The BC Highway Reinstatement Program – Highway 1 Nicomen River Bridge Replacement project restored critical infrastructure after the devastating November 2021 floods in Southern BC. The BC Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MoTT) partnered with Kiewit under an Alliance delivery model to replace the damaged bridge with a resilient, low-maintenance, and seismically robust two-span curved steel plate girder structure.

As an originally unplanned outcome, the project enhanced freight mobility by resolving longstanding clearance issues at the nearby CPKC Railway underpass, reducing regional transportation bottlenecks. Environmental sustainability was prioritized by incorporating riprap redesigns to protect fish habitat, implementing water quality monitoring, and collaborating with Indigenous communities to plant willow trees along the riverbanks.

Indigenous engagement was a key project focus, exceeding employment inclusion targets with 44% of the workforce from Direct Equity Groups. The project also fostered cultural respect through Indigenous monitoring, employment programs, and a bridge-opening ceremony led by the local Nicomen Band Chief Arlene.

Completed ahead of schedule and under budget, the project showcases innovation, sustainability, and collaboration in infrastructure recovery and resilience.

The project used an Alliance delivery model, fostering collaboration between MoTT, Kiewit, and stakeholders. This approach enabled early risk identification, proactive problem-solving, and design refinements for greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

A key focus was resilience, achieved through a two-span, curved steel plate girder bridge designed to withstand seismic activity, flood debris, and extreme scour. The team also resolved a critical freight bottleneck by lowering the roadway under the adjacent CPKC Railway, eliminating clearance issues without costly rail modifications. Although not originally in scope, this was identified through Alliance-driven collaboration, delivering added benefits to BC’s transportation network.

Environmental stewardship was integral. When pink salmon were unexpectedly found, the riprap design was re-engineered to limit in-water work and minimize habitat disruption. Additional measures included water quality monitoring, spawning gravel placement, and willow planting with Indigenous collaboration.

The project exceeded diversity targets, with 44% workforce participation from Direct Equity Groups. Indigenous Monitors and liaisons ensured cultural heritage preservation, while employment initiatives expanded opportunities beyond traditional construction roles.
Through innovation and teamwork, the project was delivered safely, ahead of schedule, and under budget.

The project restored critical infrastructure early and under budget, boosting connectivity and freight mobility. The new bridge improves resilience to seismic events and extreme weather while reducing maintenance. Environmental measures safeguarded fish habitats, and direct equity group engagement exceeded targets with 44% workforce participation. This project sets a benchmark for innovation and collaboration, advancing outcomes through the Alliance Delivery Model.