The Mountain Highway Interchange on Highway 1 is now open on the North Shore.
The project delivers a new eastbound off-ramp, new westbound on-ramp, five-lane Mountain Highway underpass and widens as well as realigns the Mountain Highway.
The province said the improvements will make daily commute faster and safer for 120,000 people travelling to and from North Shore daily.
The original Highway 1 – Lower Lynn Interchanges were designed and built more than 50 years ago.
Once the full Lower Lynn Improvement Project is complete, Highway 1 travel during peak times is expected to be reduced by at least nine minutes in the eastbound direction and four minutes in the westbound direction.
The new roadwork will create safer merge lanes and reduce the risk of crashes in the area by one-third, BC said.
The project will also improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians with new bike paths, sidewalks, trails and multi-use pathways.
Funding for all four phases of the project is being provided by the province ($76.7 million), Government of Canada ($66.6 million) and the District of North Vancouver ($54.7 million).
“With Phase 1 of the project now complete, we’re pleased to share that those travelling throughout the North Shore will experience improved connections and traffic flow,” said Mayor Mike Little of the District of North Vancouver.
“These enhancements and upgrades will reduce commute times, while also improving safety for all travellers, including vehicle drivers, pedestrians and cyclists,” Little said.
“Traffic on the North Shore leaves thousands of commuters frustrated daily,” said Bowinn Ma, MLA for North Vancouver-Lonsdale, on behalf of Claire Trevena, B.C.’s Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
“Drivers will experience improved traffic flow and better connections with the completion of this phase of the Lower Lynn Improvement project, which will be a welcome relief for those who drive.”
Using Mountain Highway for over 50 years we were worried about the change however you all have a done a spectacular job. Once all the signage and construction is gone is it smooth sailing. I also love the beautiful gravel and cedar fence walkways surrounding the overpass area. Well Done!