A daytime closure of the Royal Avenue on-ramp to the Pattullo Bridge is required on Saturday so trees can be removed.
The Pattullo Bridge replacement project team has announced that the Royal Avenue on-ramp to the bridge will be closed on Saturday, June 15 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. so Fraser Crossing Partners can remove trees that were previously trimmed in the area.
“While the closure is in place, drivers wishing to access the Pattullo Bridge will be directed to use the Columbia Street loop-ramp via McBride Boulevard,” said a notice from the project team.
The notice warns that drivers may experience temporary delays resulting from the detour.
According to the notice, trees removed as part of project work will be replaced at a minimum ratio of 2:1.
“The project team will work closely with municipalities and First Nations on the replacement of trees and the enhancement of sites within the project area over the duration of the project,” said the notice. “This will include planting new trees and shrubs in the area.”
The Record has contacted the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for more details about the trees being removed as part of the Pattullo Bridge replacement project.
No trees being cut down this weekend, said the ministry, noting this Saturday’s Royal Avenue on-ramp closure is required to haul trees that had previously been cut down in the area between Bridge Connector and Dufferin Street.
“Six trees were removed in January 2024, due to several of the trees being compromised from a windstorm, as well as to create the required space for construction of new multi-use pathways and the improved Royal Avenue on-ramp,” said the ministry’s statement to the Record.
According to the ministry, it is estimated a total of about 200 trees need to be taken down in Surrey and New Westminster as part of the Pattullo Bridge replacement project. It reports that tree-clearing work is largely complete.
“As with many large construction projects, trees in the Pattullo Bridge replacement project area need to be removed to accommodate the new bridge alignment and project construction in New Westminster and Surrey,” said the MOTH statement. “Tree removal is done in accordance with applicable legislation and best management practices.”
The ministry said the province has hired a landscape designer and is currently engaging with the cities of New Westminster and Surrey, as well as First Nations, in developing the planting design to restore and enhance the landscape.
“The trees to be replaced will be reflected in the design with a variety of species,” said the statement. “More details will be shared when the design is further advanced.”
