Storm-shattered Highway 8 reopens between Merritt and Spences Bridge, nearly a year later

Another B.C. highway left severely damaged by a series of atmospheric rivers last fall has finally reopened, although the fixes are not completely done.

The area between Merritt and Spences Bridge has reopened, after more than 25 sections of Highway 8 were washed away, and several areas were completely flooded during the storms last November.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure says the highway is now open, and will help restore “connectivity to residents, Indigenous communities and the local forestry and mining industries.

Highway 8 — the link between Merritt and Spences Bridge — is now open to the public. Thank you to everyone who has worked countless hours over the last year to reconnect people and communities. Together, we can get through anything. #BCFlood https://t.co/nhyR4u7FTQ pic.twitter.com/G8Pv4vN8UE

— BC Government News (@BCGovNews) November 9, 2022

“From the first day of the atmospheric river, people have gone above and beyond to help us to reach this important milestone,” Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure said in a news release.

“Reopening Highway 8 reconnects rural communities, allows residents to return home and improves transportation access for various sectors, such as forestry, mining and ranching,” the ministry said.

Although the highway is open, it is still under construction, and workers will continue to finish repairs, requiring intermittent closures and reduced speed limits.

“We all owe a huge debt of gratitude for the impressive work that crews and staff have done to reconnect the people and communities along Highway 8,” Fleming added.

With files from Maria Vinca