Highway 1 through B.C.’s Fraser Valley set to reopen to traffic on Thursday

There’s some good news for some drivers who use Highway 1 through the Fraser Valley.

Transportation Minister Rob Fleming said Wednesday that crews are hoping to open Highway 1 through the valley on Thursday.

He said critical temporary repairs are now completed on that route and water levels continue to recede.

The opening will be contingent on the weather, he added, as the ground is already saturated.

Officials said an update will be provided to the public on Thursday. DriveBC estimated that the route would be clear by 9 p.m.

1:15 Lending a helping hand with a power boat along Highway 1

Once this stretch of Highway 1 can be opened, it will connect the Fraser Valley to the rest of Highway 1, which is still for essential travel only.

Highway 1 between Popkum and Hope was opened in both directions to essential traffic on Saturday evening.

0:40 From the air: A closer look at the landslide on Highway 1 near Popkum

On Highway 1 through the Fraser Canyon, from Hope to Boston Bar, crews have been able to clear a path for emergency travel only.

Highway 1 through the canyon is now open between the Boothroyd First Nation and Hope, providing the communities of Yale, Spuzzum and Boston Bar with a direct link to the Lower Mainland.

It is for essential travel only.

Editor’s Note: While Rob Fleming said Highway 7 remains for essential travel only, Highway 1 in the Fraser Valley would be open for all traffic.