NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release 2010TRAN0057-001002 Aug. 31, 2010

Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure

 

SAFETY ENHANCED ON VEDDER CANAL BRIDGES

 

CHILLIWACK – Work has begun today on improvements to enhance the safety of the Vedder Canal Bridges on Highway 1 south of Chilliwack, Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Shirley Bond announced today.

 

“Following a recent incident in this area, and in consultation with my colleagues John Les and Barry Penner, I discussed this incident after which I asked staff to carry out an engineering safety review. The review is now complete and confirms the roadway and bridge meets applicable standards. However, a number of proactive measures were identified to promote greater driver awareness as they approach these crossings, and provide additional protection in the event of a crash.”

 

Safety enhancements on both the northbound and southbound bridges will include:

 

·         Concrete roadside barriers will be extended 150 metres on the approaches.

·         Additional reflectors will be installed on the concrete roadside barriers and bridge guardrails to increase driver awareness.

·         A second row of rumble strips will be installed on each approach.

·         “Shoulders Ending” warning signs will be installed on each approach.

·         White pavement markings will be installed along the shoulders to increase driver awareness.

 

In addition, concrete barriers with reflectors will be installed along the length of both bridges to reduce the potential of vehicles striking the railings, with engineering and design already under way. These barriers will be installed on both sides of each structure.

 

“Following the most recent incident, I asked the minister if further measures to enhance safety were possible,” said Chilliwack MLA John Les. “While there was no evidence the bridge was a problem, I’m pleased to see that further precautions are being taken. These upgrades will help keep drivers aware and attentive while approaching and crossing the bridge to help avoid future accidents.”  

 

“While the Vedder Canal Bridge still meets current safety standards, I’m very supportive of the additional safety upgrades,” said Chilliwack-Hope MLA Barry Penner. “Improved highway safety in our area is something I’ve been working on with my colleagues, such as building the first roundabout on a provincial highway in B.C. and also installing the first modern cable barrier in our province.”

 

Final works are expected to be completed later this fall.

 

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Media Contact:

Dave Crebo Public Affairs Bureau Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure 250 387-7787

 

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