Beginning this holiday weekend, motorists will be able to choose the fastest route between Vancouver, south Surrey, Delta and the Canada-United States border crossings. Five new intelligent overhead message signs will display estimated travel times to or from the Oak Street Bridge and King George Boulevard via the George Massey Tunnel and Alex Fraser Bridge.
The signs are located on:
Traffic flow is measured between various points along the Highway 99 and 91 corridors through intelligent road sign technologies and congestion tracking.
The project cost approximately $2.7 million and supports the Province's goal to improve the movement of goods and people, which is outlined in 'Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan'.
Quotes:
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"We are committed to moving goods and people more efficiently and safely across our province. This expanded system will give motorists the information they need to make informed travel decisions."
Richmond East MLA Linda Reid -
"The expansion of the Advanced Traveller Information System is important for our transportation system. Our government is focusing on creating jobs and improving the transport of goods and people. This is a great addition to the flow and safety of the major lower mainland routes."
Surrey-Panorama MLA Stephanie Cadieux -
"For many residents of the Lower Mainland, commuting is a large part of their everyday lives. The expansion of the Advanced Traveller Information System will ensure that drivers have the information they need to have a fast and safe commute."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
Follow the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca
To view photos of the new message boards, visit: http://bit.ly/KqlGeY
To learn more about the BC Jobs Plan, visit: www.bcjobsplan.ca/
Contact:
Jeff Knight
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-7707
]]>
DriveBC web cameras are now live at:
The addition of 30 new webcams this year will bring the number of webcam images available on DriveBC to over 250. All are expected to be installed and in operation by winter.
Priority for new web cameras is given to routes prone to extreme weather or traffic congestion, and for sites where there is not already a nearby webcam.
Further supporting the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure's public engagement, until June 30, the ministry is asking B.C. travellers where they would like to see B.C. highway cams to better help them know before they go. Have your say at: http://www.tranbc.ca/surveys.
DriveBC provides timely road condition updates, travel advisories, road closure information for provincial highways, weather information and other important links to the travelling public, to help ensure easier, safer trips.
Quotes:
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"The addition of DriveBC webcams at Balfour and Kootenay Bay will help motorists plan their journey through the Kootenays, with real-time road and weather conditions at each of the Kootenay Lake ferry terminals now available on DriveBC."
"Our webcams, along with highway closure and construction delay information, are important tools to help you 'know before you go,' and I encourage everyone to check DriveBC before setting out."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
East of Revelstoke, approximately 17 km of Highway 1 will be resurfaced, beginning one km east of the city. West of Revelstoke, approximately one km of highway will be resurfaced, on the west side of the Columbia River Bridge. About 13 km of Highway 23 will be resurfaced, between Revelstoke and the Mica Dam.
A $3.7-million contract has been awarded to Peter's Bros. Construction Ltd. from Penticton. Work will begin in June and be finished by the end of September. This work will benefit the area residents, tourists, forest industry and commercial transport vehicles that rely on these highways.
Additional improvements on Highway 1 near Revelstoke include:
In the past 10 years, the Province has invested over $514 million in improvements to the highway network and community infrastructure in the Columbia River-Revelstoke area.
Quotes:
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"This resurfacing work on Highway 1 near Revelstoke builds on the other safety improvements we're making to what is one of the Province's most important highway corridors. This work includes the Clanwilliam Bridge replacement, which will be finished this year, and more than 55 km of new four-laning between Kamloops and the Alberta border that are either complete or underway."
Shuswap MLA George Abbott -
"This is a vital stretch of road, used extensively by local residents, commuters and tourists alike. These improvements will make for a safer drive for everyone."
Learn More:
Learn more about the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
]]>
In the West Kootenay, Highway 3 will be resurfaced from Kootenay Pass Summit to the east chain-up and from Canyon Lister Road to East Arrow Creek Road, a total of 9.2 km. Concrete roadside barrier will be replaced along part of the route to improve safety and shoulders will be widened to enhance travel for cyclists. This project also includes the resurfacing of Canyon Lister Road near Creston and the hard-surfacing of West Creston Road.
The project is valued at $3.7 million, and a contract for the work has been awarded to Okanagan Aggregates Ltd. from Armstrong.
Also near Creston, a $2.6-million project to rehabilitate the Old Kootenay River Channel Bridge on Highway 3 is underway. This work will increase the lifespan of the 300-metre long bridge, which was constructed in 1958. The contract was awarded to Seismic 2000 Construction Ltd. from Aldergrove.
In the Similkameen, almost 20 km of Highway 3 will be resurfaced between Hedley and Keremeos, and shoulder improvements will also be made. The total value of the work is estimated at $2.9 million, with a contract awarded to Green Roads Recycling Ltd. of Fernie for the resurfacing.
A $3.7-million contract has been awarded to Emil Anderson Maintenance Co. Ltd. from Rosedale to resurface portions of Highways 3 and 5 near Hope. This work includes resurfacing of the slow lane along Highway 3 between the Othello Interchange and Nicolum Creek Bridge, a distance of 4.8 km.
The Province is also investing $140,000 in projects to improve safety and travel along Highway 3:
Quotes:
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"Highway 3 provides important access to many southern B.C. communities, as well as to Alberta, Washington, Idaho and Montana. The work we are doing on the corridor this year will improve safety for all those who use Highway 3, and in the process create a large number of family-supporting jobs."
Boundary-Similkameen MLA John Slater -
"Highway 3 is a major route connecting the communities along the southern portion of British Columbia from the Alberta border to Vancouver. These projects will mean increased safety for residents, commuters, tourists and commercial vehicles."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
Learn more about the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca
Know before you go. For details on construction delays, check DriveBC at: www.drivebc.ca
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a key transportation corridor for the Port Renfrew area and promotes tourism along the entire route from Victoria to Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan, Duncan, and back to Victoria.
A $1.2-million contract has been awarded to Don Mann Excavating Ltd. of Victoria. Work is scheduled to begin in late June and finish by the end of September. The new bridge will enhance the marine environment in this portion of the Harris River by restoring the natural stream channel to improve the stream flow, fish passage and fish habitat.
Over the past 10 years, the Province has invested more than $548 million on road and bridge improvements and maintenance on Vancouver Island.
Quote:
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"The Upper Harris Bridge is located on a busy and popular stretch of highway in the Port Renfrew area, and the new structure will make travelling this route safer and more enjoyable for residents and tourists alike."
Learn More:
Learn more about the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
The government's vision is to connect coastal communities in an affordable, efficient and sustainable manner. Amendments to the act give the commissioner more flexibility to determine the amount of revenue needed to sustain operations and support ongoing investment. The commissioner will also be given additional responsibility to oversee the costs of providing the ferry service. These changes will help reduce the pressure on fares.
Government agrees with the ferry commissioner that the interests of all parties must be reasonably balanced. Taxpayers, users and the ferry operator need to contribute to solutions that link coastal communities affordably and efficiently.
While these are tough economic times and fiscal discipline must be maintained, government is committed to providing additional dollars to keep the system affordable. In addition to the legislative changes:
Coastal ferries are integral to the way of life for many British Columbians. For 52 years, British Columbia's ferries have moved people and goods along the coast. However, travel patterns, demographics and coastal communities have changed, affecting how the ferry system is used. Like ferry systems around the world, it faces challenges of maintaining ridership amid rising operating costs, and changing customer preferences. Some routes in the current ferry system operate at less than 30 per cent of capacity, and some routes are losing millions of dollars despite annual government contributions. Without changes, the system is at considerable risk.
To ensure British Columbians have safe and reliable coastal transportation for future generations, long-term strategies will be developed and implemented. Future investments will look at providing greater interoperability of ferries between routes, reducing operating costs by implementing new technologies, such as LNG-fuelled and cable ferries, and allowing for alternative methods to connect coastal communities, such as passenger-only ferries and other service improvements.
Quote:
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Blair Lekstrom -
"The legislation introduced today builds upon the BC Ferry Commissioner's report and the concerns that the public have expressed about the affordability of BC Ferries. Despite the fiscal challenges this government faces, we are providing an additional $79.5 million - significant funding - over the next four years. We are following a three-pronged approach balancing the interests of ferry users, taxpayers and the ferry operator. I believe the changes we are making will address many of the issues identified, and I look forward to future discussions as we move forward to ensuring we have an affordable and sustainable B.C. ferry system."
Learn More:
This review of the Coastal Ferry Act is available at:
http://www.bcferrycommission.com/reports-press/whats-new/coastal-ferry-act-review/report-released
A backgrounder follows.
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
BACKGROUNDER
Legislation and fares addressed in changes proposed to Coastal Ferry Act
In May 2011, the Government of British Columbia passed legislation to support a review of the Coastal Ferry Act by the independent BC Ferry Commissioner to address public concern about rising ferry fares.
On Jan. 24, 2012, BC commissioner Gordon Macatee and deputy commissioner Sheldon Stoilen issued a report with recommendations on how to better balance the interests of ferry users, taxpayers, and the ferry operator.
Legislation:
The proposed legislative changes move toward striking a balance among the interests of ferry users, taxpayers and the sustainability of the ferry operator.
Some examples include:
Other proposed legislative changes give the commissioner the authority to:
Fares:
The Province has a long-term service contract with the operator, BC Ferry Services Inc., which defines the number of ferry sailings on 25 designated saltwater routes. The Province provides an annual ferry transportation fee to support these services.
Every four years, the commissioner reviews the costs to provide this service. The commissioner then sets a maximum average fare increase - called a price cap - for the following four-year performance term.
In addition to the ferry transportation fee, the Province provides annual subsidies for social programs which help keep fares affordable for seniors, students, people with disabilities and people travelling for medical reasons.
The total amount of provincial funding is currently more than $150 million. To address the current fiscal challenges facing the ferry system, the Province is providing an additional $79.5 million. This consists of a payment of $25 million and made at the end of 2011-12, and yearly payments of $21.5 million, $10.5 million, $11 million and $11.5 million in fiscal years 2012-13, 2013-14, 2014-15 and 2015-16.
For performance term 3, the commissioner set the preliminary annual price cap increases of 4.15 per cent for the major routes and 8.23 per cent for the northern and minor routes. The Province intervened to set the price cap increase for 2012-13 at 4.15 per cent for all routes. While the commissioner is responsible for setting the final price caps for the remaining three years, the Province's actions today are intended to enable the price cap increase to decline over time.
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Blair Lekstrom is introducing changes to the South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority Act today.
Fare evasion and fine collection:
The legislative changes are designed to deter people from cheating Metro Vancouver's transit system.
The majority of people pay their transit fares. With the changes, people who do not pay their fare-evasion fines will face serious consequences.
Drivers with unpaid fines, both past and future, will be unable to renew their licence and registration. TransLink may make use of collection agencies and will also be able to refuse transit service until fines are paid. TransLink can file certificates in court to gain access to the assets of people who do not pay.
TransLink will have the authority to collect fines, set fine amounts and resolve disputes. Regulations will be developed prior to implementation.
TransLink will receive the revenue from fines, which will help pay for fine administration, dispute resolution services and collection costs. TransLink will also be required to report annually about the fine revenue and collection process.
These changes are expected to take effect this summer.
The legislation will provide TransLink with the tools to reduce fare evasion in addition to the introduction of faregates and the Compass smart card system in 2013. The Compass Card will replace the existing monthly and daily passes, tickets and cash fares.
The Province is providing $40 million and the Government of Canada is contributing up to $30 million from the Building Canada Fund to support the approximately $100 million in eligible costs attributed to the faregates and required station improvements. TransLink is contributing the balance of funding, for a total project cost of approximately $171 million.
Governance:
After listening to the Mayors' Council on Regional Transportation and the public, government is changing legislation to provide greater assurance that TransLink is running efficiently and effectively and to strengthen the role of local government in planning and decision-making processes.
Legislative enhancements include:
Periodic performance audits will examine TransLink's operations with the goal to help the organization increase efficiency for the benefit of the travelling public. The Province has ordered a performance audit of TransLink, which will be complete by the end of August.
Extending the submission date for TransLink's base plans from Aug. 1 to Nov. 1 will allow for more consultation between the organization, the public and the Mayors' Council.
Adding the director of Electoral Area "A" will provide residents in the area with a representative voting at the Mayors' Council table. The change was requested by the Mayors' Council, the director and the public.
Adding two mayors to TransLink's Board of Directors will strengthen the link and facilitate communications between the two groups. This supports the objectives of the Mayors' Council without fundamentally changing TransLink's governance structure.
Quotes:
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Blair Lekstrom -
"People who have avoided paying their transit fare in Metro Vancouver have been put on notice: the free rides are over. I have listened to both TransLink and the public. These legislative changes will allow TransLink to go after people who abuse the system and their fellow passengers."
"Every passenger who takes advantage of the system by not paying a fare only increases the costs for those who do. The easiest solution to avoid being fined is to simply pay your fare ticket."
"After numerous discussions with the Mayors' Council, I have brought in changes to enhance the existing governance model. TransLink's planning and decision-making processes will be strengthened by adding the director of Electoral Area "A" to the Mayors' Council, changing the timeline for base plans, allowing for periodic performance audits to be requested and adding two mayors to the Board of Directors."
"I firmly believe the legislative changes in Bill 51 will strike a balance between the mayors' interests and keeping a professional Board of Directors for TransLink. TransLink must continue to be operated from a regional perspective, versus community by community decision-making."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority Act
A backgrounder follows.
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
BACKGROUNDER
New powers for TransLink to enforce fare evasion
The South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority Act will be modified to create a mechanism for TransLink to collect fines from unpaid fare evasion tickets. TransLink will be able to keep that money to help pay for the cost of collecting fines.
TransLink can use small claims court and collection agencies to collect unpaid fines as well as these other options:
In extreme situations of repeat offences and refusal to pay fines, TransLink can request the Province to reduce a provincial payment to an individual, such as a provincial tax refund.
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
]]>
This year, more than 63 km of roads in Peace River North will be resurfaced or paved. This includes widening, strengthening and surfacing portions of Hilltop Road, Rimrock Road, Charlie Lake Road South, Old Hope Road and 100 Street. Various side roads will be strengthened, gravelled and graded, including Altona Road, Clayhurst Ferry 108 Road and the Clayhurst 111 Hill. There will also be an enhanced dust suppression program this year.
Work will begin on Phase 2 of improvements along 86th Street in Fort St. John, in partnership with the City, that will enhance access to the new hospital and include walking paths and lighting.
The Fort Nelson area will see numerous highway improvement projects including overhead lighting at Alaska Highway and Simpson Trail, the Fort Nelson Gateway intersection, and continued resurfacing on Highway 77.
This year's program will not only ensure roads and highways in Peace River North are kept in good condition, but will also create more than 120 jobs for the local economy. Over the past 10 years, the Province has invested more than $560 million to maintain and improve the highway network and community infrastructure in Peace River North.
Quotes:
MLA for Peace River North Pat Pimm -
"These improvements are great news for Peace River North. They will not only improve the quality of life in our communities, they will provide good paying jobs for families in the region. These are roads that people of the region have consistently spoken to me about and I am happy to be able to have them addressed this year."
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"Keeping our highways and roads safe and reliable will have a positive impact on local residents and industry throughout Peace River North. Our work this year will improve highways in the region so that families living here continue to have a road network they can rely on."
Learn More:
Follow the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca
Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/
Contact:
Jeff Knight
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-7707
BACKGROUNDER
Peace River North highway projects for 2012-13
86th Street Urban Upgrade - Phase 2: Construct full curb and gutter upgrade of the southern portion of 86th Street, including walking paths and lighting in Fort St. John.
Highway 77, Liard Km 83 - Km 138: Completion of project to resurface Km 83 to Km 120. Additional resurfacing of Highway 77 from Km 120 to Km 138 north of Fort Nelson.
Highway 97, Fort Nelson Gateway Intersection: Partnership with Northern Rockies Regional Municipality to construct left turn slots, deceleration lanes and signalization on Highway 97N at the intersection of the Airport Connector Road in Fort Nelson.
Highway 77, Fort Nelson River Bridge: Develop conceptual design and cost estimate for increasing load capacity of the Fort Nelson River Bridge on Highway 77, north of Fort Nelson.
North Peace Side Road Hardsurfacing: Pave various side roads including portions of Hilltop, Rimrock, Charlie Lake South, Old Hope and 100 Street Lookout.
North Peace Side Road Gravelling: Gravel and brushing along various side roads including Altona Road, Clayhurst Ferry 108 Road and Clayhurst 111 Hill.
North Peace Dust Control: Apply dust control on various side roads impacted by the oil and gas industry in the North Peace area, including Altona Road, Beryl Prairie Road and Clayhurst Ferry 108 Road. These projects are in addition to the work that Yellowhead Road and Bridge maintenance has planned for the 2012 season.
Fort Nelson Luminaires: Install luminaires at the intersection of Alaska Highway and Simpson Trail.
Contact:
Jeff Knight
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-7707
]]>
The initiative is a continuing commitment under the Ranching Task Force Report, in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, Ministry of Agriculture and the BC Cattlemen's Association (BCCA).
This six-year program began in 2010 with planning and prioritization of projects. Construction commenced in 2011 and will take place through 2015, with a total of about 700 km of fencing built to separate livestock from provincial highways and railways. Last year, over 90 km of fencing was contracted, primarily replacing existing fences that were in poor repair.
Applications for fencing under this project have been received by the BCCA since early November 2010 and are still being accepted for future construction seasons. The planning and prioritization phase has wrapped up for this year, and tenders will be let for approximately $1.35 million in fence construction this season.
Administration of the project and tendering of the fence construction contracts will be carried out through BCCA's project delivery arm.
Quotes:
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"Many of our provincial highways pass through ranch land. By improving fencing along these routes, we are improving the safety of motorists who could be seriously injured in a collision with stray animals, and helping to protect ranchers from losing valuable livestock."
Minister of Agriculture Don McRae -
"The Province and BCCA are working together to improve conditions on the range, and build on the reputation that B.C. beef is raised to the highest of standards. The construction of 700 kilometres of fencing will offer highway and railway users increased safety while protecting the investments of B.C.'s hard working ranching families."
BC Cattlemen's Association general manager Kevin Boon -
"The joint program to fence highways and protect motorists and livestock in British Columbia is well underway, with close to 100 kilometres of fence built in the first year."
"With food production becoming ever more important to the province's economy, it is refreshing to see a program that invests in its future. More importantly, this program protects the motorists who enjoy B.C.'s highways."
Learn More:
Learn more about the Highways Fencing Program at: www.cattlemen.bc.ca/fencing.htm
Contact:
Jeff Knight
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-7707
Kathryn Hardy
Communications
Ministry of Agriculture
250 387-1693
The Province has awarded a $4.1-million contract for Tybo Contracting of Surrey to widen North Road in Burnaby between Lougheed Highway and Cottonwood Avenue.
North Road will be widened on the west side to prepare for construction of the Evergreen Line guideway up the centre of the road. Construction is scheduled to start in early this month, and be completed in late 2012.
The new permanent lane on the west side will help minimize traffic disruption during guideway construction. After construction is complete, the new lane will replace the lane taken up by the guideway.
Every effort will be made to minimize disruption and maintain access for both businesses and residents. Residents, businesses and local government have been informed of the widening. Information about widening is also available on the Evergreen Line website: www.evergreenline.gov.bc.ca/construction_bulletins.htm
For the most-up-to-date information related to Evergreen Line construction in Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Port Moody, the public is encouraged to call the free traffic information line at 604 927-2080 or request to be added to the email subscription list by emailing info@evergreenline.gov.bc.ca to receive Traffic Alerts, Construction Bulletins and Community Updates.
In addition to road widening, construction is underway to install underground power supply lines in Port Moody and Coquitlam. The power supply will be required to operate the Evergreen Line when it opens. Opening is calendared for the late summer of 2016.
In November 2011, the Province issued the Request for Proposals to design and build the Evergreen Line and will select a primary contractor this summer.
Evergreen Line construction will create 8,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Quote:
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Blair Lekstrom -
"Widening North Road is an important part of the Evergreen Line project because it will help keep traffic moving during major construction. Residents and businesses can call our traffic information line and view traffic information on the Evergreen Line website for updates. One of our key goals is to provide information to the public while construction is underway."
Learn More:
BC Bid: www.bcbid.gov.bc.ca
Evergreen Line: www.evergreenline.gov.bc.ca
Evergreen Line on Facebook: www.facebook.com/evergreenline
Evergreen Line on Twitter: @TranBC
A backgrounder follows.
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect
BACKGROUNDER
May 3, 2012 Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Facts about the Evergreen Line
The Evergreen Line will be an 11-kilometre rapid transit line that will connect Coquitlam to Vancouver via Port Moody and Burnaby.
Why the Evergreen Line matters:
* More transit options with faster, more frequent and more efficient service, especially for commuters in the northeast sector.
* More economic opportunities for businesses near the Evergreen Line route and stations.
* 8,000 direct and indirect jobs from construction.
* Frequent service - every three minutes during peak periods and service almost 20 hours a day.
* Faster travel time - 15 minutes from Coquitlam City Centre to Lougheed Town Centre.
* From Coquitlam City Centre to Vancouver in 40 minutes, saving almost 45 minutes per day compared to driving.
* Direct connection without transfer to the Millennium Line.
* Projected ridership of 70,000 per day by 2021.
Funding for the Evergreen Line:
* The total project cost for the Evergreen Line is estimated to be $1.4 billion.
* Funding is being provided by the Province of British Columbia, the Government of Canada and TransLink.
* The Province is contributing $583 million and will also oversee construction of the project.
* The Government of Canada is contributing up to $417 million.
* TransLink is contributing $400 million and will operate the Evergreen Line when it is complete.
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect
]]>The Old Cariboo Highway to Sintich Road project will widen approximately 3.5 km of Highway 97 to four lanes, and includes intersection improvements along the corridor. Work is scheduled to begin this year with completion anticipated in summer 2013.
This expansion will tie into the existing five km of four-laning from Simon Fraser Bridge to Sintich Road, completed in 2010 as part of Phase 1 of the Cariboo Connector program.
The provincial government is investing $200 million over the next five years for Phase 2 of the Cariboo Connector. It is a key part of the new Pacific Gateway Transportation Strategy that commits $700 million over the next five years to increase capacity on key provincial highways to support trade and economic growth.
At the completion of these nine new projects, almost 50 per cent of the 440-km highway between Cache Creek and Prince George will be either three or four lanes wide, improving the safety and mobility of this important corridor.
Quotes:
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Blair Lekstrom -
"We will have shovels in the ground this summer on Phase 2 of our program to widen Highway 97 to four lanes. This project will improve safety and add capacity to the highway near the southern approach to Prince George, increase access to the Prince George Airport, and create a large number of jobs for the North."
Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond -
"The Cariboo Connector is a critical highway and ongoing investment will allow for Phase 2 work to begin this summer. The first of nine projects will continue four-laning and include intersection improvements to enhance safety and efficiency."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
Read about the Pacific Gateway Transportation Strategy 2012-2020 at: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/ourprogress/building-markets-growing-jobs/
Learn more about the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure at: www.tranbc.ca
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure urges you to be prepared for spring driving conditions by checking DriveBC before leaving on a trip.
Heavy snowfall this winter has resulted in the fifth-highest snowpack in the province since the 1950s. Several days of warm weather have led to high snowmelt rates and quick moving rivers and streams in parts of B.C. This, combined with saturated hillsides, caused six washouts on provincial roads this past week.
Motorists are asked to drive with caution and look for pooling water in low-lying areas, near creek and river crossings. Motorists can check current highway conditions on the Drive BC website.
Motorists can also see the highway conditions in real time, with 200 highway webcams strategically placed throughout the province. All this information is available online at: http://drivebc.ca
Another way to "know before you go" is to follow DriveBC and TranBC on Twitter and get up-to-date information on your desktop or your mobile phone.
These Twitter feeds are available at: http://twitter.com/tranbc and http://twitter.com/drivebc
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
]]>
In the Capital Region, webcams are coming to the intersection of Highway 1 and Admirals/McKenzie, and Highway 1 at the Colwood Interchange. The Province is also installing a webcam on Highway 1 at Cobble Hill/Cowichan Lake Road, and on Highway 4 at the Tofino/Ucluelet junction.
These 30 new webcams, along with the addition of a number of construction cameras from around the province, will bring the number of webcam images available on DriveBC to over 250. Installations are scheduled to begin this spring, and it is anticipated all will be in operation before winter.
Priority for new web cameras is given to routes prone to extreme weather or traffic congestion, and for sites where there isn't already a nearby webcam.
To help ensure easier, safer trips, DriveBC provides timely road condition updates, travel advisories, road closure information for provincial highways, weather information and other important links to the travelling public.
Quotes:
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"The popularity of DriveBC shows that drivers are making smart choices before they leave on a trip. It is important to know what the road conditions are like along your route, and these new webcams give motorists an excellent tool to help them plan a safe journey."
Minister of Justice and Attorney General Shirley Bond -
"DriveBC's new webcams give motorists the opportunity to find out road and traffic conditions in real-time so they can plan their trip before they leave. The cameras play an important role in keeping families safe on our roads."
Oak Bay-Gordon Head MLA Ida Chong -
"It's clear that the DriveBC program has been a resounding success in the Capital Region and across the province. These new webcams will help local residents ensure that their travel plans are safe and efficient."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
See DriveBC's webcam images at: www.drivebc.ca
Follow the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca
A backgrounder follows.
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
BACKGROUNDER
April 25, 2012 Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Confirmed 2012 web camera locations
South Coast/Fraser Valley/Vancouver Island:
Highway 1 at Admirals Road and McKenzie Avenue, Saanich
Highway 1 at Colwood Interchange, View Royal
Highway 1 at Annis Road, Chilliwack
Highway 1 at Highway 5 and 3 junction, Exit 177, Hope
Highway 1 at Jackass Mtn. Summit
Highway 1 at Cobble Hill/Cowichan Lake Road
Highway 3 at Highway 5, near Hope
Highway 3 at Sunday Summit
Highway 4 at Tofino/Ucluelet Junction
Highway 9 at Agassiz-Rosedale Bridge
Highway 14 east of Port Renfrew
Highway 19 at Highway 30 south of Port Hardy
Highway 19 at French Creek
Southern and Central Interior:
Highway 1 Silver Sands/Sorrento area
Highway 3 between 3 and 3B (Bombi Pass)
Highway 3A at Balfour Ferry Terminal
Highway 3A at Nelson
Highway 3A at Devito Road, Trail
Highway 5 at or near Barriere
Highway 5/16 at Tete Jaune Cache
Highway 23 at Galena Bay Ferry
Highway 24 west of Little Fort
Highway 97 Summerland/Trout Creek area
Highway 97 between Williams Lake and Quesnel
Northern Interior: Highway 16 between Kitwanga and Terrace
Highway 16 between Terrace and Smithers
Highway 29 at Hudson's Hope
Highway 37 between Kitwanga and Dease Lake
Highway 113 near New Aiyansh
Highway 118 at Granisle Highway
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
In the Northwest, webcams are coming to Highway 16 between Kitwanga and Terrace and between Terrace and Smithers, and to Highway 37 between Kitwanga and Dease Lake. The Province is also adding webcams in the New Aiyansh and Granisle areas.
These 30 new webcams, along with the addition of a number of construction cameras from around the province, will bring the number of webcam images available on DriveBC to over 250, with 38 of these in Northern B.C. Installations are scheduled to begin this spring, and it is anticipated all will be in operation before winter.
Priority for new web cameras is given to routes prone to extreme weather or traffic congestion, and for sites where there isn't already a nearby webcam.
To help ensure easier, safer trips, DriveBC provides timely road condition updates, travel advisories, road closure information for provincial highways, weather information and other important links to the travelling public.
Quotes:
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"The popularity of DriveBC shows that drivers are making smart choices before they leave on a trip. It is important to know what the road conditions are like along your route, and these new webcams give motorists an excellent tool to help them plan a safe journey."
Minister of Justice and Attorney General Shirley Bond -
"DriveBC's new webcams give motorists the opportunity to find out road and traffic conditions in real-time so they can plan their trip before they leave. The cameras are particularly important in areas like the North where the weather can change very quickly."
Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad -
"We live in an area with often adverse weather conditions. The addition of three new webcams will help motorists plan ahead. It's always better to 'know before you go'."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
See DriveBC's webcam images at: www.drivebc.ca
Follow the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca
A backgrounder follows.
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
BACKGROUNDER
April 25, 2012 Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Confirmed 2012 web camera locations
Northern Interior:
Highway 16 between Kitwanga and Terrace
Highway 16 between Terrace and Smithers
Highway 29 at Hudson's Hope
Highway 37 between Kitwanga and Dease Lake
Highway 113 near New Aiyansh
Highway 118 at Granisle Highway
Southern and Central Interior:
Highway 1 Silver Sands/Sorrento area
Highway 3 between 3 and 3B (Bombi Pass)
Highway 3A at Balfour Ferry Terminal
Highway 3A at Nelson
Highway 3A at Devito Road, Trail
Highway 5 at or near Barriere
Highway 5/16 at Tete Jaune Cache
Highway 23 at Galena Bay Ferry
Highway 24 west of Little Fort
Highway 97 Summerland/Trout Creek area
Highway 97 between Williams Lake and Quesnel
South Coast/Fraser Valley/Vancouver Island:
Highway 1 at Admirals Road and McKenzie Avenue, Saanich
Highway 1 at Colwood Interchange, View Royal
Highway 1 at Annis Road, Chilliwack
Highway 1 at Highway 5 and 3 junction, Exit 177, Hope
Highway 1 at Jackass Mtn. Summit
Highway 1 at Cobble Hill/Cowichan Lake Road
Highway 3 at Highway 5, near Hope
Highway 3 at Sunday Summit
Highway 4 at Tofino/Ucluelet Junction
Highway 9 at Agassiz-Rosedale Bridge
Highway 14 east of Port Renfrew
Highway 19 at Highway 30 south of Port Hardy
Highway 19 at French Creek
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
With new webcams, motorists will be able to check traffic and weather conditions at the ferry terminals at Balfour (Highway 3A) and Galena Bay (Highway 23). A camera will be added to Highway 3A at Nelson and to Highway 3 in the Bombi Pass.
These 30 new webcams, along with the addition of a number of construction cameras from around the province, will bring the number of webcam images available on DriveBC to over 250. Installations are scheduled to begin this spring, and it is anticipated all will be in operation before winter.
Priority for new web cameras is given to routes prone to extreme weather or traffic congestion, and for sites where there is not already a nearby webcam.
To help ensure easier, safer trips, DriveBC provides timely road condition updates, travel advisories, road closure information for provincial highways, weather information and other important links to the travelling public.
Quotes:
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -
"The popularity of DriveBC shows that drivers are making smart choices before they leave on a trip. It is important to know what the road conditions are like along your route, and these new webcams give motorists an excellent tool to help them plan a safe journey."
Minister of Justice and Attorney General Shirley Bond -
"DriveBC's new webcams give motorists the opportunity to find out road and traffic conditions in real-time so they can plan their trip before they leave. The cameras play an important role in keeping families safe on our roads."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
See DriveBC's webcam images at: www.drivebc.ca
Follow the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca
A backgrounder follows.
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241
BACKGROUNDER
April 25, 2012 Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Confirmed 2012 web camera locations
Southern and Central Interior:
Highway 1 Silver Sands/Sorrento area
Highway 3 between 3 and 3B (Bombi Pass)
Highway 3A at Balfour Ferry Terminal
Highway 3A at Nelson
Highway 3A at Devito Road, Trail
Highway 5 at or near Barriere
Highway 5/16 at Tete Jaune Cache
Highway 23 at Galena Bay Ferry
Highway 24 west of Little Fort
Highway 97 Summerland/Trout Creek area
Highway 97 between Williams Lake and Quesnel
South Coast/Fraser Valley/Vancouver Island:
Highway 1 at Admirals Road and McKenzie Avenue, Saanich
Highway 1 at Colwood Interchange, View Royal
Highway 1 at Annis Road, Chilliwack
Highway 1 at Highway 5 and 3 junction, Exit 177, Hope
Highway 1 at Jackass Mtn. Summit
Highway 1 at Cobble Hill/Cowichan Lake Road
Highway 3 at Highway 5, near Hope
Highway 3 at Sunday Summit
Highway 4 at Tofino/Ucluelet Junction
Highway 9 at Agassiz-Rosedale Bridge
Highway 14 east of Port Renfrew
Highway 19 at Highway 30 south of Port Hardy
Highway 19 at French Creek
Northern Interior:
Highway 16 between Kitwanga and Terrace
Highway 16 between Terrace and Smithers
Highway 29 at Hudson's Hope
Highway 37 between Kitwanga and Dease Lake
Highway 113 near New Aiyansh
Highway 118 at Granisle Highway
Contact:
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241