Water pooling in the McKenzie Interchange underpass Tuesday was due to incomplete drainage work and temporary measures being overwhelmed, according to the Ministry of Transportation.
Water that accumulated on the road after heavy rainfall and caused delays for drivers around 5:30 a.m. , at points traffic was down to one lane in both directions.
“Temporary drainage measures were put in place, including pumps and ditches… heavy rains over the last 48 hours overwhelmed the temporary drainage measures the contractor had in place,” said Danielle Pope, spokesperson from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
“Due to the staged nature of the project, it was necessary to move traffic to the new alignment prior to finalizing drainage work.”
They say pump trucks were brought in to remove the water, and Highway 1 southbound was opened to two lanes of traffic by 7:45 a.m.
The ministry added that until permanent drainage is constructed they have directed the contractor to ensure proper measures are in place to ensure rainwater is draining effectively. According to the ministry, permanent drainage will be in place nearer to the completion of the project, as the loop exit to the McKenzie Avenue still has to be constructed. The proect is expected to be completed by summer 2020.
“The ministry thanks drivers for their patience this morning,” Pope added.
If anyone was stuck in this today and is willing to an interview in Victoria before 2 pm today please call the @CHEK_News 250-480-3700 and ask for Mary. Thanks!
— Tess van Straaten (@tessvanstraaten) January 7, 2020
CHEK News
