Coquitlam and Surrey now linked by new Port Mann Bridge
Posted June 21, 2012 4:11 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
SURREY (NEWS1130) – It’s almost done! The Port Mann Bridge is set to open by December, on time and on budget. It will have eight lanes instead of its full 10 because the approaches to the old bridge need to be removed to allow for the new structure’s full width.
The last piece of concrete needed to link both sides was laid Thursday, marking the milestone connection between Coquitlam and Surrey.
Mike Proudfoot, CEO of the Transportation Investment Corporation, says it is the world’s widest bridge, and Canada’s second longest.
“It’s got 288 cables that equate to over 45 kilometres, if you put them end-to-end. It’s got over two kilometres of total length, with over 1,100 concrete segments that you see on the approaches.”
Despite TransLink money woes, the province does expect rapid-buses on the bridge opening day. It will be the first time public transit goes over the Highway 1 crossing in more than 20 years.
Regular users will pay a toll of roughly $3, though a full tolling structure is expected to be released in the coming weeks that will incorporate some discounts for certains drivers. There will be no grace period once the bridge is completed this year.
“We’re working on the tolling framework realizing that only eight lanes will be available to start,” says Transportation Minister Blair Lekstrom. He adds a tolling grace period was considered, but says the province needs to start bringing in cash to pay off the project.
“I think part of it is making sure it is a financially viable situation we have here with the Port Mann bridge. And we do, and it’s based on a business plan, and those tolls will kick in upon opening.”
The $3-billion project includes the new bridge and the replacement of nine Highway 1 interchanges. The full 10 lanes of the bridge will open next year.
New interchanges at 192 St. and 216 St. are still in the planning phases with the City of Surrey and the Township of Langley, respectively.
News1130 will air a showcase on the project this weekend. You’ll find an audio link to it on our website.
