Trans-Canada Highway will reopen tonight in the mountains but expect further delays

Oct 28 2016, 4:00 am

The Trans-Canada Highway will reopen tonight at 8 pm MDT after a rockslide that took place on Monday west of Lake Louise in Yoho National Park.

At the time of Monday’s incident, work was underway to clear rock and debris from rock blasts from a construction slope construction project.

Two contractors working  on site were injured and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Work will be continuing on the highway, and Parks Canada wants drivers to be aware of upcoming delays and closures.

Image: Parks Canada

Image: Parks Canada

“Work continues to stabilize the rock face, and geotechnical assessments are ongoing to ensure the safety of personnel as they work to clear and re-open the highway. The existing outside gravel shoulder has been graded, however, current poor weather is delaying the paving operation,” said Parks Canada in a statement.

Motorists should expect heavy traffic congestion, a reduced speed zone of 30 km/h and travel on a 200 metre stretch of gravel surface through the rock slide site. Winter driving conditions are in effect for parts of Banff, Yoho and Kootenay national parks and motorists are urged to drive with caution.

The road will be closed for up to two hours on Friday, October 28, in order to blast and clear rock. Updates will be posted online.

Motorists wishing to avoid congestion can take an alternate route via Highway 95 between Gloden and Radium Hot Springs and Highway 93S through Kootenay National Park.

DH Calgary StaffDH Calgary Staff

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