The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has undertaken work to reduce the chance of rock fall at the Elko Tunnel on Highway 3, approximately 12 kilometres east of Elko and 16 km west of Fernie.

Crews will be doing rock scaling on the slopes at either end of the tunnel to remove loose rocks. In addition, mesh structures will be installed on rock slopes above Elko Tunnel portals to prevent rock falls. The $550,000 project will be completed by the end of October.

As part of the work, portions of the interior of the Elko tunnel susceptible to erosion will be lined with concrete.

“The work done on this project will reduce the chance of falling rock at the Elko Tunnel, improving safety for all motorists travelling on Highway 3. I look forward to seeing the completion of this important project at the end of the month,” said Bill Bennett, MLA for Kootenay East.

There will be minor delays for in both directions for rock scaling, for the duration of the project. Motorists should check DriveBC for details at www.drivebc.ca .

The $550,000 contract for the work has been awarded to Neds Creek Blasting Ltd. from Kamloops.

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