Five structures compromised on Coquihalla, Hwy 3 could reopen first

• One fatality confirmed in Hway 99 landslide
• Hway 3 looks like it'll be first to re-open

British Columbia’s transportation minister says getting damaged roadways back in operation is the province’s number one priority.

Rob Fleming made the comment at an update Tuesday on the weather-related damage to the Coquihalla Highway and other routes that has severed road travel between the Interior and Lower Mainland.

“We will provide whatever resources are necessary to make that happen,” said Fleming.

Fleming said Highway 3 “looks to be quickest route to reopen” with updates and timelines to be announced on that soon.

“We will update people on what this route looks like, and whether it can be reopened by the end of the weekend,” the minister added.

Paula Cousins from the Ministry of Transportation in the Interior said aerial assessments show there are “multiple” wash-out sites on the Coquihalla and at least five structures have been compromised.

“That corridor is going to require significant repairs before traffic will be able to move on it again,” said Cousins.

Public safety minister Mike Farnworth began his update by extending condolences to the family of the woman who died on Highway 99 near Lillooet.

“This has been an extreme weather event,” said Farnworth. “The specialists have noted the impacts have been significantly greater than expected.”

Farnworth said all of the stranded motorists from three landslide events have been rescued and taken to shelter in nearby communities.

He noted the community of Hope is supporting about 1,100 evacuees with meals, and about 900 people have been sleeping at a church and Hope’s high school.

“I want to thank the community for all they’ve been doing.”

Farnworth said an access road is being worked on that will soon reconnect Hope with the rest of the Lower Mainland.

“What were seeing is a natural disaster,” he remarked.

Farnworth said a province-wide state of emergency is “very much on the table,” and will be discussed at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

Pete McIntyre/Vernon Matters