Cache Creek Crossing Restoration Project
Last updated on September 20, 2024
A four-lane bridge will replace the culvert that crosses under Highway 97 in Cache Creek, approximately 84 kilometres west of Kamloops. Construction started in early 2024.
Notice of work – September 2024
Bridge and road construction is ongoing, with crews currently working on the west side of the bridge. One lane in each direction will be maintained through the project area, though drivers can expect intermittent single-lane alternating traffic with delays of up to 5 minutes until mid-October. A construction speed zone of 30 km/hour is in effect.
The existing culvert under Highway 97 does not have the capacity to handle peak river flows and debris, specifically during spring freshet. It is being replaced with a 13-metre-long, four-lane bridge designed to accommodate increases in water flows due to climate change and built to ensure structure stability against erosion in the future.
Project benefits
Benefits of this project are expected to include:
- Improved safety for road users, adjacent businesses and residents, and service providers
- Access reliability and confidence, supporting the local and regional economy
- A design that allows for fish passage, enhancement of riparian habitat and replanting of trees
Construction approach and status
The project team is planning to use a three-staged approach to construction:
- Utilities relocation
- Construction of two lanes of the new bridge and full channel construction under the bridge
- Construction of the remaining two lanes of the bridge and completion of remaining project scope
Bridge construction will maintain the current elevation and access points to the highway. During construction there may be some temporary access and traffic interruptions.
New sidewalks in each direction will connect to existing sidewalks.
Aerial view of the new four-lane crossing with the creek running underneath. Details are subject to change.
Traffic impacts
Construction of the new bridge will likely require the closure of a single lane of traffic in each direction for the majority of the project. Drivers can expect lane configurations to change as the project progresses. Access for pedestrians, including students, will be maintained. Priority will be maintained for emergency vehicles.
- Traffic control will be provided during construction, to minimize delays through the work zone
- Business access will be maintained
Notification of project-related fieldwork or construction is posted on this page in advance. For the latest information on road conditions, please visit DriveBC.
Public feedback
A public information session was held in Cache Creek on October 4, 2023.
You can share your feedback with the project manager. Use the subscribe feature to be informed of updates to this page.
Archive
Notifications
July 2024
Crews are currently on site working on the east side of the bridge structure. Bridge and road construction is ongoing. Crews are currently working on the east side of the new crossing. One lane in each direction will be maintained through the project area. In July, drivers may experience single-lane alternating traffic with stoppages of up to five minutes. Please watch for construction and traffic personnel while in the area and visit DriveBC for further information.
April 2024
Starting on April 12, crews will be on site working on the northbound lanes. Bridge foundation and channel realignment work continues. Businesses in the project area will remain open during this time. Please watch for construction and traffic personnel while in the area and visit DriveBC for further information.
March 2024
Work to date has included excavation and the installation of a temporary lock block wall. Bridge foundations and channel realignment work continues. Please watch for construction and traffic personnel while in the area and visit DriveBC for further information.
The project is scheduled to be complete later this summer.
February 2024
The construction contract for the Cache Creek Restoration Project was awarded to Acres Enterprises Ltd., who has partnered with Bonaparte First Nation, and construction began in January. Work in the coming weeks includes excavation and the installation of a temporary lock block wall, bridge foundations, and channel realignment work. Please watch for construction and traffic personnel while in the area and visit DriveBC for further information.
The project is scheduled to be complete later this summer.
December 2023
Over the coming months, construction crews are completing preparation work in advance of bridge construction, which includes diverting water in the creek, temporarily removing a portion of culvert and completing a watermain relocation. Please watch for construction and traffic personnel.
October 2023
Starting late October, Ministry contractors will be on-site surveying the project area in advance of watermain work.
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