Drivers in the area should prepare for a significant traffic disruption coming up in just one week.
Starting at 8 p.m. on February 6, both the Pattullo and stal̕əw̓asəm bridges will be closed for a minimum of a week as construction crews work on connecting the new crossing to the surrounding roads. Commuters will need to factor in extra time for their travels and anticipate heavier traffic and possible delays on the Alex Fraser and Port Mann bridges.
New Westminster Mayor Patrick Johnstone expressed that the construction process has been quite challenging, particularly with the upcoming closure of both bridges for a week. He emphasized the importance of communicating closures in advance to help people plan accordingly.
Johnstone highlighted the impact on local residents, especially those living near the bridges, as they will bear the brunt of the disruptions. He stressed the need for a safer crossing and raised concerns about potential traffic issues in the densely populated residential areas surrounding the bridges.
The completion of the new Riverview Bridge will feature wider lanes, a center median barrier, and enhanced walking and cycling paths in both directions, aiming to improve connectivity for commuters in New Westminster and Surrey.
Despite the expected benefits of the new bridge, the transition phase may bring further challenges for drivers as the old crossing is dismantled, a process that could take up to two years to complete at an estimated cost of $1.637 billion.
Keyphrase: bridge construction disruptions