the Kicking Horse Canyon is absolutely extraordinary,” said Rob Fleming, B.C.’s Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “The first year of construction has been challenging, but excellent progress has been made. When completed, these major improvements to this section of highway will make travel better and safer for all who use it.”
According to the B.C. Government, costs of the $601-million project are being shared between the federal and provincial governments.
Officials said the project is slated for completion in the winter of 2023-2024, with construction picking back up in the fall bringing in more scheduled closures.
Until then, the highway will be open during the day, overnight on Saturdays and over long weekends. Government officials said 30-minutes stoppages will take place in the evenings and overnight on Fridays.
Highway 1 will only be completely closed at night on Sundays through to Thursdays.