At least one leader in the North Thompson wouldn’t be surprised if the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project is put on hold.

Clearwater Mayor Merlin Blackwell tells NL News the project is supposed to start through his community late in the summer, but says we have no idea where we’ll be with COVID-19 at that point.

He also commented on work camps which, in Clearwater, is planned to have about 450 workers.

“I think at this particular moment in time, camps are completely off the book. Even the camp here in Clearwater, they cleared the land for it a few days ago. I think construction of that camp may even go on hold,” he says.

“I don’t think anything’s off the table at this point, I obviously hope that doesn’t happen, we need all the stimulus we can have here in our area. But at the same time, health is number one. We have to protect our citizens. So I’m sure everyone is listening to the best health science on this and will make the best decision accordingly.”

Blackwell says he hopes to have more information from Trans Mountain sometime today.

When asked about its work camps – which will be in Valemount, Blue River, Clearwater, Merritt and near Hope – Trans Mountain didn’t say what changes it’s making but says it’s adhering to guidelines from government.

Meanwhile, it says there are no delays in construction so far from COVID-19, saying staff are working from home wherever possible. It also has cancelled cross-border travel for business.

“We are in close communication with our construction contractors and following all advice… including following social distancing protocols and requiring workers to quarantine if they have travelled outside of Canada,” the Crown corporation says in a statement to NL News.

“This is a dynamic situation and we will continue to respond in a thoughtful, balanced and disciplined way.”