Just east of Terrace along Highway 16, in northwestern British Columbia, a new commercial vehicle inspection station opened ahead of schedule.
The facility uses advanced transportation technology to speed up the inspection process of commercial vehicles. According to a Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure press release, it also provides a resting area for drivers, particularly those operating longhaul truck.
“This new inspection facility means that commercial transport operators have a clean, safe place to rest and the people of the northern region can now get the goods and services they need,” said Rob Fleming. Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure “It means safer road for everyone.”
Commercial drivers will find the new station equipped with advanced technology such as overheight detectors and automatic vehicle identification (AVI). It also includes weigh-in motion (WIM), which allows them to check the height, weight, and safety credentials of registered cars at highway speeds, without having to stop. The new tire classification and anomaly system also improves safety, by detecting underinflated or missing tires.
The opening of this facility will enhance mobility for local and long-haul drivers,” said Pablo Rodriguez. It will improve supply chain efficiency and reduce traffic disruptions, as well as improve driver safety on the important Highway. 16 trade corridor in British Columbia.”
Parking spaces
Rest areas will be available for long-haul drivers. During office hours, washrooms will be available. Rest-area toilets are also always accessible. The new station will reduce traffic disruptions and delays for local and commercial drivers because it is located further from the highway. The release stated that 16/37 intersections would be affected.
The new inspection station will enhance safety for all road users in the northern region. The B.C. The BCTA President and CEO, Dave Earle said that the Trucking Association was delighted to see this development become a reality. This will allow drivers and carriers to have access to advanced technology that will ensure their loads are safe. It also serves as a rest area.
Reefer plugs and Wi-Fi
The facility will also include parking for public vehicles and oversize vehicles. It will support short-term (five stalls) and overnight truck parking (10-stalls), refrigeration unit connectors, Wi-Fi, and oversize vehicle staging for interregional transport trips.
The $34.3 million project was funded jointly by Transport Canada and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. Transport Canada contributed $15.1 million and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure provided $19.2 millions. Construction was completed six months earlier than expected.