GOLD RIVER – New Democrat MLA Michele Babchuk says new bridges along Highway 18 near the Village of Gold River and improved roadways and shoulders will make travelling to the West Coast from Campbell River easier and safer.

“Gold River, Tahsis, and the entire Nootka Sound are incredible places for people to live and visit,” said MLA Babchuk. “We’re investing in infrastructure that makes the trip safer and easier for locals and tourists alike, giving people peace of mind and a nicer ride to our beautiful coast.”

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has already begun work on repairs to Gold River Road, including stabilizing loose terrain, culvert replacements, repaving, and the addition of a 1-1.5 metre shoulder along 2.2 km of road for pedestrians and cyclists’ safety. Work is scheduled to be complete in late August.

The Heber River bridge, built in 1966, has reached the end of its serviceable lifespan. Work on a replacement bridge will begin shortly and continue to Spring 2022. In the future, the Elk River and Cervus Creek bridges are slated to be replaced as well.

The New Democrat government is investing in infrastructure across the province, from major projects to maintenance and replacements on all of B.C.’s roadways, making sure travel is safe and infrastructure is built to last for generations to come.