Coquihalla to reopen Wednesday to regular traffic

On Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022, the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) will reopen to regular vehicle traffic between Hope and Merritt.

This will be a much more convenient route for people who need to travel between the Lower Mainland and the Interior, and is another significant milestone in the province’s recovery from the devastating storms.

Temporary repairs to the Coquihalla are in place while the ministry plans permanent repairs to the damaged sections. This means travel-pattern changes and reduced speed limits, with the trip between Hope and Merritt taking about 45 minutes longer than normal. This is a high-mountain route that can experience adverse weather and rapidly changing conditions that could require closure with minimal notice.

Electric-vehicle (EV) charging stations at Britton Creek are still out of operation. The nearest EV charging stations are in Hope and Merritt. There will continue to be increased enforcement on this route to ensure drivers are obeying the traffic laws and driving according to conditions.