Another week has zipped past us and is now settling into our rear view mirror. If you blinked you might have missed the news about exotic YVR arrivals and milestones on the Port Mann Bridge / Highway 1 Project. Or you might not have heard the word about road resurfacing in the Kootenays and improved mobility on Highway 16. Want the scoop? Here’s the list for more information:
- YVR welcomed the first direct flight linking North America and China’s interior province of Sichuan this week – The inaugural flight of Sichuan Airlines’ service between Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Chengdu, via Shenyang, marks the start of the airline’s service to British Columbia. This new connection is North America’s first and only direct flight to China’s Interior and will boost tourism, give more choices to travellers and help the economy.
- Port Mann Bridge reaches major milestone - The final, centre gap in the new Port Mann Bridge was closed, a major construction milestone that completes the bridge deck and superstructure required to open the bridge to traffic this December. When the new bridge opens, drivers can expect to save up to an hour off their daily commutes.
- West Kootenays highways on the road to improvement - This summer, key sections of provincial highway and local side roads in the West Kootenay region will be resurfaced to improve safety and travel for local residents, tourists and commercial vehicles.
- Community engagement on Coastal Ferries to begin this summer - The B.C. government has begun the process of public engagement on coastal ferry services by issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP). This RFP is the first step in the provincial government’s commitment to seek public input on strategies to support its long-term vision of connecting coastal communities in an affordable, efficient and sustainable manner. The consultant will also work with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure on a community engagement process to discuss service adjustments with coastal communities. The RFP is posted on BC Bid.
- Highway 16 east of Prince George will get more passing room - An additional 700 meters of eastbound passing lane will be added to Highway 16, located 30 kilometers east of Prince George, near the Tabor Mountain Ski Hill.
- DriveBC keeps an eye on the Kootenays - Another three of the 30 new webcams to be installed this year on the DriveBC network are now live, giving motorists a real-time view of weather and road conditions on provincial highways near the communities of Nelson, Creston and Trail.
Now that you are up to speed on the latest news, we hope you have a chance to hit the highway this weekend . Safe travels!
