Construction is expected to start in August on a $19 million improvement to a high-collision section of Highway 97, just east of Quesnel.
On Thursday, the B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure announced it will be widening a 1.1-kilometre section of Highway 97 in the area of Dragon Lake. In addition, improvements are planned at two intersections in the area.
"Traffic signals will be installed at the intersection of Highway 97 and Racing Road/Dragon Hill Road, which has a historically high collision rate," a ministry statement said. "The addition of signals will improve safety for all road users and provide better access to the local road network and adjacent businesses."
A southbound left turn lane and from Highway 97 onto Quesnel Hydraulic Road is planned, along with other improvements to the intersection.
A centre median will be installed between the intersections and LED streetlights will improve visibility. Improvements are also planned to the storm water drainage in the area, to remove surface water efficiently.
Utility relocations have already begun and construction is expected to start in August and be completed by the fall of 2022, the ministry statement said.
"The ministry has investigated and confirmed the nearby Red Bluff slide will not impact this project," the government statement said.
The federal government contributed $7.7 million to the project, through the New Building Canada Fund.
