It’s been 329 days (or if you really want to impress your friends, 7869 hours) since Mckenzie Interchange construction began on September 29th, and – unlike one of Victoria’s other infrastructure projects – this project appears to be coming along relatively smoothly.
In fact, the city just awarded it’s second and final contract for the McKenzie Interchange project. Work is set to begin this fall.
The arrangement encompasses all of the remaining work: lowering the Trans-Canada Highway, constructing the ramps, overpass, the new pedestrian-cyclist bridge, and adding the finishing landscaping touches.
“A tremendous amount of progress can be seen on-site and awarding the second contract is another milestone step towards completing this interchange project,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Claire Trevena.
“[The Mckenzie Interchange] will improve traffic flow in the Capital Regional District, reduce collisions, and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.”
Progress is obvious, but plenty of work to be done
The original completion date of late 2018 has been pushed back, with mainly due to this past winter’s challenging weather conditions.
More time was required to allow preloaded materials to settle before subsequent construction activities could occur. The timeline was also adjusted to lessen both traffic and noise impacts in consideration of nearby residents.
The new interchange is expected to open to traffic by summer 2019, with final activities continuing through the subsequent winter.
The Facts:
- Westpro, a division of Pomerleau Inc., has been awarded the $42.6-million contract and will begin work in early fall.
- The total cost of the project is still projected to be $85-million.
- The Government of Canada is contributing up to $33.6-million.
- The Government of British Columbia is funding the remaining $52.4-million.
- Project updates are here.
- Travel alerts are here.
