B.C. Government Declines Twinning Highways 97 and 49 Between Fort St. John and Grande Prairie

The Peace River Regional District recently received confirmation from the British Columbia government that twinning the highways connecting Fort St. John and Grande Prairie is not under consideration at this time. Twinning involves widening the two-lane sections of Highways 97 and 49 to four lanes to enhance safety and traffic flow. The PRRD had pursued the issue following interest from an interprovincial meeting with the County of Grande Prairie. However, in a letter from the Ministry of Transportation and Transit, the province indicated it is not planning to twin the route. The ministry monitors traffic data and corridor performance and currently finds the transportation corridor to be functioning effectively. Approximately half of the route already features four lanes or passing lanes. While the government acknowledged the corridor’s importance, it stated its focus remains on maintaining safety and mobility rather than expanding the road. No timeline or plans for twinning were provided.