August 8, 2008

TransLink plans to replace aging Pattullo Bridge near Surrey with new toll bridge

VANCOUVER

The aging Pattullo Bridge between Surrey and New Westminster, B.C., will be replaced with a new toll bridge and it could happen sooner than expected.

The regional transit agency, TransLink, has voted to start preliminary work on a new span after receiving a consultant’s report that said a new bridge over the Fraser River would cost about as much as upgrading the 71-year-old Pattullo.

TransLink chairman Dale Parker says the agency’s financial resources are limited and tolls will be needed to pay for the bridge.

He also says while it normally takes about 10 years build such a span, he hopes a new bridge can be up in a shorter time, considering the problems with the narrow Pattullo crossing, where 28 people have died since 1986.

TransLink CEO Tom Prendergast says the next stage will involve deciding where the new bridge will go, what road networks will be needed and whether a new rail crossing will be integrated into the structure.

If the bridge is tolled, it would be the third pay-as-you-go span in Metro Vancouver, after the new Golden Ears Bridge, which is still under construction, and the planned Port Mann twin bridge.

The mayors of both municipalities said they applauded the decision but had their concerns.

Meanwhile, Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts told the station that while building the bridge was the right decision, she was concerned about the cost.

“It’s going to cost considerable dollars to replace that bridge,” she said.

Canadian Press

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