Lower Mainland commuters have a year to brace for traffic nightmares on the Pattullo Bridge.
An 18-month rehabilitation project will severely limit traffic on the aging span starting midway through 2016.
TransLink has announced plans that will see only two of the Pattullo’s four lanes open to traffic during the day. At night and on weekends, the entire crossing will be closed.
As well, the sidewalk will be closed to pedestrians and cyclists during the entire construction period, and heavy trucks won’t be allowed on the bridge.
TransLink said the closures were deemed necessary after several months of analysis and consultation with stakeholders. These include the cities of Surrey and New Westminster, the Ministry of Transportation, 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 advises users of the bridge to plan ahead and consider alternatives.
The 78-year-old bridge is one of the oldest in the Lower Mainland.
TransLink says extensive deck work and seismic improvements are needed to ensure its safety.
– with files from CTV Vancouver