By: Blair Qualey
The cold weather that has enveloped the province in recent weeks can present unique challenges, especially for drivers in the Lower Mainland or Vancouver Island who may be used to warmer winters. With conditions that can change rapidly, and weather that can fluctuate greatly, staying informed and planning ahead is essential for ensuring safe journeys — whether on your daily commute from the suburbs to the city or a road trip into the Interior and through BC’s mountain passes.
One of the most important tools available to drivers is DriveBC, which we here at the NCDA have recommended in the past. DriveBC provides real-time road conditions, traffic updates, and weather alerts for drivers in our province. In recent weeks, the BC government expanded DriveBC’s webcam network, adding 22 new cameras and 37 additional views to an ever-expanding network. These additions bring the total number of cameras to 503, delivering 1,037 live views, giving drivers a clearer picture of road conditions before they set out.
As president and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC, I have long emphasized the importance of safe driving habits, particularly in winter. These latest improvements to DriveBC will provide BC drivers with even more access to critical road information, helping them make informed decisions and reducing the risks associated with winter travel.
Key locations for new camera installations in the Lower Mainland include Highway 1 at 216 Street in Langley, which offers east and west views in one of BC’s busiest corridors, and Highway 14 at West Shore Parkway, where the camera system now provides north, west, and east views as part of a highway upgrade between Langford and Sooke.
Meanwhile, in some of BC’s more challenging winter routes, the province has introduced innovative solutions, such as the solar-powered, off-grid camera at Paulson Summit on Highway 3, near Christina Lake in the West Kootenay. This camera is equipped with weather sensors and satellite connectivity, making it a great model for future installations in the large swaths of our province where cellular and/or power infrastructure are unavailable. Additionally, a new camera at Pine Pass on Highway 97, near MacKenizie, has replaced an older, outdated unit, restoring critical coverage in a region known for heavy snowfall.
With snowfall already affecting parts of the province, DriveBC remains an essential resource for drivers looking to check road conditions before heading out. The site provides more than just live camera feeds — it also delivers real-time weather alerts, construction updates, border wait times, and ferry schedules, all of which help motorists plan ahead.
As technology advances, the DriveBC platform is undergoing a major redesign to make it even more user-friendly. The upgraded web portal, set to launch next year, will feature a more intuitive map, clearer event notifications, and improved mobile accessibility. These updates will make it easier for drivers to access key road condition reports at a glance, whether on a computer or mobile device.
Drivers can preview the new site and provide feedback at beta.drivebc.ca to help shape the final version before its official launch.
Winter driving requires preparation, patience, and awareness. By taking a few extra minutes to check DriveBC before heading out, motorists can better anticipate road hazards, delays, and changing weather conditions. With the latest DriveBC upgrades and ongoing investments in road safety, the NCDA encourages all drivers to take advantage of these resources and drive with caution to ensure safer roads for everyone.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].
