A significant step forward in a critical regional infrastructure project was marked on Christmas Eve, as crews opened the first lane for traffic on the new bridge being built to replace the aging Pattullo Bridge.
A Long-Awaited Milestone Achieved
The new structure, officially named the stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge, saw its first lane become operational on December 24, 2025. This initial opening represents a crucial phase in the multi-year project to construct a modern, safer crossing over the Fraser River, connecting New Westminster and Surrey. The original Pattullo Bridge, opened in 1937, has long been considered seismically vulnerable and a bottleneck for traffic.
Work on the massive replacement project has been ongoing for years, with construction crews battling challenging conditions over the river to erect the new crossing. The opening of a single lane, even temporarily, is a tangible sign of progress for commuters and residents who rely on this key transportation link in Metro Vancouver.
What Comes Next for the Bridge Project?
While the single-lane opening is a positive development, it is just one step in a complex sequence. The full completion and opening of the new stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge to all traffic will follow later, as work continues on the remaining lanes, approaches, and connections. The project also includes the eventual demolition of the old Pattullo Bridge once the new structure is fully commissioned and open.
This infrastructure upgrade is designed to improve safety with wider lanes, dedicated cycling and pedestrian pathways, and better seismic resilience. It is a cornerstone of the region's strategy to manage growth and improve transportation flow between the North and South Fraser regions.
Regional Impact and Future Travel
The replacement of the Pattullo Bridge is one of the most watched infrastructure projects in British Columbia. Its successful completion will alleviate a known choke point and provide a more reliable river crossing for thousands of daily users. The December 24th lane opening, though partial, offers a first look at the future of this vital corridor.
Authorities will continue to manage traffic patterns carefully during the transition period as work progresses towards the final goal: a fully operational, modern bridge that will serve the communities of New Westminster, Surrey, and the broader Metro Vancouver area for decades to come.
