How can construction projects in British Columbia ensure public safety and smooth traffic flow amid rapid infrastructure growth?
From expanding highways in Surrey to new commercial builds in Abbotsford, Langley, and the Fraser Valley, construction zones in BC are becoming increasingly common. While these developments signal economic progress, they also bring a critical challenge: ensuring safe and effective traffic control for both the public and on-site workers.
Whether you’re a contractor, project manager, or municipal planner, a well-designed traffic control plan is essential for minimizing disruption, complying with WorkSafeBC and MOTI guidelines, and protecting lives. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top 5 traffic control strategies for BC construction projects, each designed to maintain safety and keep traffic moving efficiently.
For those seeking expert support, many local construction teams turn to Township Traffic, a leading provider of traffic management services in the Fraser Valley. Known for their reliability and experience, Township Traffic delivers solutions tailored to the unique traffic conditions in Langley, Surrey, Abbotsford, and beyond.
1. Use of Certified Traffic Control Persons (TCPs)
One of the most effective strategies for maintaining safety and order is deploying certified traffic control persons (TCPs) on-site. These professionals are trained in the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure’s traffic control standards and help guide both pedestrian and vehicle traffic safely around construction zones.
Whether it’s a busy intersection in Langley or a highway project near Chilliwack, having TCPs on-site ensures:
- Real-time directions for drivers and pedestrians
- Immediate response to traffic disruptions
- Safer working conditions for onsite crews
Local companies like Township Traffic provide experienced TCPs across BC, helping projects stay compliant and safe.
2. Creating a Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan (TMP)
Before construction begins, it’s crucial to develop a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) that meets local municipal regulations. A TMP outlines how vehicle, pedestrian, and cyclist traffic will be rerouted or controlled throughout the life of the project.
Key elements of a strong TMP include:
- Road closure schedules
- Signage and detour plans
- Emergency vehicle access
- Communication plans with stakeholders (residents, businesses, transit authorities)
In high-traffic areas like Abbotsford or Mission, customized TMPs are especially important to prevent congestion and delays. Companies like Township Traffic offer TMP creation and approval support, ensuring that plans align with WorkSafeBC and MOTI regulations.
3. Use of Advanced Warning and Detour Signage
Clear, visible signage is a cornerstone of effective traffic control during road construction. Warning signs should be placed well ahead of construction zones to allow drivers to adjust speed or change lanes safely. Detour signs should be intuitive and placed strategically for easy navigation.
Common signage includes:
- Road Work Ahead
- Lane Closed
- Prepare to Stop
- Detour Arrows and Route Markers
To meet BC standards, signs should be high-visibility, weather-resistant, and placed according to MOTI guidelines. A professional firm like Township Traffic supplies and installs approved traffic signs throughout Surrey, Langley, and nearby communities, helping maintain flow and reduce confusion for commuters.
4. Traffic Signal Adjustments and Lane Shifts
In urban areas, particularly around Surrey City Centre or Downtown Abbotsford, it’s often necessary to adjust traffic signals or introduce temporary lane shifts to accommodate construction. This keeps traffic moving and minimizes congestion.
Temporary changes may include:
- Altered signal timing during peak hours
- Temporary turning lanes or one-way systems
- Reduced speed limits through the work zone
Implementing these changes requires coordination with local municipalities and sometimes BC’s Ministry of Transportation. Providers like Township Traffic specialize in coordinating with local authorities to make these adjustments legally and safely.
5. Nighttime and Off-Peak Work Scheduling
To reduce disruption on busy roadways like Highway 1 or Fraser Highway, many projects opt for nighttime or off-peak work schedules. This is especially effective in urban zones where daytime closures would create major traffic bottlenecks.
Benefits of nighttime traffic control include:
- Reduced vehicle volume = safer work conditions
- Less disruption to businesses and residents
- Faster project completion timelines
However, nighttime work requires additional safety measures, such as extra lighting, illuminated signage, and noise mitigation plans. Township Traffic provides 24/7 traffic control services, including night crews trained to operate under low-visibility conditions.
Why Hire a Local Traffic Control Company in BC?
Hiring a local traffic management provider ensures that you’re working with experts who understand:
- Regional traffic flow patterns
- Local bylaws and permitting requirements
- Weather-related adjustments (snow, fog, heavy rain)
- Community engagement and notification strategies
Based in Langley, Township Traffic serves clients across the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford, Surrey, and Metro Vancouver. They offer:
- Certified TCPs and lane technicians
- Full-service traffic planning and equipment rentals
- Setup and takedown for all types of construction projects
- Emergency response traffic services
Their team is trained to manage everything from small utility repairs to multi-lane highway expansions.
Conclusion
Traffic control in British Columbia is about much more than just setting up cones or posting signs. It’s a vital part of every construction project—helping to protect workers and pedestrians, reduce traffic disruptions, and ensure compliance with BC regulations. Whether you’re handling a residential construction site in Chilliwack or coordinating a major infrastructure upgrade in Surrey, applying the right traffic control strategies is essential to maintaining safety and efficiency.
Choosing a local traffic management service provider can make all the difference. Companies that understand the traffic patterns and municipal requirements of Abbotsford, Langley, Mission, and the broader Fraser Valley bring added value through experience and responsiveness.
If you need a reliable partner to manage your project’s traffic control, consider Township Traffic. With a proven track record across BC’s Lower Mainland, they offer certified TCPs, custom traffic management plans, signage, lane closures, and more—all tailored to meet the needs of BC construction zones.