Pattullo Bridge Replacement Nears Completion in British Columbia
The long-delayed replacement of British Columbia’s Pattullo Bridge is entering its final phase, with provincial officials aiming for a late-2025 opening—almost two years later than initially planned. This significant Fraser River crossing reshapes how commuters travel between Surrey and New Westminster.
Project Overview and Scope
The new structure is a four-lane cable-stayed bridge that will succeed the original 1937 truss bridge spanning the Fraser River, a major commuter route in the region. The project is managed by the province’s Transportation Investment Corporation.
Contract and Financial Details
- In 2020, design-build-finance contract was awarded to Fraser Crossing Partners, a joint venture of Aecon Group Inc. and Acciona Infrastructure Canada Inc.
- Initial project value at financial close was approximately $1.05 billion.
- Updated provincial reports list the total cost near $1.22 billion, accounting for inflation and currency changes.
Project Delays and Challenges
Work was originally scheduled to begin in spring 2020 with completion targeted for 2023. However, pandemic-related disruptions to supply chains—especially in steel and cable manufacturing—have extended timelines and delayed the project delivery by almost two years.
When ENR last reported on the project in early 2020, work was set to begin that spring with completion expected by 2023.
These challenges pushed procurement schedules back significantly, affecting overall progress.
Author's Summary
The Pattullo Bridge replacement project in British Columbia, delayed by pandemic-related supply issues, now aims for a late-2025 opening with costs rising to $1.22 billion.