Critical B.C. interchange project reaches major milestone

Key Takeaways:

• The first half of the new five-lane Steveston Interchange is now complete, with westbound traffic beginning to use the new structure on January 16, 2025. Eastbound traffic will follow once road tie-ins are finalized.
• When completed, the new interchange will improve traffic flow with three westbound and two eastbound lanes, enhance regional transit access, and provide safer pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, including sidewalks and separated bike lanes.
• The full Steveston Interchange is scheduled for completion in fall 2025. In the interim, the removal of the old crossing and subsequent construction phases will involve lane closures and diversions, potentially causing delays for drivers. The project is part of the larger Highway 99 Tunnel Program.

The Whole Story:

Construction of the new five-lane Steveston Interchange has hit a major milestone with the first half of the new crossing now complete.

Westbound drivers on Steveston Highway will begin using the new structure the morning of Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025.

“This is a major step in a project that will improve how people get around in our communities,” said Kelly Greene, MLA for Richmond-Steveston, on behalf of Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “When completed, the new five-lane Steveston Interchange will improve connections between Highway 99 and Steveston Highway to reduce queuing for vehicles in all directions, while improving regional transit and cycling connections. Whether you’re taking your kids to hockey practice at Richmond Ice Centre or supporting local businesses, the new interchange will help get you there faster.”

The traffic changeover will begin with westbound Steveston Highway traffic routed to the new structure overnight tonight, Wednesday, Jan. 15. Once all road tie-ins have been completed, eastbound Steveston Highway traffic will be moved to the new structure and removal of the old crossing will begin.

The removal of the old Steveston Highway crossing will take three weekends to complete and will require lane diversions on Highway 99 and periodic lane closures on Steveston Highway to allow for safe removal of the structure. During this work, drivers can expect delays and should plan alternative routes. Details of these closures will be communicated as dates are confirmed.

Once the old crossing is removed, work will begin on the second half of the new interchange. The new Steveston Interchange will have three westbound and two eastbound lanes to improve traffic flow. It will also provide better access to transit stops and safer pedestrian and cycling connections across Highway 99, with sidewalks and separated bike lanes on both sides of the overpass. The new interchange is scheduled to be finishedin fall 2025.

The Steveston Interchange Project is a key part of the Highway 99 Tunnel Program and is being delivered in advance of the new tunnel project.