Stretch of B.C. highway damaged in November storms partially reopening before weekend

Another B.C. highway that was severely damaged in a series of storms last November will partially reopen by Friday.

Another B.C. highway that was severely damaged in a series of storms last November will partially reopen by Friday.

B.C.'s Transportation Ministry said Highway 1 between Lytton and Spences Bridge will reopen to general travel and some commercial vehicles.

The ministry said crews have been working to repair the highway, which was damaged in 15 places between Hope and Spences Bridge in November.

Even so, when the 80-kilometre stretch does open to traffic, drivers are being asked to expect significant delays, travel advisories and reduced speed limits. Those delays could be up to two hours above regular travel times and in some areas, there will be single-lane sections.

"Many sections of the highway are operational with temporary access as we design and plan construction on permanent solutions over the long term," the ministry said.

As well, unpredictable winter weather could cause more interruptions. Travellers are advised to follow DriveBC, a Twitter account and website maintained by the ministry, for updates.

The ministry explained the highway stretch between Lytton and Hope remains closed as work was delayed because of record snowfall and the risk of avalanches. However, permanent repair work to the Highway 1 corridor in the Fraser Canyon is underway.