A repaired section of Highway 8 crossing the Nicola River. (Photo via TranBC)
Almost a year after it washed out, the BC Government says Highway 8 between Merritt and Spences Bridge is now open to all vehicle traffic.
“From the first day of the atmospheric river, people have gone above and beyond to help us to reach this important milestone,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
“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.”
Heavy rain last November washed out more than 25 sections of Highway 8 and rerouted some sections of the Nicola River, cutting off access to residents on the Nooaitch, Shackan, and Cook’s Ferry First Nations.
In all, more than seven kilometres of Highway 8 was completely washed away.
Wednesday’s update comes about seven weeks after the highway was opened to residents who live along the corridor.
“Some of it in very good condition, some of it in fairly rudimentary condition but the good news is for those who especially have been waiting to get back to the their homes, they can do that,” Fleming said, at the time.
He also cautions that Highway 8 is still an active construction zone with crews now turning to permanent repair work.
“Some sections of the highway have reduced speed limits and differing surface materials, including sections of gravel road, making the highway unsuitable for motorcycles,” a ministry statement said. “Ongoing construction will lead to delays and intermittent closures.”
They also note that Highway 8 would not be a suitable detour should either the Trans-Canada Highway or the Coquihalla Highway be closed this winter. Should that happen, access to Highway 8 would be limited to residents only.
There is no word on when permanent repairs will be complete, with Fleming noting that the province has spent about $250 million on repairs to Highway 1, Highway 8, and the Coquihalla. About $100 million of that was spent on repairs to Highway 8.
Good news!#BCHwy8 between #Merritt and #SpencesBridge is now open to all vehicle traffic.
News release with details: https://t.co/ZdDfhdukvg pic.twitter.com/3OFjnhfE01— BC Transportation (@TranBC) November 9, 2022
