Brief: BC Hydro begins work on slope stabilization project near Revelstoke Dam

BC Hydro has begun work on a slope stabilization project across from Revelstoke Dam. In early April, the project was postponed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and BC Hydro only went ahead with some preliminary work in May. In a statement, spokesperson Jen Walker-Larsen said BC Hydro has made the decision to resume and start the major slope stabilization and protection work.

Project work will include installation of additional protection to prevent rocks striking the high capacity anchors that pin together the major rock layers, rock scaling, and then installation of wire mesh and shotcrete coating. Walker-Larsen said while BC Hydro hopes to complete the work this year, there is a chance some work may need to be finished next season due to the delayed start.

The work will cause some traffic disruptions along Highway 23 North. Single lane alternating traffic is expected to be in place through the work site during most of the project. BC Hydro says periodic road closures could result in delays of up to 30 minutes.

“Safety is BC Hydro’s top priority and we are working with our contractors to continually plan work in ways that will protect the health and safety of both our workers and the public. We are committed to continue to meet and exceed all BC public health and occupational health and safety requirements and recommendations for employers and workplaces to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus,” said Walker-Larsen.