Drivers heading to New Westminster this weekend may want to consider a route that doesn't include a trip over the Pattullo Bridge.
Construction, as part of the ongoing $1.377-billion replacement for the Fraser River crossing between New West and Surrey, is set to block northbound commutes tonight, Sept. 8 and Saturday, Sept. 9.
The good news (for most): it's taking place overnight in hopes of reducing any major weekend traffic concerns.
Crews are set to install new steel girders near the existing bridge, TransLink explained in a statement, with the work taking place between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. both days.
Southbound into Surrey will remain open, and pedestrians and cyclists will be able to use the bridge in both directions during the construction, headed by the B.C. government.
"We thank bridge users and neighbours for their patience during this work," TransLink added.
"When completed, the new bridge will provide important improvements — including wider lanes separated by a median barrier and separate walking and cycling lanes."
Commuting overnight?
Signs and personnel will be set up to alert drivers of traffic pattern changes.
Those that regularly utilize the Pattullo Bridge overnight are being encouraged to consider going over the Port Mann or Alex Fraser bridges to get to New Westminster.
Transit riders for TransLink's N19 Nightbus and route 103 trips are set to be redirected to the Alex Fraser and Queensborough bridges to and from the Scott Road SkyTrain Station.
The new Pattullo Bridge is expected to open in 2024.
You can watch the Pattullo Bridge Replacement Project website for updates.
- with a file from Theresa McManus, New Westminster Record
