BC Hydro is beginning site preparation work this week for the John Hart Dam seismic upgrade project.
The work includes moving power lines and a boat ramp, preparation of construction laydown areas and tree removals.
“These early works will prepare the site, so once we have all the project approvals in place, the contractor can hit the ground running in summer 2023,” said BC Hydro spokesperson Stephen Watson.
“As an example, the tree removals are planned to take place outside of the bird nesting season so there’s no delays in starting the upgrade work at the dam.”
BC Hydro’s current boat launch by the John Hart Dam will be moved closer to the City of Campbell River’s water treatment building.
The new boat ramp will be located outside of the work zone for the new upstream earthfill berms and the water turbidity containment works.
The boat ramp isn’t open to the public.
“Given the public traffic across the dam and recreational activities just to the north of the dam, it’s important that people be aware in advance of these early works and understand why we’re doing them,” said Watson.
The upgrade project is expected to be finished in 2029.
