Dear Supporters,

Safety improvements are being made on Highway 16 East, specifically along the “Jail Hill” section, (between Guay Road and the Old Cariboo Highway).

The BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) has commenced the installation of median concrete barriers - a project that has been in planning for several years and is now actively underway.

While this initiative was planned independently of our petition, it aligns closely with the safety enhancements we have been advocating for:

• Reduction of Headlight Glare: The barriers may help minimize the blinding effect of oncoming headlights, improving nighttime driving conditions.

• Wildlife Deterrence: Although not primarily designed for this purpose, the barriers may serve as an additional obstacle for deer and other wildlife, potentially reducing the frequency of animals attempting to cross the highway at unsafe locations.

Construction Schedule:

• Lane Closures: Daily lane closures in each direction from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, continuing through Friday.

• Traffic Advisory: Motorists are advised to adhere to all traffic control measures and maintain reduced speeds when traveling through the construction zone.

Purpose of Concrete Barriers:

Concrete barriers serve several critical safety functions:

• Preventing Cross-Median Collisions: They effectively reduce the number of vehicles crossing into oncoming traffic lanes, thereby decreasing the likelihood of head-on collisions.

• Containing Vehicles: They help keep vehicles within their designated lanes, minimizing the risk of accidents caused by vehicles drifting out of control.

Opportunity for Additional Lighting:

As part of the median barrier installation, electrical work will be conducted to install a flashing light on the median. This presents an opportune moment to re-consider the installation of additional roadway lighting - a measure that has been a focal point of our safety advocacy. Previously, MOTI has indicated that additional lighting was not planned due to specific engineering standards and collision rate assessments.

However, with the ongoing electrical work, it seems practical to revisit the possibility of enhancing roadway illumination. I encourage all supporters to reach out to MOTI and express support for the installation of additional lighting during this phase of construction. Collective community input can significantly influence decision-making processes.

Click (HERE) to contact MOTI Fort George District

(Click on Manager’s names to obtain their direct email address.)

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to improving the safety of “Jail Hill” to protect drivers and wildlife!