Commuting for more than 35,000 travellers will soon improve after a company based in Nanaimo was awarded a $15 million contract to complete the repairs needed along the Malahat Tunnel Hill segment of the Trans Canada Highway (HWY 1).
In November 2021, both directions of the Malahat were closed due to extreme flooding after heavy rainfall hit British Columbia causing significant damage to the highway.
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In the week following the flooding, the affected section of Highway 1 was closed overnight for repairs.
In March 2022, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure announced the Malahat Tunnel Hill Washout Repair Project tender was up for bid.
Now, the $14.9 million contract has been finalized and awarded to Windley Contracting, with construction slated to start this summer.
The contract includes restoring approximately 50 metres of the northbound lane north of Finlayson Arm Road as well as repairing damage to existing drainage and slope stability.
In addition, an 80-metre retaining wall will also be replaced to secure the slope against future extreme rain events.
“This first contract award for permanent repairs following last fall’s catastrophic flooding marks an important milestone as the province continues to build back better,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
“The Malahat is a critical connection for residents, businesses, emergency services and the transportation of goods between the mid-Island and the Capital Region. This project ensures safety for drivers and increases resiliency during future extreme climate events.”
In order to maintain traffic movement in both directions during daytime travel hours, efforts will be made to complete work during the next when possible with advance notice of any traffic disruptions provided.
Construction is expected to finish in summer 2023.
For up to date driving conditions, drivers can visit the Drive BC website.
