Highway 1 between Lytton and Spences Bridge will partially open on Friday, Jan. 14, according the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
There was significant damage reported at 15 sites on the highway between Hope and Spences Bridge, including at Tank Hill east of Lytton.
“Since then, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and its partners have worked to clear, repair, and re-open the highway, ensuring environmental and cultural protocols are followed at each work site,” a statement from MOTI said.
“Many sections of the highway are operational with temporary access as we design and plan construction on permanent solutions over the long term.”
Brad Bushill, Thompson Nicola Operations Manager for the Ministry says the highway will be open to both personal and commercial vehicles, up to 25 metres in length, owing to the winding nature of the road.
Drivers can also expect delays of up to two-hours over the regular travel time from Hope to Spences Bridge because of an at-grade rail crossing at Tank Hill, single-lane sections of the highway, reduced speed limits, and travel advisories – much like what is in place on the Coquihalla between Hope and Merritt, which is only open to commercial traffic and inter-city buses.
The section of Highway 1 between Lytton and Hope is still closed.
“Record snowfalls and current avalanche risks have delayed work in the area of Jackass Mountain,” the statement noted. “Once the snow is cleared and avalanche risks subside, our crews will resume work in this area.”
Back in December, B.C. Transportation Minister, Rob Fleming, said Highway 1 in the Fraser Canyon was still on track for a mid-January opening.