The Province has announced it is committing $57.6 million toward the Keating Cross Overpass Project that will be built along the Patricia Bay Highway.
The aim of the project is to improve safety and traffic flow for drivers travelling along Highway 17 by replacing the northbound left-turn lane onto Keating Cross Road with a flyover overpass.
Along with the Province’s $57.6 million, the federal government will be contributing up to $16.7 million for the project, which is estimated to cost $76.8-million in total. The remaining funds will be delivered from the District of Central Saanich.
The flyover overpass will eliminate the need to turn across the southbound lanes, while also reducing congestion in the Keating Cross Road area.
READ MORE: Province seeks feedback on Patricia Bay Highway flyover project
“Investments in road infrastructure ensure Canadians have access to alternative and safe options for commuting,” said Harjit S. Sajjan, federal Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, on behalf of Dominic LeBlanc, federal Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities. “Adding a flyover overpass in Saanich will create jobs, reduce travel time and build stronger communities. Our government is proud to help support a strong regional economy.”
The Province hopes that the project will also improve access for neighbourhoods and businesses in the Keating area, including the Keating Business Park, which supports more than 3,000 jobs.
“This project will help make Highway 17 safer for everyone who uses it and will help decrease congestion and improve connectivity for residents and local businesses,” said Rob Fleming, B.C.’s Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “The Patricia Bay Highway plays a critical role in connecting communities on the South Island to the services and goods they depend on, and I’m excited for work to get underway.”
Features of the project will include:
- 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; and
The final design of the flyover overpass is nearing completion and the project tender is expected to be posted by fall.
Construction on the new overpass is expected to be complete by spring of 2025.
“Council appreciates the recent provincial investments in Central Saanich, and we look forward to celebrating the elimination of the left turn across the highway,” said Ryan Windsor, mayor, Central Saanich. “We are immensely pleased that this safety improvement is around the corner for residents, businesses and peninsula visitors.”
For more information on the flyover project, click here.
Graham Cox
