BC Expands Highway 5 Safety Measures Near Merritt

The BC Ministry of Transportation is rolling out new safety upgrades along a high-traffic stretch of Highway 5 near Merritt. The improvements include new median barriers, rumble strips, and upgraded signage to reduce collisions and improve winter driving conditions. Crews began preliminary work this week, with the project slated for completion by late November, ahead of the busy holiday travel season.

Highway 5, also known as the Coquihalla, is a key corridor connecting the Lower Mainland to the BC Interior and is notorious for challenging winter driving conditions. Transportation Minister Rob Fleming says the upgrades are part of a multi-year strategy to improve safety along the route, which sees heavy commercial truck traffic in addition to passenger vehicles. The plan also includes increased roadside maintenance and faster snow removal response times.

Local officials in Merritt have welcomed the changes, noting the improvements could help reduce the number of serious accidents in the area. “These are practical, proven measures that will save lives,” said TNRD Area M Director Herb Graham. The Ministry is advising drivers to watch for reduced speed zones and lane closures while crews work on the upgrades.