Why upgrade the Pattullo Bridge if it’s slated for full replacement?

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METRO VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Questions are being raised about why more money is being spent to upgrade the Pattullo Bridge when it’s slated for replacement at some point in the future.

TransLink says it’s because of safety concerns and the patch work they’ve been doing over the last few summers isn’t good enough anymore.

“[We are] doing this rehabilitation program simply to ensure the safety for the traveling public,” says Vice President of Infrastructure Management and Engineering Fred Cummings.

“We’ve done all the maintenance and patching work that was necessary to maintain the bridge operable and serviceable standard and this is the next step — rehabilitate the deck to ensure that safety.”

He doesn’t believe any expense to ensure safety on the bridge is a waste of money and replacing the new bridge isn’t happening anytime soon because there’s a process involved.

“That’s going to take a minimum of six to eight years. There’s a lot of work to be done prior to building a new bridge and so this work is required during that period,” says Cummings.

Yesterday we learned renovations will start next summer, lasting 18 months. The bridge will close nights and weekends, and go down to one lane each way during the day. Trucks won’t be allowed on at all during that time.

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