The long-awaited completion of the new Pattullo Bridge is on the horizon after significant delays, construction challenges, and a hefty budget.
The Ministry of Transportation has revealed that the new bridge is anticipated to be fully operational for drivers just in time for Christmas Day, marking a significant milestone in the project timeline.
Featuring modern design elements such as wider lanes with a central barrier, enhanced cycling and walking paths in both directions, the upgraded Pattullo Bridge aims to enhance safety, reliability, and overall connectivity for commuters, cyclists, and pedestrians. The project also promises to strengthen transportation links between New Westminster and Surrey, offering improved infrastructure on either side of the bridge.
According to Angelene Prakash, the executive director of the Downtown New Westminster Business Improvement Association, the nearing completion of the project brings a sense of relief to the community. Prakash emphasizes the impact of the aging infrastructure on local businesses, expressing hope that the new bridge will revitalize the area and attract more visitors to support the local economy.
While acknowledging the positive prospects the new bridge brings, Prakash remains cautiously optimistic about its actual impact on traffic congestion and business expansion. She highlights the need to observe how the enhanced infrastructure will influence commuter behavior and accessibility to commercial spaces in the downtown area.
Despite the anticipation surrounding the new bridge, Prakash acknowledges the challenges of further expanding businesses in the city due to limited space in the historic Downtown New Westminster. With ongoing urban development shaping the landscape, she stresses the importance of advocating for additional commercial opportunities within the evolving cityscape.
As the project nears completion, residents and business owners are eager to see the benefits of the new bridge, hoping for improved traffic flow and increased economic activity in the area.