Heads up commuters travelling to and from the Saanich Peninsula.
Construction of a new overpass at Pat Bay Hwy (Highway 17) and Keating Cross Road is expected to begin in the coming weeks.
The BC government confirmed it was committing $57.6 million to the Highway 17 Keating Cross Overpass—a $76.8-million project delivered in partnership with the Government of Canada and the District of Central Saanich.
According to the province, the northbound left turn onto Keating Cross Road will be replaced with a flyover overpass to improve access, reduce traffic delays and eliminate the need to turn across highway traffic.
The major project will also see the following enhancements:
- Installation of bus-on-shoulder facilities that support future plans for bus rapid transit on the Patricia Bay Highway
- Realignment of the southbound on-ramp to Victoria to make it safer for drivers getting onto the highway
- Widening of Keating Cross Road and construction of a new sidewalk on one side to support active transportation, such as biking or walking
In addition, the province says the project will also prompt closures on Highway 17 at East Saanich Road, Martindale Road and Danica Place “to improve safety for all travellers.”
“This overpass will provide a critical connection between Highway 17 and Keating Cross Road, improving safety and accessibility for commuters, travellers and businesses in this growing region,” said Rob Fleming, BC Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
A $54.5-million contract for the project has been awarded to FlatIron Constructors Canada Limited based out of Richmond.
“The new overpass will eliminate the need for a dangerous turn across oncoming highway traffic, support future bus rapid transit and promote economic growth in and around the Keating business district, one of the region’s most important and fastest-growing job centres.”
Construction of the overpass is expected to begin in the coming weeks and is anticipated to be complete in spring 2025.
If you’re wondering what your future commute could look like on the Pat Bay Highway, check out these 3D video renderings:
Keating Cross Overpass Keating WB
Keating Cross Overpass Keating EB
Keating Cross Overpass Flyover
Keating Cross Overpass Hwy 17 SB
Keating Cross Overpass Hwy 17 NB
 and Keating Cross Road is expected to begin in the coming weeks.){kind=link}