Highways in northwest British Columbia, a key mining area in the province, are getting a $195 million upgrade with funding facilities through the federal Critical Minerals Infrastructure fund.
The federal government is contributing up to $75 million, with an additional $120 million provided by B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. The funds are specifically earmarked for upgrading Highways 37, 37A, and 51, covering around 800 km. Planned improvements include widening shoulders, creating pullouts for slow-moving vehicles, establishing chain-up/chain-off areas, and enhancing Wi-Fi access along these routes.
The upgrades are crucial for accommodating increased industrial traffic associated with mining operations in B.C.’s Golden Triangle region. They aim to enhance safety, reliability, and accessibility of essential services to support local communities and economic growth.
The initiative is expected to create up to 3,000 jobs during construction, attract $20 billion in capital investments, and contribute over $450 million annually in mineral taxes. Both governments noted the developments also promise substantial revenue-sharing opportunities and economic prospects for local Indigenous communities.
The work is scheduled to start this year and wrap up by 2030.
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