A moveable barrier system with a zipper truck will make its debut on the Alex Fraser Bridge this month.
The counter flow will improve capacity on the bridge, reduce congestion, and eliminates potential for cross-over collisions with traffic continually separated by barriers, the government said.
The system is in the testing phase and is expected to be in place sometime in mid-December this year.
The extra lane will be in place for northbound traffic every weekday from 4:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to help ensure a more efficient and consistent travel time during the morning commute.
Outside of these hours, the fourth lane will be open to ease congestion for southbound traffic.
To help keep travellers safe and traffic flowing efficiently as part of the counter flow operations, the speed limit on the Alex Fraser Bridge has been permanently lowered from 90 km/h to 70 km/h.
Upgrades for cyclists and pedestrians include new way finding signs, better access via the Cliveden Avenue interchange, widening narrow sections of sidewalk on the bridge and improvements to the Cliveden and Nordel pathways.
“The Alex Fraser Bridge project shows how we are working closely with our partners to build the modern transportation infrastructure needed to keep people safe and support long-term economic growth,” said Catherine McKenna, federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities
They use this system in New Zealand. Works great.