Preliminary work is slated to begin on the Pat Bay Highway “flyover” overpass project at Keating Cross Road in July.
Initial engineering work will be getting underway for the Highway 17 project, starting next week and lasting into August.
In a press release from the BC Government, a statement reads that field crews will be on-site doing “geotechnical investigations.” This will include drilling holes and analyzing soil samples to increase the understanding of ground conditions under the surface. Environmental management as well as archeological teams will be also carrying out assessments.
The government is advising that the geotechnical work may result in lane closures and traffic delays in the area of Keating Cross Road.
“Drivers are asked to use caution and obey the instruction of traffic control personnel,” reminds the Ministry of Transportation.
The upcoming preliminary geotechnical work will assist in the preparations and design of the flyover project, with the government suggesting public consultation on the project will occur this fall.
The announcement of the flyover overpass came last year after the province felt the left hand turn off of Pat Bay Highway was resulting in too many collisions.
The proposed overpass will eliminate the need for exiting traffic to turn across the highway. The plans also highlight a realigned southbound on-ramp to the Pat Bay Highway southbound.
“These upgrades will allow vehicles to travel this busy corridor more safely and efficiently, helping keep local businesses competitive and promote regional economic growth,” said the Ministry of Transportation.
According to the press release, the Government of Canada has committed more than $16.7 million to this project through the New Building Canada Fund, Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component-National and Regional Projects.
In addition, the District of Central Saanich is contributing $2.5 million.
A finalized investment decision from the provincial government will be made further along in the process.
Graham Cox
