Popular Othello Tunnels not expected to reopen this year

A major tourist attraction and historical landmark near Hope, B.C., remains closed more than 16 months after being damaged by floods.

A major tourist attraction and historical landmark near Hope, B.C., remains closed more than 16 months after being damaged by floods.

Othello Tunnels, located in Coquihalla Canyon Park, would usually reopen for the season in May.

But according to a statement from the Ministry of Environment, it is “not anticipated that it will be opened in 2023.”

“It’s the number one thing, number one question asked in Hope, ‘When are the tunnels going to open?’” said Hope Mayor Victor Smith.

Before the floods of November 2021, about 50,000 people would visit the park each year between May and November.

“When one of your larger attractions are shut down or closed, it’s a big hit for your community, no question,” said Brian McKinney of the Hope Cascades and Canyons Visitor Centre.

“A lot of movie business relies on the park being open, so that loss to our community has been immeasurable,” he said. “It’s been a big loss overall.”