NEW WESTMINSTER, B.C. — A bridge that serves as a major commuter crossing in Metro Vancouver is being replaced.
Replacing the Pattullo Bridge between Surrey and New Westminster will cost $1.37 billion and will be funded solely by the British Columbia government.
Premier John Horgan says the bridge is well past its best before date.
The original bridge opened in 1937 and was expected to have a lifespan of 50 years.
The new four-lane bridge can be expanded to six lanes with construction expected to start next year.
Transportation Minister Claire Trevena says the new bridge will ensure public safety and make it easier to connect between Surrey and New Westminster.
BC Government announces this morning that it is taking over ownership, operation, and replacement of the Patullo Bridge so that the @TransLink Mayors Council can focus on the 10-Year Vision. #bcpoli pic.twitter.com/6xNNWSR0p6
— Bowinn Ma (@BowinnMa) February 16, 2018