Work on two improvement projects on vital highway links through the East Kootenay, worth a combined $4.5 million, is now complete, Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett announced today (Nov. 23).

Asphalt resurfacing Highway 43

Sixteen km of Highway 43, from the intersection of Highway 3 and Highway 43 to Line Creek Road, was resurfaced. Portions of Lower Elk Valley Road, Savaire Frontage Road and Hidden Springs Road were also resurfaced as part of this project.  A contract valued at just over $3 million was awarded to Okanagan Aggregates of Armstrong for the resurfacing work.

Asphalt Resurfacing Highway 3/Highway 95

Approximately six km of highway between the Cranbrook Overhead and the Fort Steele Overhead was resurfaced. This work included repairs to the highway shoulder and improvements to strengthen the road base where necessary.  A $1.5-million contract was awarded to Okanagan Aggregates of Armstrong for the resurfacing work.

It will also provide area residents and tourists with better access to a variety of recreational opportunities in the Rocky Mountains. Resurfacing this section of Highway 3/Highway 95 will benefit area residents, providing tourists and commercial transport vehicles a safer and smoother ride.

The Highway 43 overlay will increase safety, mobility and reliability for all users, including those who access the Elk Lakes Provincial Park, the Height of the Rockies Wilderness Area along the continental divide, the world class fly-fishing on the Elk River, and the local ski hill.

“Both of these highways were starting to show the signs of the wear and tear our heavy traffic volume causes. The resurfacing work, although it cost $4.5 million, is well worth it because now these much-used roads are safer for all of us,” stated  MLA Bennett.

Above photo: $4.5 million improves highway safety – Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett and Gord Chudleigh, of the Ministry of Transport, celebrate the completion of two projects in the region.

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