The BC Trucking Association (BCTA) is pleased the Province is investing $200 million in Phase 2 of the Cariboo Connector, to include nine new four-lane expansion projects over the next five years for Highway 97 between Cache Creek and Prince George.
“Highway 97 is a busy route for carriers moving all types of goods through Northern BC and the Interior. Four-laning of strategic sections reduces congestion, increasing efficiency for motor carriers and improving safety for all road users,” says Louise Yako, BCTA’s president & CEO. “Increased capacity is welcome, especially as the industry looks at ways to meet the challenges of B.C.’s growing trade with Asia.”
As part of the $700 million investment the Province announced on April 2, 2012, for increased capacity on key highways and railways in B.C., these projects tie in to a long-term vision of prosperity for B.C. that the trucking industry shares. According to Yako, “On their own, these four-laning projects add up to 30 km, but they are part of a broader plan to prepare B.C. for the exciting opportunities that increased trade will bring.”
Four-laning also helps to reduce conflicts that can occur between commercial and passenger vehicles on two-lane highways, especially during winter. “Safety is a top priority for BCTA,” adds Yako. “We look forward to the improvements that will result from ongoing strategic investment in B.C.’s highway infrastructure.”