A new wildlife overpass is being installed along a BC Highway that is prone to many vehicle-wildlife collisions.
On Friday, BC’s Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure said a new overpass will be constructed south of Radium Hot Springs.
The project will “significantly” decrease vehicle collisions with bighorn sheep, enhancing safety along Highway 93/95.
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In July 2023, Teck Resources announced a $2.5 million investment towards another wildlife overpass.
At that time, conservation groups said the Radium herd is one of the last viable herds of bighorn sheep in the area.
Unfortunately, about 10% of the herd is killed annually by collisions with vehicles. The population dropped from approximately 230 sheep in 2003 to 120 in 2019.
The project announced on May 24 will include a 30-metre-wide steel and concrete arch overpass.
About six kilometres of wildlife fencing and gates will also be constructed to guide animals towards the overpass, a news release says.
The project is expected to be completed by June 2025.
“Hanna Infrastructure Limited has been awarded a $5.8-million contract for the overpass construction, while the Shuswap Band’s construction company will build the fencing and gates,” the release says.
"The Ktunaxa Nation Council has completed tree clearing for the fence."
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