The long-awaited Fraser Highway bridge over the Nicomekl River was officially opened on Saturday.
Langley City Mayor Peter Fassbender, Langley MLA Mary Polak and Langley MP Mark Warawa all took part in the opening ceremonies. The bridge was funded by all levels of government as part of the federal infrastructure program, designed to create jobs during the recent recession.
As such, it was supposed to be complete by March 31. However, weather conditions caused a number of delays, and the federal government gave its blessing to the delayed completion.
The new bridge replaces the old wooden bridge that has crossed the river for many decaces.
Langley Township is in the midst of widening the highway to four lanes just east of the bridge, so there will be four lanes of traffic from 208 Street east to the 22700 block.
The Fraser Blues aerial team did three flypasts over the bridge after the brief opening ceremonies, conducted in chilly weather. A reception followed at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, just east of the bridge. A traffic light has been installed at Old Yale Road as part of the project, making it easier to access the church and other Old Yale Road destinations.
The highway was closed for several hours during the ceremonies, but traffic was again rolling over the bridge shortly afterwards.
