Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS) – City of Kamloops Transportation Network Improvements Project

On September 19, 2024, a fire destroyed the Red Bridge, causing traffic disruptions with the loss of the direct connection between the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS) and downtown Kamloops.

This project is being led by the Ministry of Transportation and Transit, in partnership with Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and the City of Kamloops. It includes a conceptual design for a modern replacement bridge on the original alignment, and will also assess other transportation solutions, review traffic and site data, and evaluate how potential options could affect adjacent infrastructure.

Background

Built in 1936, the bridge was a load-restricted structure for passenger vehicles and pedestrians, with lane widths measuring only 2.7 meters wide compared to the standard lane width of 3.5 meters. Five rehabilitation projects were completed on the bridge in the past 88 years.

Status

• Geotechnical, environmental, and archaeological site assessments, supported by Knúcwmens le Sxwixwéytemc Archaeology Services Ltd. (KSAS) are planned for spring 2026 along both banks and in the waters of the South Thompson River.
• The ministry’s process includes public and community engagement planned for June in Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and the City of Kamloops to seek input on options, which will be followed by a project update.
• Evaluating multiple options is a requirement of the Province of British Columbia for planning and managing all public infrastructure investments. This requirement is to ensure that projects deliver a greater benefit to the communities.

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