B.C. Government embarks on most expensive highway expansion in Canadian history

The B.C. Provincial Government announced on Friday that it is investing $469.4 million into expanding and upgrading two major sections of the TransCanada Highway between Kamloops and the Alberta border.

Out of this investment, $450 million will go towards the final phase of the Kicking Horse Canyon project just east of Golden, and the remaining $19.4 million will go towards expanding the portion of highway between Donald Weigh Scale and Forde Station Road to include four lanes.

According to Todd Stone, the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, this construction could be the most expansive in Canadian history.

"The most expensive highway construction project not just in British Columbia's history, but we think likely in Canadian history.” Said Stone. “At just over 110 million dollars per kilometre."

Out of the $469 million dollar investment, the B.C. Government is providing up to $247 million while the Government of Canada is providing up to $222 million.

Despite the heavy price tag, the project is expected to create 1400 jobs - many from Kamloops - and reduce traffic congestion along the Transcanada Highway.

Additionally, according to Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, the new projects will benefit all British Columbians as well as tourists.

“The Government of Canada recognizes that strategic investments in public infrastructure help connect people, and create growth and middle-class jobs,” said Sohi. “This major transportation infrastructure project in British Columbia will benefit residents, businesses, and tourists, while fostering long-term prosperity across the region. We will continue working in close collaboration with British Columbia to ensure we make smart infrastructure investments that help build the Canada of tomorrow.”

Once completed, the B.C. Government is expecting the two sections of the TransCanada Highway to be much safer and less congested.