BC Parks has a few concerns about the Beitush Road widening project, but is confident that the Ministry of Highways will modify its plans to address them.
That's the word from Larry Boudreau, the section head of parks and protected Areas for Skeena region at the Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection.
Beitush Road is unpaved and runs along the Tlell River, starting just south of the bridge. The narrow road is bordered by the river on one side and by private properties on the other, but the entire area is within Naikoon Provincial Park.
Mr. Boudreau said local staff have reviewed the Ministry of Highways plans for the road, and have raised some concerns - for example, about siltation.
"We have already provided concerns and comments to them around siltation," he said. "I have no reason to believe they won't address them."
Mr. Boudreau said he is aware that some islanders are not happy about the plans, which include taking down several trees, ditching and widening the road. But in the end, he said, the road is the responsibility of the Ministry of Highways.
"It's Highways' jurisdiction," he said. "It's my understanding at this point, that it's a Highways issue."