Independent review calls for more study of Massey Tunnel replacement options
An independent review of a major traffic congestion zone in suburban Vancouver recommends further study of the future of the George Massey crossing project, including keeping the existing tunnel.
Work had already begun on the $3.5-billion, 10-lane bridge to replace the existing 59-year-old tunnel during the former Liberal government’s regime, but the New Democrat government put the plan on hold after it won the 2017 election.
Transportation Minister Claire Trevena says the project was flawed from the start and a smaller bridge and tunnel improvements can reduce congestion and improve the crossing.
The technical review of the crossing recommends examining the addition of new tunnel capacity and reusing the existing tunnel that links Delta and Richmond.
It says the government should re-examine the entire project to ensure it reduces future traffic congestion and provides enhanced public transit infrastructure.
Richmond’s council had complained about the massive bridge project taking over agricultural and park lands, but the review says any replacement will still encroach on those lands.
Damn fools, nice that the picture you chose for this article is one that was taken, what, on a Sunday morning? How about you take a picture to show what the tunnel really looks like. Say, anytime between 6 AM and 10 AM, or 2 PM – 7 PM during the week (even later on Fridays, or when there’s an accident). Drive the tunnel during those times, and you will see just how bad it really is. How about a couple of shots from a chopper that shows the traffic lineups in the morning and afternoon…line ups that stretch for 5 kilometers or more! The NDP and Greens are so worried about pollution, build the damn bridge so people aren’t wasting fuel idling on the highway, getting to work faster, we’ll cut way back on pollution.
Anyone who disagrees with a 10 lane bridge and massive widening of 99, including an eventual replacement of Oak St Bridge is someone who has never driven 99 before, during, or after rush hour.