Repairs on Coquihalla between Hope and Merritt to take months
Posted November 18, 2021 5:44 pm.
Last Updated November 18, 2021 9:06 pm.
It’s going to be months before anyone will be able to drive on Coquihalla between Hope and Merritt, according to an update from B.C. officials Thursday.
Minister of Transportation Rob Fleming says even temporary repairs are going to take a while after huge sections of the major route were destroyed by floodwaters.
He says crews will be mindful of the weather conditions and temporary fixes and/or alternate routes will be made to help restore the route.
This is the #Coquihalla #BCHwy5 at Juliet
Via @DriveBC – closed between #HopeBC and #Merrit due to mudslide at Exit 202 (11 km south of Great Bear Snowshed). Assessment in progress. Estimated time of opening not available. Detour not available. https://t.co/KGgN8ntK7f pic.twitter.com/8mpNvy6KcS— BC Transportation (@TranBC) November 17, 2021
During a press conference Thursday, Paula Cousins with the Ministry of Transportation said, “We can confirm temporary repairs are going to take months.”
“Our crews are preparing site plans to begin temporary repairs. While engineering, procurement and construction experts work to determine the best and fastest way to restore the corridor to its prevent conditions,” she added.
However, the exact timeline is unknown.
The province says while there is significant damage and debris on Highways 3 and 99, they will be easier to repair and open to at least essential travel in the short term.
