There is good news and not so good news for members travelling to the Shuswap from the east or trying to get to Sicamous from the west. The good news is that the construction work on the Kicking Horse Canyon four laning is now complete, resulting in a safer and faster travel time through the area. The not so good news is that delays and detours will now be encountered at Sicamous, as the old bridge there is replaced by a modern safer four lane one.
Starting in September 2024 construction will start on the replacement for the 65 year old Bruhn Bridge on the TransCanada Highway (HWY#1) at Sicamous. Construction will require numerous detours before the project is completed in 2027. There is no detailed detour schedule yet available, but the Province says no daytime detours will come into effect before October 31st. Upgrading /replacement of this bridge is long over due as the recent tragic death of a young truck driver showcases.
When construction and blasting require detours, the rerouting will be from Sicamous south via Highway 97A, and then north from the 97B junction south of Grinrod back to the TCH at Salmon Arm. It is anticipated that this rerouting will add 35 to 45 minutes to normal timing. Because of the heavy loads expected on HWY 97A near Mara Lake, speeds will be reduced for extended distances.
The intersection of HYW 97A and 97B is a location of particular concern. Temporary traffic lights will be installed to allow eastbound traffic to safely join northbound HWY 97A. Long tailbacks could result at busy times of the year.
Congestion could also develop in Salmon Arm as westbound traffic turns back onto Hwy 1. Westbound traffic in Sicamous could back up from the light at HWY 97A and the TCH.
Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available. Drive BC will have up to date reporting of detours and congestion as will the construction website (click here).