It’s been nearly two years since spring flooding heavily damaged five sections of West Fraser Road south of Quesnel.
Since then, residents, including those of the ?Esdilagh First Nation, have had to endure a lengthy detour to reach school and the City.
“There has been a significant impact to our community since the washout of the West Fraser Road. With the washout, we travel a longer distance to get to Quesnel and our children have had to endure additional travel time to get to school, reducing their time at home,” said Chief Roy Stump and Councillors William Baptiste, Howard Johnny and Chad Stump in a news release.
There’s relief in sight now that the provincial government has commited to rebuild and realign the route, replacing the heavily damaged road.
“I appreciate people’s patience throughout this very challenging time. The ministry continues to work on maintaining the alternative route, while ensuring safe travel through the area by building a new road,” said transportation minister Claire Trevena.
The project will include construction of five kilometres of two-lane road on a new alignment, a new bridge crossing Narcosli Creek, and rock stabilization work along the new route.
The province will hold a public information session in spring 2020 to share the finalized design and project timelines.
Construction is expected to begin later this year with completion slated for late 2022.
