Tire-damaging potholes are popping up on Highway 1, according to reports from motorists travelling between Chilliwack and Hope.
Motorists reported damage from deep potholes particularly in the eastbound lanes just past the weigh scale in Hope, and the variable speed limit was reduced.
More than 15 vehicles parked on the shoulder of the highway early on Tuesday (Jan. 13) after sustaining tire damage, but by 9 a.m. they had all been cleared.
Pothole repair has been the focus of Emil Anderson Maintenance crews through the recent heavy rain, according to an EAM post, and Tuesday they reduced the speed limit.
”We’re reducing the variable corridor speed limit to 60 km/h (3/5 split) heading toward Chilliwack,” EAM officials said.
“This step is part of our joint effort with the Ministry of Transportation to ensure the safety of both motorists and work crews, while repair work is underway.”
The repeated freeze and thaw cycles have “severely degraded” some of the road surfaces on the TCH.
“That said, our crews are out every single day—regardless of the weather—working tirelessly to patch potholes, repair fractured pavement, and keep roads as safe as possible while we plan more permanent fixes.”
But some of the weather-related damage is getting ahead of their capacity.
“In many areas, the damage has now exceeded what routine patching and maintenance can safely and effectively address,” EAM officials said in a post Jan. 12.
“Over the past Friday and Saturday, EAM milled out 24 tonnes of asphalt to tackle the most affected sections first. Our crew will continue focusing on the most damaged areas before circling back to address the remaining spots.”
Most of the asphalt damage is located in the slow lanes.
“Please reduce speed, stay alert, and watch for our crews—they’ll be out filling these holes.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.”
To report any road hazards in your area—including potholes—call EAM at 1-800-667-5122 (available 24/7), or fill out the online form. Attach photos if possible at emilanderson.ca