Four-lane section of Trans-Canada Highway opens near Golden, BC

A four-lane road along the Trans-Canada Highway east of Golden, British Columbia, is now open to motorists after three years of construction.

The fourth and final phase of the Kicking Horse Canyon Freeway opened to travelers Wednesday evening, according to a project update.

“People driving the Trans-Canada Highway through the canyon will now travel on a wider, safer and more efficient highway,” the project said in a social media post.

“While the speed limit is set at 100 km/h, motorists are reminded to respect the road and other road users, adhere to conditions and be alert for the presence of wildlife.”

The final part of the project focused on upgrading 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) of highway to improve safety. The project resulted in highway closures as crews worked through the “most challenging” section of the canyon.

The cost of phase four was estimated at $601 million.

Since 2003, three other phases of the Kicking Horse Canyon project have been completed, including phase one, the Yoho Bridge, in 2006; phase two, the Park Bridge, in the summer of 2007; phase three east, the brake test to Yoho National Park, in 2011; and phase three west, from Golden Hill to West Portal, in 2013.

In late summer or early fall, some work will be carried out in the area, including minor adjustments such as planting trees and shrubs.

Access to Dart Creek Trails will remain closed until late summer or early fall due to ongoing construction on the Dart Creek Service Road.