Fraser Valley – 2PM UPDATE (with files from Global) – Abbotsford Mayor Henry Braun said in his address that as of 2PM December 2, Abbotsford Police started to escort traffic through the Abby Highway 1 corridor as MOTI opens Highway 1 from Popkum to Hope.
60Kmh speed limit and ramps to No 3 Road and Cole Road remain closed due to flooding.
Transportation Minister Rob Fleming said Highway 1 from Abbotsford to Chilliwack reopens Thursday afternoon, allowing traffic to flow from Vancouver to Hope.
Highway 1 between Popkum and Hope has also reopened but there is some restricted flow for about three kilometres near Bridal Falls, Fleming added. Traffic is being diverted to one lane in each direction over to the west side of the highway and the eastbound lanes remain closed.
Highway 3 is still open for the supply chain but it is under an essential travel order and prioritized for truck drivers, Fleming said.
ORIGINAL STORY – Preparations are underway to reopen Highway 1 between Abbotsford and Hope Thursday.
In the Sumas area between Abbotsford to Chilliwack, crews are working to disassemble the tiger dam that was set up to mitigate flood damage. This stretch of highway is expected to open this afternoon. For the most current updates, check: DriveBC.ca
Highway 1, just east of Highway 9 to Hope, is also expected to open this afternoon. Drivers should expect slower speed limits, delays and traffic pattern changes through the Bridal Falls area.
These sections of Highway 1 do not fall under the Province’s travel restrictions order. However, drivers are asked to limit travel to essential purposes only while cleanup and repairs continue.
The highway infrastructure remains vulnerable following recent storms. The ministry continues to monitor the weather and the performance of the highway. People should be aware that highways affected by severe weather could close at any time if conditions change.
Check for updates online: DriveBC.ca
