McIntyre Passing Lanes excellent

Recently the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) completed Highway 97 McIntyre Passing Lanes, which included construction of 1.5 km long passing lanes in both directions.

 The Ministry and contractor worked with Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) for various employment opportunities.  OIB members completed all fencing and brush clearing work, which was done by hand due to sensitivity around Antelope Brush and surrounding eco systems.

For the duration of the project, the contractor hired 5 Band members as labours and OIB equipment was contracted for excavation and hauling.

The principal contractor  (R355 Enterprises Ltd) estimates approx. 2500 man-hours and 280 equipment hours of work supplied by the Osoyoos Indian Band.

Throughout the entirety of the project, the relationship between the Ministry, OIB, and the contractor has been an excellent one. The knowledge and experience gained by Band members over the last 5 months will give future employment opportunities with other contractors.  Band member will have acquired skills and abilities to proceed with a career in Road Construction.

MOTI answer to questions asked