The November 2021 Atmospheric River damaged 24 sites along Highway 8 between Spences Bridge and Merritt. Work continues on permanent repairs to the damaged sites to restore them to full capacity and make them more resilient to extreme weather.
Permanent repairs are complete at 5 sites and are in progress at 19 sites.
Read the community newsletter for detailed updates:
Several sections of Highway 8 still have gravel surfaces with reduced speed zones. At sites 9 and 10 (between 14 to 15.3 km east of Spences Bridge) there are two single lane alternating bridges. Be prepared for potential traffic delays and watch for signs that identify sites under active construction.
Drivers are asked to use caution, obey speed limits and follow directions of traffic-control personnel.
For the latest information on road conditions, visit DriveBC.
Yellowhead Road & Bridge Ltd. regularly monitors the area and applies traction control (salt and sand) on the roads during winter conditions. Cobra Electric Interior Services LP is the electrical maintenance contractor for the region and maintains traffic signals and lights.
If you notice any hazards or issues on Highway 8 (such as potholes and faulty lights), please call: 1-888-899-9854
Should Highway 1 or Highway 5 close in the future, Highway 8 will not be used as a detour as it is an active construction zone. Protocol to redirect traffic away from Highway 8 will prevent secondary closures and impacts on local residents.
Messaging on available detour routes will be made available via message signs, DriveBC.ca and social media.
Check TranBC's Current Road Advisories for detailed information about highway travel disruptions during emergency situations.
Environmental enhancements will improve ecosystems and help support local fisheries, by providing habitat for young fish during periods of low water. Five priority sites have been identified in collaboration with Indigenous leadership and technical staff. The enhancements will be part of the permanent repair work starting fall 2024.
The measures include:
Similar work was done in 2022, during the emergency repairs to Highway 8. Early monitoring has shown that riparian plants have begun to grow and young fish have started populating the side channels along the river.
Sites 1 to 8 are located between 17.3 km west of Mamit Junction and 16 km east of Spences Bridge.
Friendly Url for this Page:
gov.bc.ca/highway8recovery
For more information contact:
General Enquiries
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