TransLink Plans Replacement for Historic Westham Island Bridge

TransLink is initiating plans to replace the aging Westham Island Bridge, a structure built in **1910** that spans the south arm of the Fraser River in Metro Vancouver. This bridge connects Ladner to Westham Island, an area primarily characterized by farmland and protected natural zones. The bridge, one of only four vehicle crossings operated by TransLink, is notably the narrowest, featuring a single-lane wood-deck truss design that measures **325 metres** in length and **4.4 metres** in height above the river.

The bridge’s swing span, which opens up to **eight times a day** to allow marine traffic, is crucial for accommodating various vessels, including fishing boats and houseboats. However, the bridge has been showing signs of accelerated deterioration, prompting TransLink to invest in ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation efforts over the past decade. As a temporary measure, repairs to the bridge’s structure, including scour protection and updates to the swing span, are scheduled to begin in early **2026**.

Challenges with Aging Infrastructure

Despite these efforts, the wooden structure is now **115 years old**, far exceeding its original design lifespan of **60 years**. The bridge’s low clearances and inability to support semi-truck weights hinder its capacity to serve local agricultural businesses effectively. Additionally, the swing span’s mechanism can freeze in sub-zero temperatures, forcing marine traffic to undertake lengthy detours.

This past summer, TransLink sought proposals from design and engineering teams for a concept to replace the bridge. The authority received **nine proposals**, with a contract award expected before the end of **2025**. The selected team will collaborate with TransLink and the City of Delta to develop the concept design, conduct technical investigations, and engage with the public.

TransLink has allocated **$2 million** for the existing bridge’s rehabilitation in **2026** and **$3 million** for the planning process of the new crossing. However, there is currently no established timeline or cost estimate for the new bridge’s construction.

Historical Context and Future Developments

Before the construction of the Westham Island Bridge, a ferry operated in the area since the **1800s**, linking Westham Island to the mainland. The bridge has also appeared in various film and television productions over the years, adding to its historical significance.

In addition to the Westham Island Bridge, TransLink manages several other crossings, including the Knight Street Bridge, the Golden Ears Bridge, and the original Pattullo Bridge. The latter is set to be decommissioned in early **2026**, coinciding with the opening of its replacement to vehicle traffic, which will lead to significant operational savings for TransLink.

Furthermore, the provincial government, alongside the Vancouver Airport Authority, is exploring options to replace the aging Moray Bridge. This crucial bridge connects Richmond’s main island to Vancouver International Airport and plays a vital role in linking the region south of the Fraser River.

As TransLink moves forward with these essential projects, the focus remains on enhancing infrastructure to better serve the communities and businesses in the area, while addressing the challenges posed by aging structures.