Metro Vancouver is finally welcoming its newest bridge, the Riverview Bridge, set to fully open to traffic this weekend after years of construction and setbacks. The bridge, replacing the Pattullo Bridge connecting Surrey and New Westminster, will open all four lanes at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14.
Fraser Crossing Partners, the consortium behind the project, has announced that drivers can access the bridge from various points including McBride Boulevard, Royal Avenue on-ramp in New Westminster, and King George Boulevard in Surrey.
The transition to the new bridge began when a single northbound lane was opened in late December. Now, the Pattullo and its replacement have been fully closed to complete the connection of roads to the Riverview Bridge.
The new bridge boasts modern features such as wider lanes, a center median barrier, and expanded walking and cycling paths in both directions. Commuters from New Westminster and Surrey can expect improved connections and upgrades to the existing road networks on both sides.
The project comes with a hefty price tag of $1.637 billion, but promises enhanced transportation infrastructure for the region.