Safety the focus for changes to Lakelse Lake Provincial Park access

Users of Lakelse Lake Provincial Park will soon have a safer access to the popular Northwest recreation facility, with the Provincial Government announcing work ahead for Highway 37 South near Williams Creek.

Once this project is complete, the new turning lanes will enhance safety for people turning into or leaving the Gruchy’s Beach parking lot, one of three access points into Lakelse Lake Provincial Park, and those travelling along this stretch of Highway 37 South, which can see upwards of 5,000 vehicles a day in the summer months. 

The Gruchy’s Beach vehicle entrance is the only access point into the provincial park without turning lanes. The project is scheduled to be complete this fall, depending on weather.

As a result of the work, the Gruchy’s Beach day-use area will be closed to park visitors from Sept. 21 until late November 2020. The closure includes the parking lot and the hiking trail to Gruchy’s Beach.

The work however will not affect the park’s other amenities via the Lakelse Lake Picnic Site and the Furlong Bay Campground. 

The ministry is working closely with Binnie Construction Services Ltd. and WorkSafeBC to ensure health and safety are maintained for all workers on site. 

Drivers along Highway 37 can expect minor delays of up to 20 minutes and single-lane, alternating traffic during working hours. 

Further notes on today's announcement are available here.

More background on Lakelse Lake Provincial Park can be explored here.

A wider overview of infrastructure work on highways of the Northwest can be reviewed here.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review.