Pattullo bridge replacement nears completion, gets new names

Key Takeaways:

• The new bridge has been named stal̕əw̓asəm to honor the historical and current connections of the Kwantlen First Nation and Musqueam Indian Band to the Fraser River.
• The project incorporates Coast Salish artwork, language, and cultural storytelling as part of British Columbia’s reconciliation commitments.
• The four-lane bridge with separated walking and cycling paths is designed to improve safety, reduce travel times, and enhance the regional transportation network.

The Whole Story:

The new bridge replacing the Pattullo Bridge has been officially named stal̕əw̓asəm (Riverview) by Kwantlen First Nation and Musqueam Indian Band, marking a major milestone as traffic begins shifting from the aging crossing in phases over the coming weeks.

The name, which translates to “a space where you can view the river,” honours the First Nations’ historical and current connections to the area. Former Musqueam Indian Reserve No. 1 and Kwantlen Indian Reserve No. 8 were located in qiqéyt, an important village site near the bridge’s base in Surrey.

The new four-lane bridge with a centre median and barrier-separated walking and cycling lanes will allow people, vehicles and transport trucks to travel between New Westminster and Surrey faster and more safely, the province said in a news release. Road signage will include both the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ name and English translation.

“stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge is more than just a name. It acknowledges the history of these lands, and represents the preservation of culture and language,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “This new bridge is going to transform the region’s transportation network, support people and businesses in the region, and strengthen B.C.’s economy for generations.”

Chief Marilyn Gabriel of Kwantlen First Nation said the traditional name carries significant meaning. “With the new name, we honour our past, present and future, and the importance of this area to both Kwantlen and Musqueam,” she said.

As part of the province’s reconciliation commitment, Coast Salish artwork featuring themes of kinship-based trade, transportation and intergenerational connection is being integrated into project elements on and around the bridge. Storytelling, language and educational signage will recognize the culture, history and continued stewardship of the land and waters along this section of the Fraser River.

Chief Wayne Sparrow of Musqueam Indian Band called the naming “a major milestone for hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ revitalization.” He said the province’s acknowledgment of the true history of the lands and water demonstrates its commitment to reconciliation.

On opening day, a single lane of northbound traffic will exit to eastbound East Columbia via the new off ramp. The bridge has been designed to meet modern seismic, structural and roadway design standards.