Wednesday, August 12, 2026
The Government of British Columbia announced the completion of the new Keating Cross Road Overpass on Highway 17, which removes the need for drivers to turn left across busy highway traffic, reducing the risk of collisions and improving travel times along a key route linking several communities.
While not a direct connection, this new flyover improves traffic flow on Highway 17 which directly links to ferries and Victoria International Airport.
“The completion of the Keating Cross Road Overpass is making travel safer and more reliable for people who live, work and travel on the Saanich Peninsula,” said Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South. “This investment improves connections across Highway 17, supports local businesses and communities, and helps people get where they need to go more efficiently.”
Highway 17 is one of southern Vancouver Island’s busiest transportation corridors, supporting the movement of people and goods throughout the region. Approximately 52,000 vehicles use this section each day, with traffic volumes reaching more than 4,000 vehicles per hour during peak periods.
The new overpass improves traffic flow through the corridor, reducing delays and supporting more reliable travel during peak periods.
The Highway 17 Keating Cross Road Overpass was a priority identified in the South Island Transportation Strategy, which is expanding and accelerating transit and transportation infrastructure needed to improve safety, strengthen communities and provide sustainable travel solutions.
Project highlights:
- improves safety by providing a new flyover crossing over Highway 17, including dedicated on-ramp and off-ramp to the highway
- supports future bus rapid transit on Highway 17 through new bus-on-shoulder lanes
- makes it safer for drivers entering Highway 17 by realigning the southbound on-ramp toward Victoria
- supports walking and cycling by widening Keating Cross Road and adding a new sidewalk, excluding the flyover structure
- improves safety for all travellers by closing direct highway access at East Saanich Road, Martindale Road and Danica Place
“The completion of the Keating Cross Road Overpass is a major milestone for Central Saanich. The new connection improves access to the Keating business district, supports more efficient travel through the community and enhances safety for all road users. This is an important investment that will benefit residents, businesses and visitors for years to come.” said Ryan Windsor, Mayor of Central Saanich.
The project was built by Flatiron Contractors Canada Limited.
The total project investment was approximately $76.8 million, with the Province providing $57.6 million in funding, and the federal government $16.7 million. The District of Central Saanich also contributed $2.5 million toward the project.
Featured image: (BC Ministry of Transportation and Transit)
