Travelling for the long weekend? Expect delays, transport ministry says

If you’re planning to head out of the Lower Mainland this weekend, the provincial transport ministry has a warning for you: expect delays.

As the August long weekend ushers in B.C. Day Monday, major highways and ferry routes are expected to be full.

For drivers, the main road to the Interior, the Coquihalla Highway 5, is going to be backed up Friday night and Monday afternoon.

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“We are expecting heavy traffic volumes between Hope and Merritt this weekend,” Katie Ward, with the ministry of transportation, said. “There are special events along the corridor that will add to that traffic.”

Looking at past long weekends, Ward told CityNews that travellers should expect delays of two or three hours.

“Be prepared for an unplanned delay. Pack water, ensure your fuel’s topped up, [and you have] any snacks or anything you need.”

Reservations for most BC Ferries sailings between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island are booked up, as of Friday night.

On Monday, ferry conditions are expected to be a touch worse for those without a reservation, as the Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay route has fewer sailings than normally scheduled.

BC Ferries has been struggling with staffing shortages, and say they are working at maximum capacity.

For more information about possible highway delays, visit DriveBC. For ferry information, visit BC Ferries Current Conditions.