Work to reopen Telegraph Creek Road continues

Press Release

June 11, 2021

TELEGRAPH CREEK – Drivers are advised that Telegraph Creek Road (Highway 51) remains open to light-duty passenger vehicles in both directions at timed intervals.

Following the initial washout on April 14, the ministry and the Tahltan Band Council have been working to reopen the road. They are collaborating on short-, medium- and long-term plans for the road. The road is expected to be fully open again in early July, with construction work continuing.

Currently, there are three piloted openings per day to allow local, 4×4, high-clearance, un-trailered traffic to travel on the road.

The road is currently load restricted to 70% legal axle weight, as frost thawing from the road base makes it prone to damage from heavy vehicles. This is consistent with many northern B.C. roads throughout spring.

Rig mats that were placed on soft sections of road will be in place for at least three more weeks while the road dries out. The rig mats will then be removed and repair of these road sections will begin. All efforts will be made to ensure the road is suitable for the safe passage of passenger vehicles, recreational vehicles, travel trailers and commercial vehicles. DriveBC will be updated to reflect these changes as they occur.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and the Tahltan Band Council thanks the community of Dease Lake, the Regional District of Kitimat Stikine, Emergency Management BC (EMBC) and first responders for their work and co-operation.

Teams continue to work with EMBC to provide support to the community of Telegraph Creek.

Drivers are reminded to follow posted speed limits, traffic-control devices and flag persons. For the most up-to-date information before travel, visit: www.DriveBC.ca

Contacts:

Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Media Relations
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 356-8241

Tahltan Band Council
250 235-3151

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