Radium Hot Springs Mayor Mike Gray says the future wildlife overpass will make the highway south of town much safer for humans and animals.
The project is the culmination of a dedicated push to protect drivers and local wildlife, particularly the big horn sheep herd, from highway collisions.
“It’s a great day for the sheep of Radium Hot Springs and it’s a great day for residents in Radium Hot Springs,” said Gray. “The sheep are iconic to Radium Hot Springs and of course, we want to protect them. But, they’re not the only animals that can use this overpass.”
The overpass will be constructed south of the community, along a stretch of Highway 93/95 near Mile Hill.
The planned overpass got approval from the B.C. government late last week, after years of effort.
“There have been people in the Village of Radium Hot Springs working on sheep and driver safety for over 20 years,” said Gray. “This current iteration of the project, with the wildlife overpass, is probably just over two years with the Ministry of Transportation.”
According to the provincial government, about 10 per cent of the local bighorn sheep herd is killed by vehicle collisions each year.
The herd’s population dropped from about 230 in 2003 to 120 in 2019.
Gray said the planned piece of infrastructure should cut down on accidents.
“The hope is that this means fewer interactions between motor vehicles and wildlife,” said Gray. “It’s a win-win; we’re hoping that something that has been so effective in other areas of the province is just as effective here.”
The project’s budget will be bolstered by a $2.5 million contribution from Teck.
B.C. government officials said the project will include six kilometres of wildlife fencing and gates meant to guide animals to the overpass.
