The B.C. government is warning drivers to be prepared this B.C. Day long weekend, with peak travel times expected on the Malahat highway.
“Significant traffic congestion is expected along the corridor starting on Thursday evening, Aug. 3, 2023, due to the long weekend, local events and a busy summer travel season,” said the province in a release Wednesday.
Drivers can prepare for busy traffic congestion by bringing water, food and other supplies for passengers and any pets.
Travellers should also consider leaving early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak travel times, and plan for their trips to take extra time.
“Although no traffic disruptions are planned at the Malahat Tunnel Hill project site during the long weekend, construction speed limits will remain in effect,” said the province.
The B.C. government says it will be pausing construction work in the project site from Friday, Aug. 4, starting at noon, until Tuesday, Aug. 8 at 7 a.m.
Highway 4
The province will also be opening Highway 4 in the Cameron Lake Bluffs area for the B.C. Day long weekend.
While the corridor has been closed twice daily due to rock scaling and other safety work following wildfires on the bluffs, the province says the highway will be open starting at 5 p.m. on Aug 3 until 9 a.m. on Aug. 8 for long weekend travel.
During this time, the highway will be open to single-lane alternating traffic each day.
RELATED: Highway 4 reopens after strong winds, crane malfunction: ministry
BC Ferries
After a tumultuous summer season for BC Ferries, the ferry operator says it expects smoother service to occur during the August long weekend.
BC Ferries CEO Nicolas Jimenez says all ships are expected to sail during the long weekend, and that contingencies are in place in case anything goes wrong.
“We plan for every vessel to be in service running at capacity,” he said Wednesday.
“Each day this B.C. Day long weekend, almost 1,800 team members are going to be on board our ships and in our terminals, helping our customers get to their destinations.”
Adam Chan
