Here’s an update on BC Transit bus lane from McKenzie interchange to Colwood

BC’s Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has provided an update on the progress of the BC Transit bus-on-shoulder project. 

The scope of this project will see new bus lanes implemented along the Trans-Canada Highway, stretching from the McKenzie interchange to Colwood, ending at the Island Highway interchange. 

When the new bus lanes are completed, it will finish the Rapid Transit corridor connecting downtown Victoria to the Juan de Fuca bus exchange. 

Around 3.7 kilometres of Highway 1 is being widened to incorporate new bus facilities, a new multi-use bridge is being constructed along the Galloping Goose Trail and new RapidBus stops are being implemented at the Helmcken interchange. 

In the latest update on the endeavour, the Province says that crews will continue to work on drainage installation is underway along Highway 1, grading work will continue along the highway, preliminary work continues on the Galloping Goose bridge and electrical work is underway along the corridor. 

Looking ahead, for the remainder of May, the Province says crews are focussing on building sound walls and retaining walls along Portage Road, rock removal along Highway 1, building a new concrete island at Helmcken exchange as well as the concrete island at the Island Highway on-ramp to Highway 1. 

Those who travel along this stretch of highway or the Galloping Goose can expect delays, lane closures. 

The project is estimated to cost a total of $95 million, with the Province contributing $67 million and the Canadian government contributing $28 million. 

Construction began in March 2025 and will continue until late fall 2027.