One part of the Pattullo Bridge replacement project was completed a little faster than expected, while another project is taking a little longer than projected.
On Sunday, TransLink announced that the northbound lane on the Pattullo Bridge had reopened because work on the Royal Avenue overpass replacement project had been completed early. Royal Avenue remained closed between McBride Boulevard and the Royal Avenue on-ramp, so screws could complete work on the new overpass.
The overpass replacement had originally been scheduled to take place from April 28 until May 1, but was postponed because of a hydraulic fluid leak with the “self-propelling modular transporter” being used to move the old and new 600-ton overpasses.
The weekend’s work saw the old overpass replaced with a new structure that includes sidewalks on both sides and meets today’s seismic and construction standards.
Meanwhile, traffic pattern changes on Columbia Street will remain in place a bit longer than expected.
“On April 17, traffic patterns changes were implemented on Columbia Street for the Pattullo Bridge replacement project to complete underground utility work,” said a notice for the project team. “This work was initially scheduled to take approximately five weeks. This work will now continue until early June.”
This work requires the eastbound closure of Columbia Street (heading from downtown toward Sapperton) between McBride Boulevard and Elliott Street. This closure is in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with traffic being detoured to Royal Avenue (via Sixth Street) and Front Street.
In addition, one westbound lane is open on weekdays between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m., including access to the Pattullo Bridge. The on-ramp will continue to be closed from 3 to 6 p.m.
According to the notice, Columbia Street between Sixth and Elliott streets remains open to local traffic, access to Columbia Street business is available, emergency vehicle access is maintained at all times, and the Central Valley Greenways remains open for pedestrians and cyclists.
