VANCOUVER, B.C. — Commuters crossing the Fraser River into Surrey face significant disruptions this week as southbound lanes on the Pattullo Bridge close for three consecutive nights to accommodate critical construction on the bridge's replacement project. The closures, affecting all southbound vehicular traffic as well as pedestrians and cyclists, will run from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. each night, starting Thursday and continuing through Friday and Sunday, according to TransLink, the regional transportation authority overseeing the work.
The Pattullo Bridge, a vital artery connecting New Westminster to Surrey since its opening in 1937, has long been a bottleneck for Metro Vancouver's growing population. The current replacement initiative, launched in 2018, aims to modernize the aging structure with a wider, seismically upgraded span capable of handling increased traffic volumes and improved safety for all users. Officials with TransLink emphasized that these overnight shutdowns are essential to progress on the project, which is nearing completion.
"These closures are needed to secure a new overhead directional traffic sign along King George Boulevard," TransLink stated in a release. "The large sign will be installed over the right lane of the replacement bridge, before the Scott Road exit ramp." The installation requires heavy equipment, including a drill rig, to be positioned near the south side of the existing bridge, necessitating the full closure of both southbound lanes for worker safety.
Northbound travel across the bridge into New Westminster remains unaffected, allowing residents and workers on that side to proceed without interruption. However, drivers heading south toward Surrey are advised to seek alternate routes, with TransLink recommending the Port Mann Bridge or the Alex Fraser Bridge as primary detours. These alternatives, while capable of absorbing redirected traffic, could add up to 30 minutes to typical commute times, particularly during peak evening hours.
Public transit users will also feel the impact, as the N19 NightBus service between New Westminster and Scott Road stations is being rerouted via the Alex Fraser and Queensborough bridges. TransLink officials urge riders to check updated schedules and allow extra time for journeys. "Drivers and transit-users should plan for up to 30 added minutes of travel time," the agency noted, highlighting the potential for delays in the region's already congested network.
Signs alerting motorists to the changing traffic patterns will be posted in advance, and on-site traffic control personnel will be present to guide vehicles and ensure smooth diversions. The closures are scheduled specifically for Thursday, Friday, and Sunday nights to minimize disruption during the weekend, when traffic volumes are generally lower. This strategic timing reflects broader efforts by transportation planners to balance construction needs with public convenience in one of Canada's fastest-growing urban areas.
The Pattullo Bridge replacement project has been a multi-year endeavor, costing over $1 billion and involving extensive engineering to widen the crossing from two to five lanes while adding dedicated paths for cyclists and pedestrians. Originally built as a toll bridge, the structure has undergone numerous repairs over the decades but was deemed seismically vulnerable following assessments in the early 2000s. The new design incorporates modern features like suicide barriers and enhanced lighting, addressing community concerns raised during public consultations.
Local leaders have praised the project's progress, though not without acknowledging the temporary inconveniences. Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke, whose city relies heavily on the bridge for daily commutes, commented in a recent council meeting that the upgrades are "long overdue and will transform connectivity in our region." She encouraged residents to stay informed through official channels to avoid unnecessary frustration.
TransLink's announcement comes amid a series of infrastructure updates in Metro Vancouver, including ongoing work on the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension and repairs to the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge. These concurrent projects underscore the challenges of maintaining mobility in a metropolitan area where the population is projected to exceed 3.5 million by 2040. Transportation experts, such as those from the Urban Development Institute, have noted that such closures, while disruptive, are crucial for long-term resilience against climate and seismic risks.
One commuter, Sarah Jenkins, a Surrey-based nurse who crosses the bridge nightly for her shift at Royal Columbian Hospital, expressed mixed feelings about the news. "It's going to make my drive home longer, but I get why they have to do it," she said during a phone interview. "The old bridge shakes like crazy sometimes; the new one can't come soon enough." Her sentiments echo those of many in the community, where support for the project remains strong despite short-term headaches.
Environmental advocates have also weighed in, pointing out that the replacement includes greener elements like wildlife corridors and reduced emissions from smoother traffic flow. The David Suzuki Foundation, in a statement last year, applauded the initiative for prioritizing sustainability in urban planning. However, some cyclists' groups have called for better communication during closures, arguing that the pedestrian and bike path shutdowns could deter active transportation options.
As the work progresses, TransLink reports that the overall project is on track for substantial completion within weeks, with full opening anticipated by early next year. Detailed updates, including timelines and traffic advisories, are available on the project's dedicated website at pattullobridgereplacement.ca. The site also features interactive maps and FAQs to help users navigate the changes.
Looking ahead, these closures represent the final major hurdles before the new Pattullo Bridge fully opens, promising to alleviate chronic congestion that has plagued the route for years. With Metro Vancouver's economy tied to efficient cross-river travel—supporting industries from logistics to healthcare—the timely finish of this project could yield significant economic benefits. Officials estimate that the upgraded bridge will reduce annual delay costs by millions, benefiting taxpayers and businesses alike.
In the meantime, authorities are monitoring traffic volumes closely and prepared to adjust plans if unexpected issues arise. For those affected, the message from TransLink is clear: patience and planning are key. As one agency spokesperson put it, "We're building a bridge for the future, and these steps ensure it's done right."
The closures highlight the delicate balance between progress and daily life in a bustling region, where every minute saved or lost on the road can impact thousands. With alternatives in place and the finish line in sight, commuters are encouraged to adapt and look forward to a more reliable crossing in the months ahead.