B.C. government says motorists should expect traffic delays on Coquihalla Highway over long weekend

CHILLIWACK — Before you head to the Interior this weekend, the provincial Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure says motorists should expect traffic delays on the Coquihalla.

According to a statement issued Thursday afternoon (Sept. 1) by the B.C. government, drivers should expect delays on Highway 5 between Hope and Merritt as portions of the highway are still one lane in each direction due to damage from heavy rains in November 2021 and ongoing reconstruction work.

The B.C. government says the heaviest traffic volumes on the Coquihalla are anticipated northbound from noon to 8 p.m. on Friday (Sept. 2) and southbound on Monday (Sept. 5) from noon until 8 p.m.

Drivers are encouraged to adjust travel plans to avoid peak times or consider using Highway 3, the Crowsnest Highway, as an alternate route between the Interior and Lower Mainland. Drivers on other routes throughout the province should also expect above-average traffic volumes and plan accordingly.