Tension crack crosses Highway 97 as high water exacts toll

The speed limit on Highway 97 has been reduced north of Quesnel where a tension crack has extended across three lanes of the highway.

Found just north of the Cottonwood Bridge, it is like the result of elevated seasonal groundwater and the Cottonwood River eroding the toe of an ancient slide zone, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure said.

Earlier in the week, the ministry’s local maintenance contractor, Emcon Services, removed the pavement for about 20 metres on either side of the crack to smooth the ride over the area. Geotechnical engineers have inspected the site and the ministry will continue to monitor the crack for any further movement.

Drivers are advised to watch for the reduced speed signage when travelling through this area, the ministry said.

Also, the Quesnel-Hydraulic Road, southeast of the community has been closed at the 20-kilometre mark due to ongoing slide activity.

"The road will remain closed indefinitely until geotechnical engineers can determine a full-time reopening is safe for travellers," the ministry said.

A detour is available via 2700 Road and 500 Road and is being graded and patrolled but will add about 30 minutes of travel time.

In addition, French Road is being prepared for a second detour route and is scheduled to be ready by Friday.

A high streamflow advisory is in place for the Cariboo east of the Fraser River.