The two bridges crossing Kicking Horse River will receive upgrades that make them more resilient to the impacts of climate change, thanks to a combined investment of more than $89.6 million from the governments of Canada and British Columbia. Announced by Member of Parliament John Aldag and Minister Rob Fleming, this project will reduce the risk of damage to essential infrastructure in Golden caused by climate-related events.
Kicking Horse Bridges 1 & 2 cross the river on Highway 95 and act as the sole link for vehicles between the north and south sides of Golden. They also provide a key link between Highways 1 and 3 and several communities along Highway 95 between Golden and Cranbrook. Funding will replace and increase capacity of the Kicking Horse River bridges to withstand the impacts of climate-related events such as ice jams, debris flows, and flooding. The upgrades will prevent the damage and potential loss of important connections that could threaten access to essential goods and services for communities in the area. Project funding will also improve active transportation options on the bridges by constructing multi-use paths that connect to the municipal active transportation network.
Golden’s Mayor Ron Oszust comments on the long awaited announcement. “Exciting for Golden, this project will modernize and make this important connector in our community safer, efficient, and transformative for our downtown. We thank the federal government for its investment in critical public infrastructure and we have built an extraordinary relationship with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure through the project design and engagement process. I can’t wait to continue this partnership and see the new bridge come to fruition.”
Making adaptation investments now will have major economy-wide benefits later. Every dollar that is invested in adapting and preparing for climate-related disasters can return as much as $13 to $15 in benefits.
The federal government will continue investing in infrastructure to continue growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.
The Honourable Rob Fleming, B.C. Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure states “Climate-related events are becoming more frequent and more devastating for our infrastructure and the communities that depend on it. From 2021’s extreme flooding to this year’s record-breaking fire season, it’s critical that we continue to work with our partners in all levels of government to invest in projects that keep the people of British Columbia safe and connected.”
The Government of Canada is investing $28,769,154 in this project through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF), while the Government of British Columbia is investing $60,882,000.
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