Work has begun on seismic upgrades to the Agassiz-Rosedale bridge – work that will include enhancements for pedestrian and cycling access.
The $3.7 million project is expected to be completed by next summer.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure awarded the contract to Tybo Contracting Ltd. to carry out the Rosedale overhead seismic upgrade, along with cycling and pedestrian improvements to the crossing.
“We are committed to carrying out important seismic upgrades where they are needed on existing structures, as well as to building new, robust bridges, built to meet stringent seismic standards,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Claire Trevena. “This structure is a key link in our transportation network, and therefore we are upgrading it to modern-day seismic standards, as well as creating a safe pathway for cyclists and pedestrians.”
The Rosedale Overhead is located on Highway 9. It provides a key link between the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 7, connecting Rosedale and Agassiz.
Funding for the project was announced prior to the provincial election.
This structure was built in the 1950s. It requires seismic and safety upgrades to bring it up to modern-day standards, and to maintain current levels of service for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.
The work will include:
• a seismic upgrade to the structure;
• the widening of the bridge deck; and
• steel fencing on both sides of the structure.
The existing bridge deck is narrow, requiring traffic to navigate around cyclists and pedestrians, creating hazardous conditions for all road users. The project will provide steel fencing on both sides of the structure, with two-metre shoulders, allowing a safe pathway for cyclists and pedestrians.
The ministry has been working in close partnership with the Cheam First Nation on this project. The Cheam First Nation is accommodating the ministry by providing access through its land.
Work will require single-lane alternating traffic in order to accommodate the project. Traffic delays are expected. Motorists are advised to be aware of the project, to use alternative routes where possible, and to check DriveBC for updates.
