Some residents who live along the Highway 8 corridor between Merritt and Spences Bridge will soon be allowed access to their homes, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure said Wednesday.

That is as temporary work has been completed at three sites. Crews are currently working at seven sites, with work planned at 13 others in the near future.

“We have successfully completed temporary repairs at Curnow Bridge and at two locations 18.5km and 22km west of Mamit Junction,” a statement from MOTI said. “We have cleared debris and repaired infrastructure to make it safe for temporary access.

“As an example, Curnow Bridge experienced significant erosion damage in Nov. 2021. We placed riprap to protect against further erosion and completed temporary shoring of the abutment, making it safe for temporary use.”

“We are working on forecasting the long-term repair schedule for Highway 8, which we will share with residents as soon as possible,” the statement added.

A number of residents on that highway corridor, which was also significantly damaged by flooding in November, had to flee their homes at a moment’s notice, according to Thompson Nicola Regional District Area Director, Steven Rice.

As crews make progress in restoring highway access, there will be checkpoints established to limit access to residents of the Shackan and Cook’s Ferry Indian Bands, as well as the TNRD, allowing them to return to their properties.

Residents hoping to request such a pass – or those seeking more information – are being told to contact the TNRD or their band office.

There is currently no date when Highway 8 could reopen.