Publisher’s Note: To bring regular Kicking Horse Bridges construction updates to the public, we’ve teamed up with Copcan, the major contractor for this project, to streamline the process for information. We hope to provide an update every 2 – 3 weeks. Please remember that the timeline is approximate and that there are often delays and unexpected challenges.
Following is a letter regarding the project, as well as an update with specific points to help folks understand
The main contractor: Introducing Copcan Civil LP
Copcan Civil LP has been contracted to construct Project No. 26379-0000 Highway 95 – Kicking Horse River Bridge 1 and 2 Replacement and Approaches for the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI).
Construction activities include but are not necessarily limited to: supply and install new bridges and foundation components, removal and disposal of existing structures, approach roads & underground utility improvements, construction of a pedestrian underpass to maintain West to East connectivity along the existing south dike trail, extension of the river walk dike wall on the north side of the Kicking Horse River just west of realigned highway, riprap armouring of the Kicking Horse River to 1:200 year flood protection, and, park and irrigation system improvements in Kumsheen Park.
• Schedule: Works will typically occur from Monday to Saturday between 7:00AM and 7:00PM except for work impeding Highway 95 traffic that must be completed between 9:00PM and 6:00AM. The project is expected to be completed in October 2026.
Public and Worker Safety is Copcan’s highest priority on all projects. Please respect the restricted construction access zones and signage.
• Vehicle Traffic: Traffic pattern changes will be phased throughout construction to facilitate the typical Highway 95 users while minimizing adverse impacts on residents and businesses.
• Pedestrian Traffic: pedestrians will be directed to around and passed the work zone on walkways opposite to where the works are taking place or signed detours.
• Construction Impacts: residents and businesses may experience increased noise, dust, vibration, and traffic. Our team has developed project-specific processes to mitigate these impacts.”
Update for mid-May:
We are realigning the water main that currently crosses under the Kicking Horse River, which conflicts with the new bridge foundation. The work taking place near the 7-Eleven is related to installing new watermain required for the realignment.
This work will have two stages. First, we must construct a temporary water main over the existing bridge along the east sidewalk to facilitate the construction of the new bridge. Once the new bridge is near completion, the permanent water main will be installed under the structure so the existing bridges can be decommissioned and removed.
Below is a summary of works complete, ongoing and upcoming.
Works completed:
• Temporary overhead power relocation.
• Removal of vegetation and organic surface materials on the north and south side.
• River bank protection with riprap and cobble rock on the south bank and Goulds Island under new bridge alignment.
• Decommission old well in Kumsheen Park
Works ongoing (next 2 weeks):
• Temporary overhead midcommunication relocation.
• Underground watermain relocation on north and south side.
• Underground storm utility works on the north side.
• Underground streetlight conduit and light bases on the north approach.
• Prepare for concrete curbs on north side.
Works upcoming (next 4 weeks):
• Concrete curbs on north side.
• Asphalt patching on north side.
• Underground watermain system commissioning and tie-ins on north and south side.
• Underground storm utility works on the south side
Look for another update in a few weeks.
ABOUT COPCAN CIVIL
The Gregson family has been road building and land clearing in British Columbia for more than 30 years. Formed in 1985, the name “COPCAN” was derived from “Copper Canyon”, the location of the first project undertaken by the new company. Copcan is based in Nanaimo, BC with locations in Kelowna and Rossland.
