Along Highway 1 in Sorrento, BC, the Newsome Creek Infrastructure Improvements Project continues to progress. The project is focused on improving water management, reducing erosion risks, and increasing the long-term resilience of the highway corridor, and crews have been making steady progress getting the site ready for the next major phase of construction.
Creek Diversion and Erosion Control
The primary scope of work includes the trenchless installation of a new 2400 mm diameter steel culvert beneath Highway 1, which will increase water flow capacity at Newsome Creek and help address ongoing drainage challenges. Supporting work includes temporary and permanent site access construction, highway widening, utility relocations, and temporary water diversion to safely complete in-stream work.
The creek has been diverted around the jobsite to keep the water clean and protect it from pollutants and turbidity that construction activities can generate. Surrounding trees have been cleared, and erosion prevention measures are in place along the steep slopes, including straw wattles, sediment fence, and poly covering on exposed slopes to prevent sloughing and protect the banks.
Bank Stabilization and Site Preparation
Crews are currently working on the north side of the creek, placing fill and riprap to reinforce the banks and creek bed at the base of the culvert outlet. This work helps stabilize the surrounding over-steepened areas and prevents further erosion from the stream. Access roads are also being built on both sides of the highway, and a large push pad with a sheet pile reaction wall is being installed to support the upcoming pipe installation.
Channel reconstruction and environmental restoration are also a key component of the project scope, with works including creek channel improvements, slope stabilization, and fish habitat in-stream restoration measures designed to support the long-term health of Newsome Creek and its surrounding ecosystem.
Upcoming Culvert Installation
In the coming months, pending final engineering approval, a crane will be loading a hydraulic ramming machine with large sections of the new 2400 mm diameter steel pipe, which will be installed beneath Highway 1. This installation will significantly increase the creek’s capacity to handle large flows and improve system resilience during high-water events.
As one of British Columbia’s primary transportation corridors, minimizing disruption to Highway 1 users and local residents remains a priority throughout construction. Dawson Civil will continue to provide ongoing updates as work progresses on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.