With the Trans Mountain Expansion Project moving towards mechanical completion, the warm weather calls for increased activities often hindered by rain and snow. Core routes will see an increase in road users across British Columbia and Alberta where our crews are working, particularly in BC along the Coquihalla Highway and throughout the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley.

Along with large equipment like excavators and side booms, you may notice electrical warning lines, automated flagger assistance devices (AFADs), lane closures or detours and variable speed corridors. These measures ensure the safety and security of the public, the environment and our workforce while minimizing disruptions to those travelling near our pipeline route.

Variable Speed Corridors

While travelling between Coquihalla-Hope and Burnaby this summer, you may encounter variable-speed corridors. It is important to follow all speed signs and if you’re unsure of the speed limit, follow the last visible sign. Failing to adjust your speed within a construction zone can result in a ticket and penalty points to your driver's license.

At Trans Mountain, we have extensive traffic management programs in place to ensure all contractors and employees are maintaining safe work environments as well as minimizing traffic disruption to the public.

For updates on the latest road conditions, please visit drivebc.ca.

Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs)

The AFAD system consists of two gate devices operated using a wireless remote control. Each gate device is set up on either end of the work zone for a safer working environment. When the certified flag person pushes the button on the remote, the AFAD system triggers a solid yellow light followed by a solid red light – a process that takes eight seconds – before the magnetic flag arm begins to lower. The stop line is located well behind where the arm would come down, like a railroad crossing.

Flags

The electrical warning flags monitor the height of electrical lines at all worksite access points. This allows drivers operating large equipment to see their proximity to live wires and safely navigate around them. In the industry, these are called goal posts. The flags also provide information to crews by indicating if the electrical line is getting too hot as the flags will begin to sag.

Wildfire Activity

Trans Mountain works closely with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) and the BC Wildfire Service to ensure highways are kept clear for forest fire emergency activities. Various workers in BC hold their S-100 Basic Fire Suppression training ticket, which permits them to support wildfire situations as directed or needed.

For the most up-to-date information on wildfires near you please use these resources before travelling: Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard and BC Wildfire Map

Travel SMART

Construction activities are among many factors that impact core travel routes in BC and Alberta during the summer months. It’s important to plan ahead, give yourself ample time for travel and ensure you’re equipped for any situation. Make sure your vehicle is ready for summer driving and keep essentials such as a first aid kit, water, snacks and a flashlight on hand. When pulling over during your trip, exercise caution and choose a safe location, especially within construction zones. Keeping a cone or high-vis gear in your car is a useful safety tip if you need to stop in an unconventional place such as a roadway shoulder.

To help plan your route and stay safe while travelling this summer, view a detailed map or sign up for construction updates by visiting transmountain.com/map. For more information or questions about the Trans Mountain Expansion Project contact us at [email protected] or 1.866.514.6700.