The Coquihalla Canyon Park is set to reopen this summer after being significantly damaged in a storm and flood in November 2021. The flood caused damage to more than 30 sites in the park, including the historic Othello Tunnels and bridge foundations. The stability above the tunnels was also affected, along with erosion of access roads and trails. The Ministry of Environment announced that restoration work has been completed and part of the park will reopen in mid-July. Crews have removed unstable soil, rocks, and vegetation, and installed steel bars to stabilize rocks. Additional measures such as sprayed concrete and pinned mesh will be used to address deterioration in the tunnels.
Visitors will be allowed to access the park from the parking lot to the end of the second tunnel, with added safety measures such as installed mesh to reduce the risk of falling debris. The exact reopening date has not yet been announced, but BC Parks will provide updates on social media in the coming weeks. The total cost of the restoration project is approximately $4.5 million, with support from Canada’s Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements. Additionally, BC Parks collaborated with local First Nations and specialists in archaeology and cultural heritage to ensure that construction activities did not impact archaeological or heritage values in the park.
The damage caused by the 2021 flood at Coquihalla Canyon Park was extensive, affecting various parts of the park including the historic Othello Tunnels and bridge foundations. Access roads and trails were eroded, posing safety risks to visitors. The Ministry of Environment and BC Parks have undertaken significant restoration and repair work over the past two-and-a-half years to address the damage and ensure the safety of visitors. By stabilizing rocks, installing safety measures, and working with experts to preserve archaeological and heritage values, the park is on track to reopen in mid-July.
The reopening of Coquihalla Canyon Park will provide visitors with the opportunity to once again explore this scenic and historically significant area. The park attracts a wide range of visitors, from hikers and nature enthusiasts to history buffs interested in the Othello Tunnels. The restoration efforts at the park demonstrate the commitment of the government and park authorities to preserving and maintaining this natural and cultural heritage site. The collaboration with local First Nations and experts in heritage preservation underscores the importance of protecting not only the physical landscape but also the historical and cultural significance of the park.
As the reopening of Coquihalla Canyon Park approaches, visitors can look forward to experiencing the beauty and history of the park in a safe and restored environment. The completion of the restoration project is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the crews and specialists involved in the process. By implementing safety measures and conservation strategies, the park will continue to be a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike. The reopening of the park will mark a significant milestone in the recovery from the 2021 flood and showcase the resilience of the natural and cultural landscapes in the face of adversity.
