July 19, 2022 Update
Babine Lake Road is open again! Delays of up to 20 minutes are still expected as construction continues. For the latest updates, drivers are advised to check DriveBC.
July 13, 2022 Update
Babine Lake Road remains temporarily closed at the 30km washout, crews are working hard and making good progress to get the road open as soon as possible.
There are 2 opportunities daily to cross the washout using the construction access as noted below. Crews are working toward a 3rd, noon opening for the weekend, to be confirmed in the next update on Friday or sooner.
Openings: Daily at 6:00AM and 6:30PM:
- Traffic is limited to light-duty, high clearance, 4×4 vehicles only
- No trailers or recreational vehicles
- Traffic will be held at traffic controlled checkpoints, located at 19km for northbound traffic, and 34km for southbound traffic
- Pilot cars will leave checkpoints at 6:00AM and 6:30PM to lead vehicles over the construction access
Scheduled daily openings ensure a safe work site for crews, the public, and expediate the repair. The alternate route is still signed as noted below.
Drivers are advised that Babine Lake Road is temporarily closed due to a washout at the 30-kilometre mark (3 kilometres east of Smithers).
It is estimated that Babine Lake Road will be closed until Saturday, July 16.
Geotechnical assessments are underway, and crews and equipment are on site installing a temporary bridge.
Signs indicate an alternative route is available at 45 kilometres on Babine Lake Road. Drivers can travel for 26 kilometres on the Granisle Connector to Highway 118 in Granisle, then south on Highway 118 for 49 kilometres to Highway 16 in Topley.
For the latest updates, drivers are advised to check DriveBC.
Contact:
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure Media Relations
250 356-8241