A new overheight-detection system (OHDS) in Chilliwack will protect travellers and property by helping prevent overpass collisions.

“Overheight collisions are entirely preventable,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “This new system will help ensure overheight commercial drivers get advanced warning before reaching the overpass. By combining proven detection tools with stronger enforcement methods, we are taking action to reduce the number of strikes and keep people and goods moving safely.”

Construction on the OHDS begins Monday, March 9, 2026, on Highway 1 westbound at No. 3 Road Interchange in Chilliwack. Once installed, the new system will use a combination of beam-break sensors, radar, cameras and flashing beacons to detect vehicles that exceed height limits and alert drivers, allowing them to divert before they reach the overpass.

The No. 3 Road location was chosen as the test site for the multi-technology approach because it has been the site of repeated collisions, which have caused costly repairs and major traffic delays. Since 2021, the overpass has been struck six times, resulting in extended closures.

“Preventing overpass strikes is a shared priority for industry and government,” said Dave Earle, president and CEO, BC Trucking Association. “Commercial carriers move over 90% of the goods that keep British Columbia’s economy running, and when infrastructure is damaged, it creates safety risks and major disruptions for all road users. Combined with proper training and ongoing enforcement, this type of investment supports safer highways and a more reliable transportation network for the movement of goods.”

Strengthening prevention for road safety

The OHDS is part of the Province’s ongoing efforts to improve safety and protect highway travellers and infrastructure. Preventative measures, such as speed-limiter devices for heavy commercial vehicles, as well as in-cab warning devices for dump-style commercial vehicles capable of rising above 4.15 metres, are improving safety.

Since December 2021, as part of enhanced enforcement efforts to reduce infrastructure collisions, the Province has suspended more than 45 carriers under investigation and issued more than $66,000 in violation tickets to involved drivers and carriers.

The project’s $2-million budget is funded through the 2025-26 Intelligent Transportation Systems program, showing how budgeted investments are being used to improve public safety, protect infrastructure and support the movement of goods in the region.