Hudson’s Hope Mayor Travous Quibell is raising concerns about highway safety in northeast BC.
Hudson’s Hope relies heavily on Highway 29 every day, as it is the main route to Fort St. John, the region’s largest centre.
Quibell points to three specific areas of concern on highway 29 that are causing major safety issues.
The first two concern Halfway Hill, specifically on the west face and east face of the highway.
Quibell says the west face is sliding, making the road extremely steep and narrow. “The road is less than two lanes wide at its narrowest,” he said.
The mayor adds the conditions have likely contributed to many of the accidents and road closures this winter.
The east face is facing a similar problem. The hill is also sliding, affecting the alignment of the road.
However, Quibell says that section received culverts last year, which help support the road and improve water control.
Quibell says the Halfway Hill has been an issue for as long as he can remember, adding “it has been a regular topic of council discussion and lobbying to the provincial government over my entire political career.”
The third area of concern is Cache Creek Hill, locally known as the switchbacks.
“Cache Creek Hill has issues with sliding and lacks proper passing lanes,” the mayor explained.
The long, steep hill lacks chain-up areas and becomes dangerous to circulate during winter months.
Quibell says he’s asking the province to make Highway 29 a priority, stating it is not “an unreasonable ask.”
He says the highway does not receive enough attention due to Hudson’s Hope’s smaller population, despite the road being relied upon by residents and industrial traffic every day.
One Hudson’s Hope resident, Lynnea Kortzman Stacey, says she uses the road for work and amenities.
“That road is a goat trail, and it’s unbelievable and unacceptable that people have to risk their lives using it,” she said.
The Ministry of Transportation has committed funding to maintain basic activity on the road.
Nonetheless, Quibell is asking for long-term commitment from the province to reconstruct the highway and improve safety for residents.
-Noah Abel CJDC
Add comment
Comments