The Pitt River Bridge and Mary Hill interchange project includes a new seven-lane bridge that will replace the existing swing bridges, as well as an interchange to replace the current Lougheed Highway and Mary Hill Bypass intersection.

The project milestone was announced by B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell, federal Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific Gateway) James Moore and B.C. Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Kevin Falcon.

"The Pitt River Bridge Crossing is a significant gateway for British Columbia and it's particularly important to the people of Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, and surrounding communities," said Campbell.

"Traffic over the Pitt River Bridge has almost tripled since 1985 and, with the new Golden Ears Bridge opening, more growth will follow. This new bridge and interchange will significantly improve safety and reliability along this rapidly growing transportation corridor by allowing traffic to flow more smoothly."

The Pitt River crossing connects key economic and transportation facilities with the Greater Vancouver area, added Moore. According to Transport Canada, the existing intersection at Lougheed Highway and Mary Hill Bypass will be replaced with a grade-separated interchange with on-and-off ramps that would allow for the free flow of traffic. In combination with the new bridge, these improvements will allow for the elimination of the current counter flow system.

"Hitting this milestone shows us just how far we've come on this important project," said Falcon.
"When the new bridge opens in 2009, it will not only boost safety and ease traffic congestion, it will also have positive economic and environmental benefits for the entire region."