The only bridge connecting Westham Island in Delta to the mainland remains out of commission following a recent barge collision, leaving residents stranded from vehicular access.
Delta Mayor George Harvie labeled the barge strike as a significant incident involving a large vessel, causing damage to the bridge that is currently being assessed by TransLink, the bridge manager.
TransLink spokesperson Thor Diakow stated that surveys and underwater evaluations are ongoing to determine the extent of the damage and develop a repair plan. Until these assessments are complete, there is no timeline for when vehicle traffic can resume on the bridge.
In response to the incident, the City of Delta issued a precautionary boil water advisory for the island after discovering a watermain pipe leak during assessments post-collision. However, there is no confirmed contamination in the island’s water supply, and further water-quality testing is being conducted.
Residents of Westham Island are advised to use boiled or bottled water for various purposes until the water safety is assured.
Concerns have been raised by Ian Paton, the BC Conservative MLA for Delta South, regarding the impact on local farmers who rely on transportation across the bridge to deliver their agricultural products to markets. The disruption has created challenges for moving millions of dollars worth of produce and livestock from the island.
TransLink had been in the planning stages for a permanent bridge replacement prior to the incident, but the project was still years away from completion. In the meantime, a shuttle service has been introduced to help residents travel between Westham Island, Wellington Point Park, and Ladner.
As the community awaits updates on the bridge repairs and potential replacements, Westham Island residents can currently only cross the bridge on foot, with no clarity on when vehicle traffic will resume.