The Hwy. 17A overpass, that was crippled from a big truck collision in July, will be rehabilitated next year — at a cost of $1.4 million.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has approved the final design for repairs for the overpass that crosses Hwy. 99. The structure was damaged when a big truck, southbound on Hwy. 99, smashed into the underside of the overpass on July 18.
As a result, the southbound lanes on the 17A overpass were closed for several days, requiring long detours for residential and business traffic to Ladner and Tsawwassen.
However, two-way traffic resumed on the overpass on Aug. 1.
According to the ministry, plans are underway for traffic management and construction staging for the repairs. Work is expected to begin in November and wrap up by next summer. Commuters will be told of changes to traffic patterns via DriveBC, social media and roadside signage.
Two of the five girders of the overpass, built in 1959, will need significant repairs.
During 2022, and up until June 14 of this year, 19 commercial trucks have crashed into highway overpasses, most of those in the Lower Mainland.
The ministry has indicated that higher fines, steeper penalties, longer suspensions, and more driver education will be brought “in the coming months.”
