The public has until later this month to comment on the latest consultation phase of the George Massey Tunnel Replacement Project.
Aimed at finalizing the project scope, cost and funding plan, the third phase of the province's consultation process for the mega project began last month, following the release of a Project Definition Report, and goes until Jan. 28.
People will be able to comment on the report, which provides more details about the scope of the bridge to replace the aging tunnel. Feedback is being sought on such areas as funding options and traffic management during construction.
The province has stated it plans to fund the project at least in part with user tolls and that funding partnerships are also being explored.
The 10-lane, $3.5-billion-bridge connecting Richmond with Delta across the Fraser River will have a toll in same range as the new Port Mann Bridge, Transportation Minister Todd Stone confirmed last month. Since it's not a TransLink project, a referendum on the funding or the tolls won't be required.
The final toll price will depend on a number of factors, including funding from the federal government and Port Metro Vancouver, as well as the construction contracts to be negotiated.
At more than three kilometres in length, the bridge will be 65 per cent longer than the Port Mann Bridge.
The project, which also involves a number of upgrades to highway interchanges,
will not include rapid transit but does have the ability to accommodate it in the future. Subject to an environmental review, construction is expected to begin in 2017, with the bridge completed by 2022, according the province.
The project team will review survey results from an online feeback form, e-mail comments and feedback from open houses that will be held this month, and will report back by the end of February in a document that will be posted to the project's website.
There will also be future opportunities to provide feedback. People are asked to visit the project website at engage.gov.bc.ca/masseytunnel/for updates.
OPEN HOUSES
Tuesday, Jan. 26: 2 to 8 p.m. at Sandman Signature Hotel Vancouver Airport, 10251 St. Edwards Dr.,
Richmond Wednesday, Jan. 27: 2 to 8 p.m. at Delta Town Country Inn, 6065 Highway 17A, Delta
