$6.3-million South Slocan Overhead project wraps up

SLOCAN, B.C. — Construction is now complete on the $6.3-million South Slocan Overhead project.

Construction started in the spring on dismantling the original two-lane South Slocan Bridge, which was built in 1962, with a new two-lane rock fill on Highway 3A and a pedestrian and cycling tunnel, for improved safety, explains a release.

“We are happy to see this new tunnel open up underneath the highway, which will now ensure the safety of cyclists and pedestrians, who won’t have to cross the busy highway to use the amazing trail system in the area,” said Claire Trevena, minister of transportation and infrastructure, in a statement.

Copcan Civil Ltd. from Nanaimo was awarded the contract for this project, which also included rock blasting at Beasley Bluffs to straighten out the approaches and improve sight lines, and construction of wider shoulders and improved intersection designs on adjacent roads.

Also included was additional improvements to the existing trail network, including new signs, adding a new trail head at the end of South Slocan Station Road and four kilometres of asphalt-paved rail trail from South Slocan to Pass Creek Road/Highway 6 intersection.

The project was cost-shared between the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resources and Rural Development, the Regional District of Central Kootenay and the Slocan Valley Heritage Trail Society.

“This project has not only enhanced safety for trails users, but also increased access to recreational opportunities for visitors and B.C. residents,” said Doug Donaldson, minister of forests, lands, natural resource operations and rural development.