More trees are being cut down to make way for the Pattullo Bridge replacement project.
Transportation Investment Corporation and Fraser Crossing Partners have announced that tree removal will be taking place on two Saturdays – Jan. 13 and 20 – as part of the Pattullo Bridge replacement project. The work on Dufferin Street requires temporary closures of the Royal Avenue on-ramp.
“On Saturday, Jan. 13 and Saturday, Jan. 20, Fraser Crossing Partners will be completing the second stage of tree removal adjacent to the Royal Avenue on-ramp to create the required space for construction of new multi-use pathways and the improved Royal Avenue on-ramp,” said a notice about the work. “To complete this work, the Royal Avenue on-ramp will be closed between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on both days. Drivers will be directed to use the Columbia Street loop-ramp via McBride Boulevard.”
According to the project team, nearby residents may hear noise from tree removal equipment and drivers may experience temporary delays resulting from the detour.
“Traffic will be directed to the Columbia Street loop-ramp for accessing the Pattullo Bridge,” said the notice. “When required, traffic control personnel will be on site to direct traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists. All traffic pattern changes will be well-signed.”
In 2021, many trees were cut down in the early stages of the Pattullo Bridge replacement project.
“The Ministry of Transportation is complying with the city’s tree protection and regulation where applicable, and the project has retained a project arborist to provide a comprehensive tree survey and assessment,” Erika Mashig, the city’s manager of parks and open space planning, design and construction, told the Record at the time. “The project has committed to planting a minimum of two new trees for every tree that is removed (2:1 replacement ratio).”
According to the Pattullo Bridge replacement project’s website, the project team has worked closely with municipalities and First Nations on the replacement of trees and the enhancement of sites within the project area over the duration of the project. This will include planting new trees and shrubs in the area.
“As with many large construction projects, trees in the Pattullo Bridge replacement project area need to be removed to accommodate the new bridge alignment and project construction in New Westminster and Surrey,” stated the website. “All tree removal will be completed in accordance with applicable legislation and best management practices. The project team will work closely with municipalities and First Nations on the replacement of trees and the enhancement of sites within the project area over the duration of the project.”
According to the project’s website, some trees in the project area are protected trees.
“A tree protection plan is in place to preserve and protect these trees,” said the website. “Protected trees have been included in a tree inventory to establish the species, size, and current condition of trees that may need to be managed during the project.”
