Drivers and cyclists who rely on the aging Pattullo Bridge, be warned.
TransLink has announced plans to spend 18 months rehabilitating the crossing, and the impact on traffic will be severe.
During the construction, which is scheduled to start midway through 2016, only two of the Pattullo’s four lanes will be open to traffic during the day. At night and on weekends, the entire crossing will be closed.
Additionally, for the entire rehabilitation, the sidewalk will be shut off to pedestrians and cyclists and heavy trucks won’t be allowed on the bridge.
TransLink said the closures were determined after months of analysis and consultation with stakeholders, including the cities of Surrey and New Westminster, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, emergency responders, and Port Metro Vancouver.
The B.C. Trucking Association, New Westminster Chamber of Commerce and Surrey Board of Trade were also consulted.
TransLink advised Pattullo users to plan ahead and consider alternative options, including other bridges, transit or carpooling.
The 78-year-old Pattullo Bridge is one of the oldest in Metro Vancouver, and TransLink said extensive deck work and seismic improvements are needed to ensure its safety.
