Marine Vessel Collision Shuts Down Westham Island Bridge in Delta, B.C.
A marine vessel collision has shut down the Westham Island Bridge in Delta, British Columbia, leading to significant disruptions. This historic bridge, which connects the largely rural Westham Island to Delta, is crucial for local farmers and residents.
Bridge Closure Details
The bridge was closed to vehicular traffic following a vessel strike on Tuesday evening. The closure is set to last through Thursday and Friday, with limited access for pedestrians. Local authorities have advised caution for those crossing, as the bridge may be slippery.
Impact on Local Community
Westham Island is home to several essential amenities, including the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary and the Alaksen National Wildlife Area. The bridge is the only access route for the inhabitants of the island, making this incident particularly challenging.
- The bridge, a wooden structure over 115 years old, has been regularly used by around 200 residents.
- TransLink, the authority that manages the bridge, has begun offering a free shuttle bus service between the bridge and the Ladner bus exchange.
- This shuttle operates daily from 6 a.m. to midnight.
Community Concerns
Local farmer Ian Cameron, whose family operates Mitchell Farms, expressed that this closure has severe implications for their livelihood. Farmers often rely on the bridge to transport goods to markets in Vancouver.
Cameron noted that similar accidents had previously caused prolonged bridge closures, recalling an incident in the 1960s that lasted over a week. Approximately a dozen farming families share similar concerns related to this critical infrastructure.
Future Plans for the Bridge
TransLink has acknowledged the damage and misalignment caused by the vessel strike. Representatives have stated that repair plans are in development. Additionally, there is ongoing discussion regarding a future replacement for the century-old bridge, which is still in the early design stages.
Residents and local officials are eagerly awaiting updates on repair timelines and construction plans to ensure continued access for the community of Westham Island.
