BC MLA Harman Bhangu reignites criticism over Pattullo Bridge’s four-lane design, while Minister Farnworth defends NDP’s regional planning approach.
Pattullo Bridge Design Draws Fire from BC Conservative MLA
A familiar infrastructure debate has reignited in British Columbia, as BC Conservative MLA Harman Bhangu took aim at the four-lane replacement design for the Pattullo Bridge. In a June 26 appearance on the Coastal Front podcast, the Langley-Abbotsford representative called the plan a “missed opportunity,” arguing that a six-lane bridge is essential to meet the Lower Mainland’s growing transportation demands.
Truck Congestion and Connectivity Cited
Bhangu, the Conservative Party’s transportation critic, pointed to frequent congestion caused by trucks occupying multiple lanes on the current span. He also criticized the bridge’s limited connectivity—particularly the lack of direct access to Columbia Street in New Westminster. Praising the Golden Ears Bridge for its better planning, Bhangu suggested that the Pattullo’s design falls short in comparison.
Local Division Over Bridge Expansion
The Pattullo Bridge’s lane capacity has long been a flashpoint in regional infrastructure planning. New Westminster residents have resisted a six-lane proposal, citing concerns over increased traffic and impacts on residential areas. In contrast, Surrey officials—including Mayor Brenda Locke—have repeatedly denounced the four-lane design as inadequate for current and future demand.
NDP Defends Infrastructure Strategy
Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth, defending the NDP government’s position, dismissed Bhangu’s comments as “insane.” He reiterated that a six-lane bridge would require disruptive redevelopment in New Westminster. Farnworth added that the plan reflects Metro Vancouver’s priorities and emphasized the project’s modern safety features and design standards.
Government Highlights Safety and Scope
According to the Ministry of Transportation, the new Pattullo Bridge will span 29 metres—more than double the width of the current structure. The bridge will include four standard-width lanes, space for safety barriers, and two multi-use pedestrian and cycling paths. Farnworth said these features will significantly improve safety, especially for commercial vehicles.
Calls for Broader, Long-Term Planning
Bhangu also questioned the province’s broader infrastructure strategy and project budgeting, suggesting that a more business-minded, growth-focused approach was needed. He claimed the government is spreading resources too thin across unfinished projects and that private-sector collaboration could have yielded better design outcomes.
Future Priorities in Focus
Beyond the Pattullo, Bhangu pointed to the George Massey Tunnel replacement as the province’s most urgent transportation need. He argued that a more flexible approach to the Pattullo Bridge could have accommodated future growth, particularly with support from private stakeholders offering land and exit options.
Fall Opening Still on Track
Despite renewed political debate, the NDP government confirmed that the new four-lane Pattullo Bridge remains on schedule to open later this fall. The disagreement underscores the continuing challenge of aligning urban growth, infrastructure demands, and local concerns in British Columbia’s fast-growing regions.
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