The governments of Canada and British Columbia (BC) intend to invest approximately C$37.8m ($28.2m) to improve Highway 16.

The investment will be used for the construction of five additional passing lanes along Highway 16, as well as to upgrade the junction of Highway 16 and 37 in Terrace, where there is currently a four-way stop.

Canadian Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Amarjeet Sohi said: “The Government of Canada is working in close partnership with British Columbia to ensure we make smart infrastructure investments that create safer roads for travelers, help grow the middle class, and promote sustainable development.

"Another one of our provincial priorities is to provide better access into communities, and upgrading the junction of Highway 16 and 37 will ease congestion and improve traffic flow through Terrace."

“By supporting improvements to Highway 16, we are helping local businesses move their goods to market and fostering long-term prosperity in the region for years to come.”

Upon completion, the project is expected to improve safety and traffic flow for all highway users, including local residents, tourists and commercial drivers by providing additional opportunities to safely pass slower moving vehicles.

The project will also support the future economic development in the region by contributing to a more efficient transportation network in northern British Columbia.

British Columbia Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone said: “One of the commitments we made in BC on the Move was to increase the number of passing lanes on Highways 16 and 37.

"We’ve already built 3 and this new investment means 5 more safe opportunities to pass slower vehicles.

"Another one of our provincial priorities is to provide better access into communities, and upgrading the junction of Highway 16 and 37 will ease congestion and improve traffic flow through Terrace.”

The Government of Canada will contribute approximately C$16.1m ($12m) to the Highway 16 Expansion Project through the Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component National and Regional Projects and the Government of British Columbia will contribute nearly C$21.6m ($16.1m).