After years of construction, delays, and partial openings and re-closings, Metro Vancouver’s newest bridge is set to fully open to traffic this weekend.
The stal̕əw̓asəm or Riverview Bridge, designed to replace the Pattullo Bridge, between Surrey and New Westminster, will open all four lanes at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14.
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The consortium of constructors behind the project, Fraser Crossing Partners, says drivers will be able to access the bridge from McBride Boulevard and the new Royal Avenue on-ramp in New Westminster, and King George Boulevard in Surrey.
B.C.’s Ministry of Transportation first opened a single northbound lane across the bridge in late December. Both the Pattullo and its replacement were completely closed one week ago to allow crews to connect roads to the stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge.
TransLink, which operates the Pattullo Bridge, says it is permanently closed to vehicles.
“The sidewalk will remain open for cyclists and pedestrians until the morning of Feb. 17,” TransLink explained.
The newly completed bridge will include what’s described as modern, wider lanes separated by a centre median barrier, and wider walking and cycling paths in both directions. The province has also promised commuters from New Westminster and Surrey improved connections and upgrades to the existing road networks on both sides.
The estimated cost for the project is $1.637 billion.
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—With files from Sonia Aslam
