KAMLOOPS, B.C. — Two dangerous stretches of B.C. blacktop are being improved, thanks to a $16.7 million investment under the Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program (SHIP).

A 4.2 kilometre stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway between Broderick Creek and Ford Road is being upgraded to four lanes, which will allow for an increase in the speed limit to 100 km/h. A grade-separated crossing will also be added, and the intersection with White Lake Road will be enhanced, providing for the easier merging of traffic. The province hopes to reduce accidents at this intersection by 65 per cent.

In addition, a 1.6 kilometre stretch of Hwy. 5 at Preacher Hill between Barriere and Little Fort will be flattened and re-aligned. This is aimed at reducing the high number of truck rollovers that occur in the area.

"As part of our Heartlands Economic Strategy, we are launching a comprehensive program of transportation improvements to help open up our province and revitalize the economy," says B.C. Premier, Gordon Campbell. "We are also working with the federal government under the new Canada-B.C. Partnership to further expand our transportation infrastructure and provide critical safety improvements. The added funding provided today brings total investments in the Trans-Canada Highway corridor through B.C. to $219 million in the past year."

Federal Transport Minister, David Collenette, adds "I am pleased that funds from the Government of Canada’s Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program are being used for these highway construction projects. These highway improvements will enhance public safety and benefit visitors and trade. The Government of Canada has committed $228 million to improve B.C. highways through our various federal infrastructure funds."