Provincial crews standing by to monitor, clear highways and bridges

WITH snow in the Lower Mainland forecast in the coming days, maintenance crews remain on-site to monitor and clear provincial roads and bridges, the Province announced on Wednesday.

On the Port Mann Bridge, lane closures are in effect while rope access technicians are busy reloading snow collars to each of the bridge’s 288 cables. Maintenance crews continue to apply de-icer to the crossbeams on the Alex Fraser Bridge, are making frequent patrols of the provincial highway system, have salt and brine stockpiles and snow plows ready to go as needed.

At the Regional Transportation Management Centre, ministry staff provide a 24/7 service with real-time monitoring of road and traffic conditions. The centre is equipped with more than 200 live-streaming video feeds and over 600 cameras. The information gathered allows staff to provide travel information on DriveBC and alert drivers by broadcasting updates on changeable message signs. By working to monitor, communicate and respond to the information the centre receives, the ministry is helping to improve driver information and the safety of the travelling public in Metro Vancouver, as well as around the province.

The snowy holiday forecast is a reminder for everyone to use extra caution, drive to the current conditions, and pay particular attention to lane closures and traffic control as crews work to keep bridges clear and highways safe for travel. The ministry encourages all travellers to check DriveBC for regular updates, plan their routes carefully, allow for extra time, and stay safe over the holidays.