Abstract Manager

The Cariboo region of British Columbia recently faced unprecedented transportation disruptions due to a series of complex landslides, which negatively impacted road infrastructure, community connectivity, and regional economic stability. In response to these challenges, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MOTT) and Stantec as the Owners Engineer jointly developed a strategic program designed to utilize Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) recovery in a targeted and effective manner. Our partnership draws on deep technical expertise, local knowledge, and collaborative project management to address the geotechnical hazards present in the Cariboo, with the overarching aim of restoring accessibility, safety, and resiliency to the region.

A key component of this program has been the intentional partnership that was developed with the Owners Engineer. By entrusting technical oversight and project delivery across several projects, the Owner has been in a better position to make informed decisions based on options, risk and competing priorities. This has allowed MOTT to focus its limited resources on high-level coordination and governance. This approach has fostered technical excellence and operational efficiency while sustaining project momentum and ensuring a clear line of accountability throughout all phases of the recovery effort. The Owners Engineer and MOTT have worked in close collaboration, maintaining open communication and a shared commitment to advancing community interests and maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.

Recognizing the diverse scope and urgency of the recovery sites, our program has employed multiple project delivery methods, each tailored to the specific needs and constraints of individual locations. These methods include design bid build Major Works tender for large-scale infrastructure rebuilds, Day Labour for smaller or rapidly mobilized repairs, First Nations Letters of Agreement (FN LAs) to promote Indigenous participation and stewardship, and the strategic engagement of regional Maintenance Contractors to ensure rapid restoration. This flexible delivery structure not only accelerated project timelines but also encouraged local economic activity and strengthened relationships with First Nations and community stakeholders, making recovery efforts more inclusive and effective.

Through integrated leadership and a multidisciplinary approach—combining geotechnical assessments, adaptive engineering design, environmental stewardship, and rigorous risk management—the program has prioritized essential transportation links efficiently. Continuous monitoring, knowledge sharing, and long-term maintenance planning are embedded in the recovery efforts, ensuring resilience against future geohazards. By maximizing the impact of DFAA recovery and exemplifying effective partnership, this initiative presents a model for disaster recovery throughout Canada’s road networks, benefitting communities and the region.