Construction is nearing completion on the George Massey Tunnel Safety and Reliability Improvements project by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
A memo to Delta council from the city manager Sean McGill notes much of the work, such as resurfacing and line painting on Highway 99 between Steveston Highway and the Highway 17 interchange as well as conversion to a new lighting system, have been completed.
A number of other components of the project, including an upgrade to the fire alarm, ventilation and electrical systems as well as drainage improvements, are scheduled for completion this spring.
Meanwhile, as far as the planned replacement for the 62-year-old tunnel, the B.C. government early last year unveiled two possible crossing options, one being an eight-lane tunnel while the other is a bridge with the same number of lanes.
A business case on the options was completed later in the year and is now in the hands of the transportation ministry.
The province is reviewing that submission and will consult with partners and stakeholders.
The business case will only be made public following the government’s decision.
Delta South Liberal MLA Ian Paton in the legislature last week said the upgrades are a small improvement but they won’t address the seismic safety issues or traffic bottlenecks which continue to plague the aging structure.
Paton said his constituents are running out of patience with the NDP’s countless delays on replacing the tunnel.
