[MG1]

I drive over that freaking bridge every day. Going west today was a little interesting.

I think I'm the only person obeying the 80km/hr limit. In the morning people are booting it up the hill. 100+ easy. I rarely see anyone pulled over.

Progress is slow but steady. Two more years of this shit, amiright?

[fliptuner]

Yeah, on Johnson Hill heading West, that 2 lanes on the freeway kicking out right and merging with traffic coming off 152 is.... interesting.

I just noticed all the construction vehicles parked on the new bridge deck too. You notice it when you're heading East and look to the right.

I remember working 500m from the Golden Ears during construction. I'd be doing 14hr shifts on a barge, a couple of times a week. I was right by their staging area on the water, just off 102B. It was pretty cool watching the progress but at least it didn't affect my commute or anything.

I'm glad I live in Coquitlam though. All the benefits of the Hwy 1 upgrades and no tolls unless I have to venture East.

[murd0c]

yep I take the 15wnd exit every morning and it was wicked this morning. hopefully it won't back up as bad now

[MG1]

I was heading westbound and hit the right hand bend at around 3:00 pm and didn't notice any cars merging from Surrey. At first I thought they had closed the bridge access from Surrey. Now that would be really cool. I can't wait to see 6+ lanes on each side of the freeway at that point.

My question. When all this is said and done, are they going to toll everybody, tourists included? I've only been across the Golden Ears when it was free. How do they charge non residents of BC?

[murd0c]

all I know I thought the government is unable to toll a #1 hwy?

[spyker]

My question. When all this is said and done, are they going to toll everybody, tourists included? I've only been across the Golden Ears when it was free. How do they charge non residents of BC?
The bridge has cameras set up to take pictures of your license plates,you will get the bill in the mail.

[murd0c]

I was heading westbound and hit the right hand bend at around 3:00 pm and didn't notice any cars merging from Surrey. At first I thought they had closed the bridge access from Surrey. Now that would be really cool. I can't wait to see 6+ lanes on each side of the freeway at that point.

My question. When all this is said and done, are they going to toll everybody, tourists included? I've only been across the Golden Ears when it was free. How do they charge non residents of BC?

for the golden ears bridge they said the tolls are only for BC Residents. All out of provience/country vehicles will not get charged. It will be the same for the Port Mann

[MindBomber]

WTF! So someone who commutes daily across the Port Man can avoid the tolls by having Alberta plates saving $500+ a year?

EDIT: I wish construction speed limits would be more strictly enforced, its difficult to follow them, because when you do people start road raging around you!

[misteranswer]

http://www.translink.ca/en/Driving/Golden-Ears-Bridge/About-Quickpass/FAQs.aspx

B2. Do out-of-province users also have to pay tolls?
Yes, all motorists pay the toll.

[murd0c]

I have a friend in Calgary and Washington and none of them had to pay a toll ever or have seen a bill. Translink only has access to information from BC plates so there for they can not charge out of province and country drivers. Sounds like to me they say that but don't really want anyone to know so people start doing that. My friend from washington is down here all the time and for the past 2 years he has never received a bill and he cross's the bridge a couple times a week.

Here's a fourm where I remember seeing the article saying how they can't charge tolls right now

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=487313&page=21

By Jeff Nagel - Aldergrove Star

Published: July 22, 2009 12:00 PM

Although tolls are now being charged on the new Golden Ears Bridge, some motorists will continue to cross it for free – perhaps indefinitely.

Vehicles with out-of-province plates won't be charged because TransLink doesn't have a system in place to obtain billing addresses for motorists from Washington State, Alberta and beyond.

To 70-year-old Surrey resident Ingeborg Kuehn, it doesn't seem fair.

"In California, you go through the toll bridges and you pay no matter where you come from," she said. "They have tolls and everybody pays. Why do just we have to pay?"

It's a serious issue for B.C. Trucking Association president Paul Landry.

His members with B.C.-plated trucks will pay close to $9 to cross the Golden Ears Bridge while competing rigs with Alberta or Saskatchewan plates – plenty of which are based here – scoot across for free.

"We think everybody should be paying their fair share," Landry said.

"If B.C.-plated carriers are required to pay, so should non-resident carriers."

He said some interprovincial carriers have large numbers of trucks that never leave B.C. yet have Alberta or Saskatchewan plates because the company is based out of province.

Those trucks include ones that "compete side-by-side" with local B.C.-registered trucks.

"One would pay the toll, while the other one wouldn't," he said.

"It might actually create an incentive for companies that are able to plate in other jurisdictions to do so."

After a month of free crossings, the tolls took effect on the new bridge on July 16.

The span has no toll booths, but rather sets of overhead cameras that capture licence plates.

Large numbers of bridge users – nearly 20,000 so far – have signed up to rent transponders for $1 per month so they'll be automatically detected as they drive over and get a reduced rate of $2.75 per crossing for regular vehicles.

Those who don't get a transponder but sign up and provide their credit card billing information pay $3.30.

Anyone else who simply uses the bridge is being charged $3.90 each way.

Those who ring up an unpaid bill of $25 or more will eventually be unable to renew their driver's licence or vehicle insurance until they pay up.

That's a simple way to enforce against B.C. motorists – because everyone here has to deal with ICBC – but it's not as easy to go after out-of-province drivers.

TransLink could pay a company to get billing information for cars and trucks with non-B.C. licence plate numbers that use the bridge.

But spokesman Ken Hardie said that may often cost more than the unpaid tolls that might be recovered, and any collection agency that's used would also get a cut of the proceeds.

It would be simpler if ICBC and other jurisdictions could simply swap information, but no such arrangements are in place.

However, Hardie said it will be possible to track out-of-province users and potentially go after those who ring up large toll bills.

"If you get a frequent flyer it becomes economically viable to pursue them," he said.

Motorists who deliberately try to register their vehicles outside B.C. to beat the tolls may end up with bigger problems than dodging bill collectors.

Someone primarily driving their car in B.C. but registering it in Alberta would run afoul of their insurer and TransLink may well blow the whistle on them using data gathered by the bridge cameras, Hardie said.

"They are essentially uninsured and that's against the law," he added.

In the case of heavy trucks, Hardie said TransLink may ask the province to require all trucks using the Golden Ears Bridge to carry a transponder.

He said the tolling system would automatically detect trucks that pass without a transponder and could then signal police, allowing enforcement either on the spot or later through a mechanism like photo radar.

"It's a measure that can be brought in if necessary," he said, adding it's not yet clear it will be a large enough problem.

TransLink didn't anticipate many out-of-province vehicles would use the Golden Ears Bridge, he said.

A better solution to the problem of out-of-province vehicles skirting bridge tolls may be needed when the new tolled Port Mann Bridge opens in 2013, he added.

[younglude]

lol pull over trucks that don't use a transponder.

trans link is amazingly skilled at spending tax payers money on things not everyone wants

[Soundy]

WTF! So someone who commutes daily across the Port Man can avoid the tolls by having Alberta plates saving $500+ a year?
Yes, and instead you can pay the $600 fine for improper or no insurance.

Construction speed limits are a joke, trying to follow them is impossible without getting tailgated and honked at.

YOU go work in a construction zone with idiots whizzing by three feet away, then come back and tell us how it's a joke.

Fuck you very much.

[MG1]

Time to get me one of those 007 James Bond rotating license plate holders, LOL.

[MG1]

I set my cruise control on 80 kmph. I'm so used to going that speed over that stretch. I don't get honked or anything. And if I did, I wouldn't give a shit. They can pay double the fines. Once I'm past 208th and a bit......... that's a different story.

[MG1]

As for non residents not paying, I'm not that upset. We drive across that bridge on a daily basis and we should pay for it. It's an improvement over what's there or was there. Visitors, shouldn't have to pay. They bring in enough to the economy by coming here. I guess I don't really care.

[MindBomber]

Yes, and instead you can pay the $600 fine for improper or no insurance.



YOU go work in a construction zone with idiots whizzing by three feet away, then come back and tell us how it's a joke.

Fuck you very much.

NO, thats not what I meant at all!! I worded that post poorly.

I work in construction zones, I hate the people that refuse to slow down despite the reduced speed limit, and I wish they would be enforced more heavily! I always drive the construction speed limit, whether it be on Highway 1 or on the sea to sky when it had construction speed limits.
I remember when I was going the construction speed limit on the sea to sky and people would literally start honking at me, because it was single lane and they were stuck going 50 because I was.

[RouRK]

all I know I thought the government is unable to toll a #1 hwy?

i thought the same thing

[Soundy]

all I know I thought the government is unable to toll a #1 hwy?

i thought the same thing

www.justfuckinggoogleit.com

How much is the toll on the Trans-Canada Highway?

A: I have travelled over every inch of the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) and the only toll locations I can think of are the Cobequid Pass in Nova Scotia and the Confederation Bridge which links New Brunswick with Prince Edward Island (PEI).

The passenger car toll for the Cobequid Pass is around $5.00. For the Confederation Bridge, there is no toll to go to PEI; it is only charged when leaving PEI. For passenger cars, the toll when leaving is around $50.00.

There is no toll to pass through Banff National Park, but there is a park fee if you intend to do anything other than drive straight through (which takes about an hour). I believe a short 'pit stop' is allowed, but check at the park gate for details.

There are other costs as one approaches the eastern and western extremities of the TCH, because it is necessary to travel by ferry to both the island of Newfoundland and Vancouver Island, where the two 'mile zero' markers of the TCH are located.

Neither extremety wanted to be at the 'end' of the TCH, so both Victoria, British Columbia, and St. John's, Newfoundland, have 'mile zero' markers indicating the beginning of the TCH. Officially, therefore, the TCH is 'endless.'


Read more: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_much_is_the_toll_on_the_Trans-Canada_Highway#ixzz189F13GSX

This make a good point: the TCH is already tolled in BC, if you count the cost of the Nanaimo/Horseshoe Bay ferry.

[MG1]

LOL at Confederation Bridge. It must be their attempt to increase population of Newfoundland. Seeing it as a 25 buck toll each way makes it sound better. Cheap Asians will find a way to somehow float their cars back to the mainland, LOL. Maybe the Newfies have ferry service for half price.

One of the things on my bucket list is to drive across Canada and that bridge.

[GabAlmighty]

Not looking forward to the toll I'll have to pay once it's all said and done...

Gonna add up on top of my gas bill woohoo. Wonder what the ticket is for "getting around" a toll bridge like that...

[MG1]

So, something reminded me about this thread..............


Construction is going pretty smoothly. I'm pretty surprised at the speed of progress. Nowhere near the speed of construction in places like Japan or China, but for this part of the world, it is good.

Tolls are a fact of life back east. I paid tolls on every stretch of the highway between Buffalo and New York and then up to Canadian border along the east coast. $4 is pretty cheap, IMHO.

[Gridlock]

The Port Mann/Goldenears toll is the highest that I could find in Canada for a bridge (other than confederation, which is unique) and any others that come close take you to a different country, not a suburb.

I don't mind a toll-but $8 bucks a trip is steep.

[MG1]

The Port Mann/Goldenears toll is the highest that I could find in Canada for a bridge (other than confederation, which is unique) and any others that come close take you to a different country, not a suburb.

I don't mind a toll-but $8 bucks a trip is steep.

It's more than just the bridge, isn't it? The whole Hwy 1 stretch that feeds onto the bridge (to and from).

Some say they will bypass it by going onto the Pattullo. Whatever, it's a cost we all have to share. I drive it daily, but I'm not complaining. It better be worth it though, as in, get me to and from work in no time flat, LOLOLOLOLOL.

Honestly, it has to be paid for, one way or another.

Maybe we should hold a rally or protest. Even better, riot!!!!!! :D

[mos_skeeto]

I remember when the project started they were thinking of twin-ing the bridge for 10 lanes. The bridge isn't very old I wonder why they decided to take it down. I heard a rumor that they can't toll a twin project but they can toll a new bridge.

[Gridlock]

Oh yeah, I'm a little bitter on the subject, but I'm a good little BC resident, and I'll take another increased cost and suck it up.

Definitely not going to go and camp over it.

[MG1]

I'd camp over it, if it were the middle of summer and there was eye candy all over the place......... since that ain't happening, I'm gonna suck it up, too.

Car pool, anyone?

[taylor192]

Tolls are a fact of life back east. I paid tolls on every stretch of the highway between Buffalo and New York and then up to Canadian border along the east coast. $4 is pretty cheap, IMHO.

Me too. I used to pay the 407 toll just to skip the 401 through Toronto, $12 each way. The bridge to the US near Ottawa had a $3 toll each way, and that bridge was a piece of crap.

[Indy]

This is taken off Port Mann / Highway 1 Project (http://www.pmh1project.com)


Will anyone be exempt from tolls?

Registered commercial trucks will receive an overnight discount of 50%, to help encourage them to travel outside of busy commuting times.
Registered HOVs will also receive a discount during peak commuting periods, as an added incentive to consider carpooling – reducing transportation impacts on the environment.
Special vehicles such as taxis, persons with disabilities, vanpools and transit vehicles will be exempt from tolls.


My question is how will they know if you are actually car pooling or if you just registered for that and "persons with disabilities" ie people with handicapped tags?

[taylor192]

This is taken off Port Mann / Highway 1 Project (http://www.pmh1project.com)

My question is how will they know if you are actually car pooling or if you just registered for that and "persons with disabilities" ie people with handicapped tags?

I bet they take the model of the Nexus Card. If you abuse it and are caught, you lose the privilege forever. That seems to stop most people.

[Brianrietta]

Me too. I used to pay the 407 toll just to skip the 401 through Toronto, $12 each way.

Same - I'm sure I've spent a few hundred dollars on the 407 over the years. Unless I was heading right downtown I avoided the 401 like the plague. I have no problems with toll highways when they're immaculately maintained (more of an issue back east during the winter) and save that much time.

[Mr.C]

I don't care about tolls, as long as it's well maintained. The private highways in Brazil that had tolls were always impeccable. And, oh, no police radar :)

[Gridlock]

Yeah, the elevated highway in Bangkok was pimp too.

[Lomac]

This is taken off Port Mann / Highway 1 Project (http://www.pmh1project.com)



My question is how will they know if you are actually car pooling or if you just registered for that and "persons with disabilities" ie people with handicapped tags?

The problem I actually have is with this bit:
Registered commercial trucks will receive an overnight discount of 50%, to help encourage them to travel outside of busy commuting times.

Most trucking companies operate during the day mainly because that's when stores they deliver to are open. The majority of distribution warehouses already schedule it so that they receive x-dock goods outside of rush hour periods. Encouraging them to send out deliveries at 3am isn't going to work when you have places like Staples, Future Shop and most other 9-9 stores closed at night. Hell, drive through any industrial/warehouse park in the Lower Mainland at 3 in the morning and tell me how many are even open and operating, much less loading trucks to go out that same night.

In theory it's a good idea; in actual practice, it's terrible.

Something I just thought of... if I already have a transponder for the Golden Ears Bridge, will it be compatible with the Port Mann, or will I be stuck having two god awful looking transponders on my windshield just so I can cross two different bridges?

As a side note, I wonder how much it would cost to get a taxi licence for my car... lol

[bloodmack]

time for a boat car :fullofwin:

[Lomac]

time for a boat car :fullofwin:

http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2007/07_02/topgear1KNP2006_468x330.jpg

Woot!

[Gridlock]

The problem I actually have is with this bit:


Most trucking companies operate during the day mainly because that's when stores they deliver to are open. The majority of distribution warehouses already schedule it so that they receive x-dock goods outside of rush hour periods. Encouraging them to send out deliveries at 3am isn't going to work when you have places like Staples, Future Shop and most other 9-9 stores closed at night. Hell, drive through any industrial/warehouse park in the Lower Mainland at 3 in the morning and tell me how many are even open and operating, much less loading trucks to go out that same night.

In theory it's a good idea; in actual practice, it's terrible.

Something I just thought of... if I already have a transponder for the Golden Ears Bridge, will it be compatible with the Port Mann, or will I be stuck having two god awful looking transponders on my windshield just so I can cross two different bridges?

As a side note, I wonder how much it would cost to get a taxi licence for my car... lol

The warehouse I worked at at very little activity at night. Some of the long haulers would come and get loads at night-it didn't matter to me as long as they had it in Toronto for the delivery time. I think very few containers on the inbound deliveries would come in at night.

I really don't see a 50% discount driving change in that regard for that many trucking companies. I don't see many truckers wanting to work at night, or dispatchers and support personnel wanting to be there at night to support the activity.

[Indy]

The problem I actually have is with this bit:


Most trucking companies operate during the day mainly because that's when stores they deliver to are open. The majority of distribution warehouses already schedule it so that they receive x-dock goods outside of rush hour periods. Encouraging them to send out deliveries at 3am isn't going to work when you have places like Staples, Future Shop and most other 9-9 stores closed at night. Hell, drive through any industrial/warehouse park in the Lower Mainland at 3 in the morning and tell me how many are even open and operating, much less loading trucks to go out that same night.

In theory it's a good idea; in actual practice, it's terrible.

Something I just thought of... if I already have a transponder for the Golden Ears Bridge, will it be compatible with the Port Mann, or will I be stuck having two god awful looking transponders on my windshield just so I can cross two different bridges?

As a side note, I wonder how much it would cost to get a taxi licence for my car... lol

Won't it be fun to work 9am - 9am 5 days a week? C'mon lol.

As far as transponders go, I read that they will be making it so one transponder will work for both bridges.

What does the transponder look like? Never seen one before. I assumed it was small and inconspicuous.

[Soundy]

http://buzzer.translink.ca/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/transponder2.jpg

It's about 2.5" x 3". Really not that big a deal.

[EvoFire]

The problem I actually have is with this bit:


Most trucking companies operate during the day mainly because that's when stores they deliver to are open. The majority of distribution warehouses already schedule it so that they receive x-dock goods outside of rush hour periods. Encouraging them to send out deliveries at 3am isn't going to work when you have places like Staples, Future Shop and most other 9-9 stores closed at night. Hell, drive through any industrial/warehouse park in the Lower Mainland at 3 in the morning and tell me how many are even open and operating, much less loading trucks to go out that same night.

In theory it's a good idea; in actual practice, it's terrible.

Something I just thought of... if I already have a transponder for the Golden Ears Bridge, will it be compatible with the Port Mann, or will I be stuck having two god awful looking transponders on my windshield just so I can cross two different bridges?

As a side note, I wonder how much it would cost to get a taxi licence for my car... lol

I think it depends. At my warehouse, well the warehouses in the general vicinity of where I work, a lot of them do unloading at night. It helps that most places have a night crew. Also some times even when we can't unload them, the truckers just sit outside and sleep till we do.

I also happen to know that warehouses to a few of the major chains do night time unloading, Safeway is one of them.

[Indy]

http://buzzer.translink.ca/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/transponder2.jpg

It's about 2.5" x 3". Really not that big a deal.

Thanks Soundy.

Why is it white? Thank God for Matte Black Vinyl :D

[Klutch]

I go all the way to 264st 5days a week, my average speed is always around ~110. Surprised how well all the traffic is adapting to the constant changes happening around there, not that many accidents.

[Soundy]

BTW, found this PDF showing the changes to the Cape Horn interchange... pretty cool.

http://www.pmh1project.com/inforoom/documents/CapeHorn_DiscGuide_final.pdf

[anti_rice]

The problem I actually have is with this bit:


Most trucking companies operate during the day mainly because that's when stores they deliver to are open. The majority of distribution warehouses already schedule it so that they receive x-dock goods outside of rush hour periods. Encouraging them to send out deliveries at 3am isn't going to work when you have places like Staples, Future Shop and most other 9-9 stores closed at night. Hell, drive through any industrial/warehouse park in the Lower Mainland at 3 in the morning and tell me how many are even open and operating, much less loading trucks to go out that same night.



Truckers don't care about the 50% discount they recieve. They just end up passing the cost to the consumer.

We also have a port and truckers use the hwy at night especially the ones who haul containers from the port to all across western Canada. The 50% off will benefit those commercial vehicles the most.

[MG1]

Wow, almost ended up in Surrey heading east on Hwy 1. They have a left off ramp to Guilford now. I wasn't paying attention to the signs till last minute, LOL. Today, saw so many confused drivers. Left lane was a crawl. Right lane is the key, for now. Save time and get over to the right lane before heading up the hill after the Port Mann.

And........ be careful. Lots of confused drivers - potential accidents.

[hotjoint]

There were 3 accidents because of the new left lane exit as of yesterday 3PM. I was listening to the radio on the way home. Some co workers told us about the new exit. They should put up signs or something to inform people.

[Gridlock]

There were 3 accidents because of the new left lane exit as of yesterday 3PM. I was listening to the radio on the way home. Some co workers told us about the new exit. They should put up signs or something to inform people.

Yeah, that just screams problem. So we've gone through and gotten rid of allthe old problems(good-bye Boundary Road on-ramp!) and put brand new ones in their place.

[MG1]

I've been going over that bridge for over 30 years now and old habits are tough to break. The signs are there, but who really looks when you've been doing the same shit for so long?

Anyway, I hope the accidents are only fender benders and not serious ones.


That pedestrian overpass with the cool lights that changes colour is nice. And, it's also nice to see Charlie's tree is still untouched.

http://knowbc.com/Knowbc-Blog/Famous-Trees-of-the-Lower-Mainland

[hotjoint]

I've been going over that bridge for over 30 years now and old habits are tough to break. The signs are there, but who really looks when you've been doing the same shit for so long?

Anyway, I hope the accidents are only fender benders and not serious ones.

Oh they do have signs? Co-workers told me that they had nothing indicating the change.

[melloman]

Wow, almost ended up in Surrey heading east on Hwy 1. They have a left off ramp to Guilford now. I wasn't paying attention to the signs till last minute, LOL. Today, saw so many confused drivers. Left lane was a crawl. Right lane is the key, for now. Save time and get over to the right lane before heading up the hill after the Port Mann.

And........ be careful. Lots of confused drivers - potential accidents.

Saw this on the news last night at dinner.. Global BC was commenting on how there was a traffic pattern change causing mass chaos for the drive home. :lawl:

[MG1]

Oh they do have signs? Co-workers told me that they had nothing indicating the change.

I'll have to check again tomorrow, but they're up high above.

The problem is, the signs are placed a bit too close to the actual exit. By the time you see them, it's too late. Again, I'll check it tomorrow........ anyone head home that way? Let us know where the signs are.

[melloman]

(good-bye Boundary Road on-ramp!) and put brand new ones in their place.

I hope they just knock that thing down and replace it with nothing. I can;t see HOW they can possibly make a long enough on-ramp for people to actually merge properly. Just re-route them to 1st Ave, (like they have been now for months) and call it quits please.

[MG1]

That on ramp, if done properly, can save a lot of time. Done properly....... have to emphasize that.

[Soundy]

Saw this on the news last night at dinner.. Global BC was commenting on how there was a traffic pattern change causing mass chaos for the drive home. :lawl:

I listen to a lot of NW and 1130 in the car, driving between sites during the day... traffic reports on both have been talking about the upcoming change for over a week now.

[Presto]

I'll have to check again tomorrow, but they're up high above.

The problem is, the signs are placed a bit too close to the actual exit. By the time you see them, it's too late. Again, I'll check it tomorrow........ anyone head home that way? Let us know where the signs are.

There are signs. It's just that they're kind of last minute, especially for all us drivers that are used to exiting on the right. Accidents happening because of that aren't too surprising. They didn't have any advance warning of that change, nor any lit sign to make people pay attention.

[murd0c]

It is kinda fun seeing the changes with the portman every day/week/month. At least it keeps my boring drive a take everyday more exciting.

[Soundy]

There are signs. It's just that they're kind of last minute, especially for all us drivers that are used to exiting on the right. Accidents happening because of that aren't too surprising. They didn't have any advance warning of that change, nor any lit sign to make people pay attention.

You shouldn't need a lit sign for that - you're supposed to be paying attention to the road and signage at all times. The fact that it's been an ever-changing construction zone for the past three years just makes NOT paying attention that much more inexcusable.

[MG1]

There are signs. It's just that they're kind of last minute, especially for all us drivers that are used to exiting on the right. Accidents happening because of that aren't too surprising. They didn't have any advance warning of that change, nor any lit sign to make people pay attention.

All they need is an image of a hot chick next to the sign and......... wait..... that might cause more accidents, LOL.

[Presto]

You shouldn't need a lit sign for that - you're supposed to be paying attention to the road and signage at all times. The fact that it's been an ever-changing construction zone for the past three years just makes NOT paying attention that much more inexcusable.

While it's true that it shouldn't be needed, you've failed to remember the driving ability of the lower mainland. It doesn't take a lot for traffic to become a complete clusterfuck. LM drivers need a handhold through those dangerously soft curves that their SUVs can't seem to navigate through, without flying in to the ditch. Any change in traffic patterns require a constant assault on senses to get that message through to all those people that only see the car in front of them, while they hug their steering wheel.

[RRxtar]

can one of you take some pics of the progress ?

[Soundy]

Check out the semi-live webcams: EarthCam Construction Camera - British Columbia Port Mann / Highway 1 Project (http://www.earthcam.com/clients/britishcolumbia/portmann/)

Lots of pics on the project site too:
Main Image Gallery (http://www.pmh1project.com/info-centre/image-gallery/Pages/default.aspx)

[fliptuner]

I listen to a lot of NW and 1130 in the car, driving between sites during the day... traffic reports on both have been talking about the upcoming change for over a week now.

Did you hear the warning yesterday? A bunch of people actually pulled over to the right and started backing up to try to get to the off-ramp.

Like seriously?!?! You're going to back up on the freeway and try to cross 3-4 lanes of traffic to exit? WTF? the 160 exit is so close too! :suspicious:

[GabAlmighty]

I went for a little tour through Surrey yesterday. Wasn't paying attention, too much expectancy. haha

[FRStan]

There's a sign above the left lane, but near the end of the bridge. Really confusing for me today as well
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[dangonay]

Maybe it's just me, but when I look over at the new bridge when crossing the Port Mann, it doesn't seem like its 10 lanes wide.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[Hondaracer]

^ me either, It doesn't look like it can fit 5 on each side in between the cables and te center pillar?

Also the fucking road crews who change the lanes at night do a fucking baddd job doing it sometimes especially late at night, there have been times when I'm driving back to surrey at 1am or later and there are sections closed off that give little or no warning then suddenly within 30 feet it just forces you into the other lane
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[MG1]

I just wonder how much height adjustment they have in the two major sections that are part of the two huge pillars. When the east pillar section went up, the deck was very high. Now it is pretty level with the old bridge. The west pillar section, at the moment, looks pretty high. However, it is in line with the other pillars. I guess the bridge is going to follow a different contour than the current bridge. The bridge platform looks wide enough. When you look at a construction vehicle parked on the deck, it looks totally puny. 10 lanes easy, I say.

It'd be cool if someone on RS with an on board cam upload some footage of a drive by.

[carisear]

i'm just glad i'm not a trucker anymore. i used to drive that route every day. twice a day. my stress level has gone waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay down ever since i stopped driving 8 hrs a day in the lower mainland.

[quasi]

i'm just glad i'm not a trucker anymore. i used to drive that route every day. twice a day. my stress level has gone waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay down ever since i stopped driving 8 hrs a day in the lower mainland.

Same boat. I used to drive so much in my job visiting 3-6 job sites a day all over the lower mainland. Now I work in an office that's a 10 minute drive from my front door, rarely leave unless it's for the odd site meeting and my stress level has gone way down.

For those who commute daily or drive a lot for work this new bridge and wider hwy should relieve some stress for them.

[syee]

Oh they do have signs? Co-workers told me that they had nothing indicating the change.

Yeah, I think they put up new signs after Monday's fiasco. I take the 152nd exit every morning going to work and I didn't see a single sign until I got off the Port Mann. Fortunately, my car pool passenger knew and told me to stay on the left lane. However for those that don't know, by the time you see the sign it is way too late.

Traffic was a clusterfuck yesterday morning after people realized the exit lane had switched sides. There is now a sign on the overpass shortly before you get on the Port Mann. It's not very obvious (I only saw it because I was actually looking for one today because I didn't see one yesterday)

I remember there being a similar issue when they moved the Cape Horn exit back a few hundred feet back in the summer?

[DC5-S]

The fucking bridge is closed tonight east bound WTF! I spent 20-30 mins sitting in traffic on number 1.. there were no signs or anything in PoCo.. had to detour all around to lougheed highway then enter freeway from entrance near braid station.. fucking bullshit

[DsZ24]

The fucking bridge is closed tonight east bound WTF! I spent 20-30 mins sitting in traffic on number 1.. there were no signs or anything in PoCo.. had to detour all around to lougheed highway then enter freeway from entrance near braid station.. fucking bullshit

There's signs on lougheed saying that the cape horn on ramp would be closed at night on certain days and they've been talking about lane closures along the hwy on the radio the last couple days.

[MG1]

So, the bridge is not closed. The entrance to the freeway is closed, yes? I saw a sign just before Sprott exit warning of Kensington Avenue being closed from XX to XX on one of those portable lightboards yesterday. Not sure if they had signs for other areas.

It pays to listen to AM 730. I hate a couple of the announcers, but it saves you a lot of time once in a while. There's this one woman who's a really dumb dipshit. Cannot pronounce street names properly. I think they hired her to make people laugh while stuck in heavy traffic - comic relief.

[DC5-S]

No the bridge WAS closed when I went after 12am.. All the traffic was diverted to the last exit before the bridge.. Fucking bullshit
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[MG1]

http://www.pmh1project.com/Construction%20BulletinsCCH/20111216%20Cape%20Horn%20Closures%20CB.pdf

[saucywoman]

Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[MG1]

It's nice to see the painted arrows on the lanes heading eastbound to address the Surrey off ramp issue. For daily commuters like me, it's old news, but for the people who cross once in a while, it combined with the signs above is good.

[MG1]

I guess we can't make fun of Chinese construction...........

On the way home today, I went by the Port Mann. I noticed a weird sight. The blue crane that carries the concrete sections along the new bridge as it progresses, looked a bit tilted. I was wondering why. The end that was tipped down didn't look right. It looked like the supports underneath were bent out of shape. Sure enough, when I get home wife asked me if I noticed something weird about the new bridge today. I told her yeah, the blue crane was looking all wrong. Watched the news just now and the crane had collapsed on one end and one of the sections of the bridge in now at the bottom of the river. LOLOLOLOLOL

Looks like someone screwed up royally. It's under investigation, but they don't know what went wrong.

Bridge Building Fail!

[dangonay]

^ Just saw that as well.

I'm wondering how the segment ended up in the river. Did they simply "release" it and purposely let it fall when the crane started to tile (like a quick-release coupling for emergencies)? Or did the operator "let off the brake" and let it fall pulling out cable as fast as it could?

I don't think it's that big of a deal. Sounds to me like they followed procedures and ended up with no injuries and no serious damage.

Port Mann Crane Pics (http://www.vancouversun.com/news/news/6133636/story.html?tab=PHOT)

[fliptuner]

Good to hear they're going to recover the slab. I just hope they already sent a diver down there to see how far it's sticking up and are directing vessels around it. I would suck if a heavily loaded barge went over it at low tide.

[Soundy]

Any section of water they're working over would be closed to marine traffic..

[dangonay]

Good to hear they're going to recover the slab. I just hope they already sent a diver down there to see how far it's sticking up and are directing vessels around it. I would suck if a heavily loaded barge went over it at low tide.
I hope "recover" means removing it and scrapping it. I'd hate to think they plan on reusing it for the bridge.

[Soundy]

I would imagine it would undergo intense inspection before they thought of re-using it. Unless it hit something on the way down, I wouldn't expect there'd be much damage... water certainly wouldn't hurt it.

[RRxtar]

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/5318330.bin?size=620x400s

really shows how much bigger the new bridge is than the old one. wow.

[MindBomber]

I would imagine it would undergo intense inspection before they thought of re-using it. Unless it hit something on the way down, I wouldn't expect there'd be much damage... water certainly wouldn't hurt it.

I would suspect it was probably at least moderately damaged by the initial impact with the river. When an object strikes water at speed surface tension becomes a powerful force.

[Soundy]

That would depend on the angle it hit - corner vs. flat surface impact = pike vs. belly flop.

[LIKEABOSS]

Does anyone know how long it will take for the tolls to make enough to pay for the project? A link would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. :D

[RRxtar]

i think things like bridge sections are considered quite fragile under any load in which they were not designed. and even in transport and install they are fragile. i think (from watching megabuilders hah) once the sections are in place, they are sinched together with cables and that is where they get their strength.

so regardless of how it fell, its integrity may be compromised.


i wish there was some video of it. that is a massive failure and must have been a hell of a sight.

[Soundy]

Wonder if the EarthCam cameras caught any of it? EarthCam Construction Camera - British Columbia Port Mann / Highway 1 Project (http://www.earthcam.com/clients/britishcolumbia/portmann/)

[Gridlock]

Does anyone know how long it will take for the tolls to make enough to pay for the project? A link would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. :D

40 years.

When I'm 74, I intend to drive my flying car across that bad boy like a boss.

[Everymans]

40 years.

When I'm 74, I intend to drive my flying car across that bad boy like a boss.

If they tolled the original bridge at that price they would be replacing it by the time it was fully paid for. It will be 50 years old by the time it will be taken apart. This city is plagued with poor road infrastructure from the 60's. I really hope the next big project is replacing the pattulo bridge. Then re designing the knight street bridge. The whole situation on the vancouver side is mental.

Here is my depiction of what it should be like. 9000 hours spent in ms paint+4000 hours spent playing sim city 4. Obviously I'm not an expert.
http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/8638/schematics.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/823/schematics.jpg/)

[MG1]

Just in case you haven't heard, the off ramp to 152nd, Surrey is now back to normal (right hand side) and will be this way from now on.

There's supposed to be lots of signs to indicate the change, but I go into autopilot mode when driving to work. Saw people using it and the traffic wasn't bad.

Anyway, for the first time ever, the laser warning on my 9500ix went off right at the toll camera area. I guess there's some kind of laser system being setup? Damn, not long before they finish the new bridge and start tolling.

Tolling, not :troll: lol.

[murd0c]

I'm so tempted to fail you for bringing that up to me first thing in the morning :(

FUCK:rukidding:

[MG1]

^now why would you fail a good friend..............

[murd0c]

That's the only reason why I didn't :D

[hotjoint]

Haha they changed it back? It felt weird exiting to the left :lol

[MG1]

Haha they changed it back? It felt weird exiting to the left :lol

..........like fapping with the other hand.

[hotjoint]

..........like fapping with the other hand.

hahahahaha you always crack me up MG1

[melloman]

Anyway, for the first time ever, the laser warning on my 9500ix went off right at the toll camera area. I guess there's some kind of laser system being setup? Damn, not long before they finish the new bridge and start tolling.

Laser jammer = no toll? :troll:

[GabAlmighty]

Laser jammer = no toll? :troll:

I'll prolly be getting one of these

FLIPAPLATE.COM License Plate Flippers (http://www.flipaplate.com/)

[Coren]

New bridge opens to 3 lanes of eastbound traffic on September 18

[striderblade]

Do we still have to pay to cross the unfinished bridge on the 18th or only pay when the bridge is fully complete. Kinda dumb to pay when is incomplete.

[fliptuner]

of course not

[Gridlock]

Do we still have to pay to cross the unfinished bridge on the 18th or only pay when the bridge is fully complete. Kinda dumb to pay when is incomplete.

I read that tolls start in dec or jan when the whole bridge is complete.

[TjAlmeida]

Anyone know when is a good time to cross the port man from coquitlam to 152 exit. I want to go tonight but dont want to sit in constant traffic.

[punkwax]

You should be fine by now..

[Soundy]

///////////News1130 BREAKING NEWS ALERT\\\\\\\\\\\

Sponsored by Destination Hyundai Destination Hyundai located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (http://www.destinationhyundai.com/)

_________________________________________________

Part of new Port Mann to open within two weeks

Three eastbound lanes on the new bridge will open to traffic on September 18th. The rest of the bridge will open in December, when tolling begins.

---------------------------------------------------------------
Tune into News1130 for the very latest on this story News1130 Web Radio Player (http://player.rogersradio.ca/ckwx/)

or visit news1130.com: News1130 - Vancouver Breaking News, Traffic, Weather, Sports, Money and Entertainment News, Local, Canada, World (http://www.news1130.com)

Listen to the News1130 Morning Show with Reaon Ford and Tammy Moyer weekdays 5:00am to 10:00am

[yray]

^ RS cruise across bridge?

[tee-tea]

Animation of Cape Horn Interchange
Animation of Cape Horn Interchange - YouTube

[Eff-1]

Registration is now open for transponder decals.

There is a special promo. Register your car before November 30 and receive a $30 credit on your account!!

https://www.treo.ca/

[falcon]

If they grandfather the $75/mo fee indefinatley that's actually not that bad if you use the bridge everyday and it is worth it if you can cut 20mins off your daily commute. In my opinion...

[fliptuner]

Some advantages of registering before Nov. 30

Everyone here should go to TReO (http://www.treo.ca) and register their vehicles for tolling before February 28, 2013. All drivers will get a low introductory toll of $1.50 a crossing until February 28, 2013 but will go up to $3.00 a crossing afterwards, but registered vehicles will have the toll locked in until December 1, 2013. Also, by registering, you will have a $30 credit so your first 20 crossings will be free (or less, if you don't use all your credits by December 2013).

Motorcycles will cross at $1 a crossing with the introductory rate and $1.50 with the normal rate.

For contractors, consultants, etc. who need to use the bridge often, they can get an unlimited crossings for $75/mo introductory, $150/mo afterwards. Motorcycles are $50/mo introductory, $75/mo afterwards.

[murd0c]

I'm not happy about the tolls but if it's only $1.50 a day for the first year I'm more then happy to pay that so I don't have to wait in traffic everyday.

[Hondaracer]

Just registered, nice that it's just a decal and not the transponder like golden ears
Posted via RS Mobile

[Phozy]

Hm...so can we still use the old bridge without paying? Or is it closed?

Also, why do they have to demolish it...

Lastly, do they use cameras to track if you crossed the highway?

[Soundy]

Hm...so can we still use the old bridge without paying? Or is it closed?

Also, why do they have to demolish it...

Lastly, do they use cameras to track if you crossed the highway?

The eastbound lanes of the new bridge will open in about a week, and the bridge should be fully open in December.

One of the original plans was to twin the existing bridge, but because of the old bridge's age, maintenance costs are rising rapidly. Keeping it would mean ongoing maintenance costs... plus if you look at the construction of the new span, two of the westbound lanes have to go right where the old bridge is now - the old one will need to be torn down before those final lanes on the new one can be completed.

And yes, they use cameras to capture your plate so they can send you a bill. Same as with the Golden Ears: About Electronic Tolling (http://www.translink.ca/en/Driving/Golden-Ears-Bridge/About-Electronic-Tolling.aspx)

Noob. :noob:

[GabAlmighty]

If one were to say... Remove their front plate and put the tailgate down on their truck, think the cameras would catch it? Juding by what I see from the cameras I don't think so...

[Hondaracer]

ive heard that if you drive in the middle of the lane on the goldenears the cameras cannot catch the plate

[Soundy]

ive heard that if you drive in the middle of the lane on the goldenears the cameras cannot catch the plate

Seems to me each camera covers just about a full lane to either side of the lane it's aimed at. No chance of avoiding it that way.

Edit: see the photos here: http://buzzer.translink.ca/index.php/2009/11/behind-the-scenes-at-quickpass-the-golden-ears-bridge-tolling-centre/

http://buzzer.translink.ca/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/img_5588.jpg

http://buzzer.translink.ca/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/img_5599.jpg

There is no escaping the cameras by splitting lanes.

[Iceman-19]

I was on the news today! There was a press conference on the bridge today announcing the fact it's in the guineas book of records for being the worlds widest bridge, and the toll stuff. Then they gave us a BBQ. Vera's catered it. I made a clip in the story. IM SO FAMOUS! (yes I work for kiewit).
Posted via RS Mobile

[Domani]

Hey iceman is the 156 hov on ramp opening anytime soon or we have to wait until dec?

[Gridlock]

Drove the #1 yesterday, and I have to say it looked pretty damned impressive. I'm surprised they are opening part of it early, as its going to isolate their work site with traffic. Guess they have a plan.

[Soundy]

Drove the #1 yesterday, and I have to say it looked pretty damned impressive. I'm surprised they are opening part of it early, as its going to isolate their work site with traffic. Guess they have a plan.

Not surprising at all - the whole construction project has been like this, especially through the Coquitlam/Burnaby section: build some of the new, move traffic on direction to that, rip up the old, build more new, move the rest of the traffic over, rip up the rest of the old, build the rest of the new...

There's still a lot to do in that section with the new Cape Horn ramps, one of which comes down into the left lanes of the eastbound side, so they'll need to route eastbound traffic around that.

[forthewinwin]

They don't like people driving. I swear.

[hchang]

So does Translink send a paper statement to out of province/state travelers as well? Or are they not able to access any personal information outside of BC.

Also, about two months ago (when the tolling system was just put into place on Port Mann) my GoldenEars Quickpass transponder beeped. Wonder if the system was just being tested or if I was actually charged...

[blkgsr]

new eastbound opens tomorrow right? should be a fun commute in the morning with everyone trying to figure it out and rubber necking

[GabAlmighty]

new eastbound opens tomorrow right? should be a fun commute in the morning with everyone trying to figure it out and rubber necking

So they say...

[GG]

just in case anyone is wondering and felt like paying for this gay ass toll is a joke


get automatic hide away license plate tray, before u cross the bridge, hide your front and rear license plate


:ahwow: wooot

the chance of busting by the cops? pfff the bridge is 1-2 km long, unless u are really unlucky meh... chance is like 20%

[MG1]

Went over it this morning at around 6:15 am. One word, awesome. There were no problems and transition was seamless. Didn't even know until you see the white cables, LOL.

[murd0c]

I'm actually excited to go over the way home since I have been watching it being built for the past 3 years

[Iceman-19]

Feels weird to know that yesterday was the last time you would cross the old bridge into surrey eh?
Posted via RS Mobile

[Hondaracer]

I crossed last night at midnight, it was one lane east bound on the old side, I took it in and the view of the new one
Posted via RS Mobile

[murd0c]

Feels weird to know that yesterday was the last time you would cross the old bridge into surrey eh?
Posted via RS Mobile

I was thinking that exact same thing yesterday as I drove over it for the last time. It's being odd and weird but exciting no matter how corny it sounds.

I'm simple and easy things excite me what can I say :)

[Armind]

Gonna take a detour just to drive on it on the way home later. :D

[MG1]

I was thinking that exact same thing yesterday as I drove over it for the last time. It's being odd and weird but exciting no matter how corny it sounds.

I'm simple and easy things excite me what can I say :)

It's the simple things in life that are precious. I still get excited....... keeps one young at heart.

[jlenko]

Good riddance to the old hunk of shit. It's been horrible since they put the HOV lane in and narrowed all the lanes. Couldn't ever get rid of those holes down the middle... just like all the potholes in the whole Lower Mainland that no one seems to be able to permanently fix.

Drove the new bridge home today. Nice and smooth, for now.

[TOS'd]

Thanks to Inaii and Bloodmack for the song suggestion.

The New Port Mann Bridge - YouTube

[eurochevy]

give it 5 years and people will probably start complaining saying they should have made the bridge wider or kept the old bridge and new bridge , use one one way and the other the other way

[ApePee2]

^ lol very good music indeed.
Posted via RS Mobile

[mb_]

^perfect song, LOL

http://i.imgur.com/BXR0e.jpg

I agree with MG1, seamless transition.

[zx7rrrr]

Im heading out now with the motorcycle.hopefully.theres cops there.
I wanna be the first to get caught speeding on the bridge. Ill try to catch it on my.go pro
Posted via RS Mobile

[murd0c]

Took this one on the way home today

http://imageshack.us/a/img140/7687/31030410151033217230741.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/140/31030410151033217230741.jpg/)

[GLOW]

Thanks to Inaii and Bloodmack for the song suggestion.

The New Port Mann Bridge - YouTube (http://youtu.be/QD9v42LN7HY)

everytime i heard the part "highway to the danger zone" i was thinking:

vtec is gonna kick in :fullofwin:

[melloman]

Port Mann / Highway 1 Improvement Project (http://www.pmh1project.com/Pages/default.aspx)

Surprised I haven't read this posted anywhere.. gives you up-to-date information on the project and how traffic is being diverted and expected closures.

I was watching CTV last night and heard Highway 1 Eastbound Exit 44 FULL CLOSURE happening ALL this weekend due to the new on ramp being constructed.

Source for closures aswell: http://www.pmh1project.com/Traffic%20Schedules/COMM%20-%20sch%20-%20Traffic%20Schedule%20-%20September%2012%20-%2023%20-%2020120912.pdf

[friend_steve]

I'm so happy we finally got to open the port Mann bridge at 4am the other day!
Cameras were there recording the bridge opening. The 1st car going across was a dark color Audi which was tail gating a crash truck roughly 1 meter behind going 90km/h...
We had to paint the lines going eastbound twice in 2 days 'cause of the asphalt trucks.
The cats eyes reflectors look so nice. It's a shame most will pop off when the plow comes when it snows.
Posted via RS Mobile

[Gridlock]

give it 5 years and people will probably start complaining saying they should have made the bridge wider or kept the old bridge and new bridge , use one one way and the other the other way

I was thinking the same thing...orig. bridge is 3 one way, 2 the other...new is 4 and 4 with one each way that doesn't connect with the #1(if I remember correctly.

Seems like a lot of money to gain 3 lanes of highway traffic and 2 more local lanes when we could have had the same 10 lanes for a much smaller bridge, or even have a 7 lane bridge, still for less money and have even more capacity.

[Soundy]

I was thinking the same thing...orig. bridge is 3 one way, 2 the other...new is 4 and 4 with one each way that doesn't connect with the #1(if I remember correctly.

Seems like a lot of money to gain 3 lanes of highway traffic and 2 more local lanes when we could have had the same 10 lanes for a much smaller bridge, or even have a 7 lane bridge, still for less money and have even more capacity.

Math fail.

A new, 10-lane bridge with a capacity of five lanes of traffic in each direction (including one HOV lane) and the ability to accommodate light rail rapid transit in the future. The bridge will include a three metre wide multi-use path for pedestrians and cyclists. Once the new bridge is built, the existing five-lane crossing will be removed.
Project Overview (http://www.pmh1project.com/about-the-project/project-overview/Pages/default.aspx)

[orgasm_donor]

I would LOVE to check out this new bridge! But that would mean I'd have to go to Surrey. :heckno:

[quasi]

I would LOVE to check out this new bridge! But that would mean I'd have to go to Surrey. :heckno:

It actually doesn't, just keep driving let us know when you hit Toronto.

[LsquareD]

Port Mann Bridge Toll - $30 free credit

https://www.treo.ca/tolls-and-fees/how-do-i-save-money/what-are-the-current-promotions/

[Gridlock]

Math fail.


Project Overview (http://www.pmh1project.com/about-the-project/project-overview/Pages/default.aspx)

Yaya, 10 lanes right? As I said, I wasn't sure if it was still in the plans, but I understood there was going to be 1 lane in each direction that was part of the bridge, but not part of the highway, as in local coquitlam traffic to Surrey and vice versa.

I could totally be wrong...hell, at one point the plan WAS to twin it.

[falcon]

A local only lane would have been awesome. But doubt that's happening based on the photos if the finished lanes. The one lane that's blocked off is the bus lane.

[Soundy]

The initial idea was to twin the old bridge, but as I said, it was determined that the ongoing maintenance costs for the old span would be greater over the life of it, than simply replacing it with a whole new structure.

[Mr.HappySilp]

Port Mann Bridge toll accounts breached
The company responsible for managing the Port Mann Bridge is issuing letters to 271 people whose toll accounts have been flagged for attention because they may have been viewed by an unauthorized employee.

“There is no evidence that personal information has been compromised,” Mike Proudfoot, chief executive officer for Transportation Investment Corp., said Sunday.

The accounts were accessed by a person at the Coquitlam call centre who did not have the required authorization.

“He was immediately fired and the matter turned over to the RCMP,'” said Proudfoot.

The 271 affected accounts were created or updated over the telephone by a single customer service representative. The integrity of the electronic tolling system was never at risk and accounts created online were not affected.

Proudfoot said TI Corp employees go through screenings and criminal background checks.

“This individual is not who he claimed to be when he was hired,” Proudfoot said.
24 Hours Vancouver (http://vancouver.24hrs.ca/News/local/2012/09/30/20246751-24hvan.html)

LOL

[melloman]

^^ :lawl: :lawl: Phone hacking :troll:

[Soundy]

Port Mann Bridge opening Dec 1st
VANCOUVER/CKNW AM980
Gord Macdonald | Email news tips to gmacdonald@cknw.com
11/13/2012

The Provincial Government has announced the new Port Mann bridge will open to eight lanes of traffic on Saturday, December 1st and tolling will commence after one free week, on Saturday, December 8th.
The Ministry of Transportation says the transition to the 8-lane bridge opening will happen gradually with Highway 1 westbound traffic shifted onto the new bridge overnight on Saturday, November 17th.
Westbound traffic will remain in a two-lane configuration until December 1st, as crews complete widening and improvements through the Cape Horn interchange, at the north end of the bridge.
December 1st will also mark the completion of interchange improvements and highway widening east of the Port Mann bridge construction, including more than 20 kilometres new HOV lanes extending to Langley.

Local News Story - CKNW AM 980: News. Talk. Sports. (http://www.cknw.com/news/vancouver/story.aspx?ID=1817154)

[Volvo-brickster]

^^^

with tolling starting, has anyone gotten their Treo stickers yet ?

[Hondaracer]

Got mine last week, driving a truck it goes under my mirror on the inside, dunno if it's different for cars
Posted via RS Mobile

[syee]

I stuck it a couple of inches below the mirror stem as they had suggested. It kinda looks weird though now that there's a white strip stuck right in the middle of the window.

[MG1]

Got one for both of my vehicles about a month ago. Hasn't arrived in the mail yet. Wife got hers before I did, damn it. She just went to the Treo building off Hwy 1 and got it right away.

By the sounds of it, I have to either move the dash cam or put the sticker a little off to the side or below the dash cam.

[Ride]

I hear anywhere on the windshield u put the sticker it's gonna work

[stereo12]

got 1 for my car and for my bike today.

but i hate sticking shit in my car ANYWHERE. :failed:

[BlackV62K2]

Noob question. I own two cars, if I register them both under one account, do I only get $30 credit in total for both cars?

Inb4, why dont you call and ask. I would but they are closed now. Also checked the site and couldn't find info on it.

[RRxtar]

Totally sucks you guys have to put a little sticker in your window. What an inconvenience. You should write a letter requesting they build toll booths instead!

[GabAlmighty]

Quick question but am I being billed based on the sticker on the windshield or by my licence plate?

What I mean to say is, let's say someone were to put a licence plate flipper on their vehicle yet they still retained the windshield sticker. Would said person still be charged? Furthermore, if I don't put my sticker on but use the bridge am I still entitled the low introductory rates for pre registering?

[Soundy]

Quick question but am I being billed based on the sticker on the windshield or by my licence plate?

What I mean to say is, let's say someone were to put a licence plate flipper on their vehicle yet they still retained the windshield sticker. Would said person still be charged?
Yes.

I know with the GEB transponder, they do have a photo of the plate as well, so for example, if you're using someone else's transponder, they'll still know who actually owns the car, in case the proper owner complains about the incorrect billing. I think they do randomly check some to make sure they match up properly, too.

We had to change plates on the Jeep but kept the same transponder and never changed the plate listed on our account... we still get billed the transponder rate and haven't got any bills based on the new plate.

Furthermore, if I don't put my sticker on but use the bridge am I still entitled the low introductory rates for pre registering?
No.... I believe that's covered on the website.

"....you will only be eligible for discounts on the Port Mann Bridge if you have a TReO account. And this includes enjoying the low introductory toll rate until December 1, 2013"

[tiger_handheld]

I still have not received my sticker but my dad has. Should I be concerned?
Treo CSR said decals are still being mailed out =\
bridge opens in 3 weeks..

[murd0c]

I put my sticker on while driving cause I'm an idiot and I fucked up and now it's a bit crooked dammit:okay:

[Presto]

Old Port Mann Bridge shutting down TONIGHT!

Old Port Mann Bridge closes tonight - News1130 (http://www.news1130.com/news/local/article/422736--old-port-mann-bridge-closes-tonight)
The old bridge is being shut down ahead of schedule because of stormy weather in the weekend forecast. Two westbound lanes will be open along the new bridge until the official opening Dec. 1st.

[mb_]

Hope tomorrow won't be a huge clusterfuck lol

[jlenko]

I put my sticker on while driving cause I'm an idiot and I fucked up and now it's a bit crooked dammit:okay:

What ever happened to paying attention while driving? :failed:

[murd0c]

What ever happened to paying attention while driving? :failed:

When I'm standing still in rush hour there's not much to pay attention too. I have road star with not a single ticket or accident. How about you?

[jlenko]

No accidents or tickets here either guy. And my sticker's on straight. BTW.. I don't stand still in rush hour traffic either.. I take back roads so I actually enjoy the drive. Want to continue to measure penis size? Or...

Now.. back to on topic?

[murd0c]

I dunno but it sounds like you need a cookie or a hug

[fliptuner]

what time are they switching?

[murd0c]

I'm kinda disappointed they announced it so last minute. I would of taken more in when I drove to work this morning rather then staring straight and shaking my head at the idiots that were cutting in front of me.

[JesseBlue]

I dunno but it sounds like you need a cookie or a hug
:gayfight:...hihihihi

[JesseBlue]

i'm hoping patullo doesnt get over bearing when the tolling starts...

[Soundy]

I'm kinda disappointed they announced it so last minute.

"The old bridge is being shut down ahead of schedule because of stormy weather in the weekend forecast."

[Soundy]

i'm hoping patullo doesnt get over bearing when the tolling starts...
I hope it does - it'll help weed out the idiots.

[GabAlmighty]

Damn, woulda taken some time out of my day to enjoy the old bridge for the last time...

[murd0c]

The new Port Mann west bound. It was so weird seeing the empty bridge on the right

http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/1756/newportmann.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/39/newportmann.jpg/)

[Gridlock]

i'm hoping patullo doesnt get over bearing when the tolling starts...

New West is screwed. Wait for it.

[hotjoint]

The new Port Mann west bound. It was so weird seeing the empty bridge on the right

http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/1756/newportmann.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/39/newportmann.jpg/)

Yeah I went over the new west bound side on Saturday night. Felt weird seeing the right side like that.

[melloman]

New West is screwed. Wait for it.

New West city committee actually wanted the Patullo to be permanently closed.. They said it's "bad enough" with the congestion they get from Surrey to begin with. :lawl:

[OTG-ZR2]

New West is screwed. Wait for it.

New West is already screwed. I can't stand commuting through that city. I think they have the worst infrastructure plan in all of the lower mainland.

[Presto]

^^^
Thanks, I'm having flashbacks of my 60-90min commute between Coquitlam and Richmond. God, New West is horrible.

[murd0c]

as long as I don't have to wait in rush hour on the number 1 like I do about now. I don't really care about New West problems:awwyeah:

[blkgsr]

^^^
Thanks, I'm having flashbacks of my 60-90min commute between Coquitlam and Richmond. God, New West is horrible.

i had the same commute for jsut about a year...terrible


looked like the west bound traffic over the bridge was moving much better this morning around 6:45

i'm hoping my drive home back to coquitlam around 4 is better with the extra lane....it is 3 now right? now just two like the old bridge?

[MG1]

I can always take the scenic route via Mission Bridge and travel along the Lougheed. Adds about 15 minutes to my commute. Bad thing is, I'll be stopping often (Costco, Wal Mart, Michael's, McD's, etc.).

Like murd0c mentioned, saving time is worth it. Plus, who cares about New West, LOLOLOL. The Pattullo can be known as the cheap ass drivers' bridge.

I guess I'll be crossing the Port Mann westbound today in the next little while. Hopefully the usual congestion will be a thing of the past......... somehow, I doubt it.

[wreck]

so how many lanes will the new port mann be (both directions) and how many lanes will the #1 be from say 200th to first ave exit?

[murd0c]

so how many lanes will the new port mann be (both directions) and how many lanes will the #1 be from say 200th to first ave exit?

5 each way I believe. On the bridge for sure 5 but it might go down to 4 lanes.

[wreck]

5 each way I believe. On the bridge for sure 5 but it might go down to 4 lanes.

that's what i figured, but there are points on the highway where it looks like they are finished and there are only 4 lanes..

[Lomac]

that's what i figured, but there are points on the highway where it looks like they are finished and there are only 4 lanes..

It's going to be a ten lane bridge. Portions aren't done, especially going West, where they can't complete it until parts of the old bridge are dismantled.

Edit: Misread the original question. Yes, most of the highway expansion should only be 4 lanes wide.

[melloman]

IIRC... #1 full expansion should take 4 lanes each way from 200th St. to Grandview Hwy.

[Hondaracer]

New West is already screwed. I can't stand commuting through that city. I think they have the worst infrastructure plan in all of the lower mainland.

almost all of our job sites are in Surrey, i can get almost anywhere in surrey in 30-45 minutes

sometimes it takes almost half an hour to get from patullo to queensborough :/

[dL]

If anyone wants an extra free trip simply login to your account and apply the promo code REGEB1 on the right side of the page. You can also apply this code when you sign up a new account as well.

dL

[EuterVanWasser]

New West is already screwed. I can't stand commuting through that city. I think they have the worst infrastructure plan in all of the lower mainland.

North Delta would have to be a close second. Their whole philosophy is bury their heads in the sand with 2 lane roads and hope that the population growth in Surrey somehow reverses course.

72nd & 64th ave are :failed:

[Soundy]

BTW, in case you missed it:

November 19, 2012 - Permanent Change to Highway 1 Westbound Off-Ramp to Brunette Avenue

Starting this week (weather dependent), the Highway 1 westbound off-ramp to Brunette Avenue southbound will be shifted approximately 500 metres east and a single exit point for drivers wishing to travel either northbound or southbound will be implemented. This single exit point is part of the reconfigured Brunette Avenue Interchange and is a permanent change.

Electronic message boards will be placed on Highway 1 westbound to alert motorists of this traffic pattern change. Motorists are reminded to exercise caution at all times and to obey posted construction speeds.

Basically, if you're getting off at Brunette from Hwy. 1 westbound AT ALL, make sure you're all the way to the right once you go under the King Edward overpass... otherwise you'll be turning around at Gaglardi.

[fliptuner]

Edit, my bad.

[Soundy]

Shitty thing is, now if you're coming from Braid, towards Coquitlam, there's going to be another stop light, to wait for Southbound traffic to cross.
I don't think traffic on Brunette itself is changing, or on the interchange... just the exit. As far as I could tell watching the construction, it looks like both ramps will go the same way they did before, there will just be the one exit 'way back by the overpass, that then feeds them both. The old way, traffic for the southbound ramp backs up onto the freeway... this should get rid of that.

[Soundy]

This explains it better:

http://easycaptures.com/fs/uploaded/725/8241222260.jpg (http://easycaptures.com/8241222260)
View Screen Capture (http://easycaptures.com/8241222260)

[fliptuner]

Got it, thanks.

It sounded like they were going to make it like the Willingdon ramp, which would suck since there's so much truck traffic on Brunette. This way is as is, just a longer onramp, to keep exiting trucks off the freeway.

[Soundy]

I don't think the Willingdon changes are permanent - they're obviously rebuilding the old part of the overpass, I would expect the ramps will all go back to the way they used to be, or something similar, once it's all done.

[Presto]

If anyone wants an extra free trip simply login to your account and apply the promo code REGEB1 on the right side of the page. You can also apply this code when you sign up a new account as well.

dL

Reposting this tip from dL, in case anyone missed it! Thank him, not me!

[Graeme S]

Why not both?

[Oleophobic]

Serious question, do you guys pronounce 'decal' as dee-cal or dec-al? I was surprised to hear it pronounced the way it was in the videos on the Treo site.

[DC5-S]

Dickal
Posted via RS Mobile

[fliptuner]

Deck-ul

[Gridlock]

so how many lanes will the new port mann be (both directions) and how many lanes will the #1 be from say 200th to first ave exit?

I was seeing 2 lanes plus hov westbound leading up to the surrey exits, which pissed me off, so I hope someone has a different count. The new overpasses were right next to the highway, with markings so I don't know how there could be more.

Buuuut...if that's the case, then traffic is still going to line up to get onto the bridge. The surrey on ramps don't merge into them anymore though.

[wreck]

I was seeing 2 lanes plus hov westbound leading up to the surrey exits, which pissed me off, so I hope someone has a different count. The new overpasses were right next to the highway, with markings so I don't know how there could be more.

Buuuut...if that's the case, then traffic is still going to line up to get onto the bridge. The surrey on ramps don't merge into them anymore though.

That's what I noticed too.
Posted via RS Mobile

[Gumby]

Serious question, do you guys pronounce 'decal' as dee-cal or dec-al? I was surprised to hear it pronounced the way it was in the videos on the Treo site.
I say dee-cal... (although I think both are acceptable)

[Soundy]

I was seeing 2 lanes plus hov westbound leading up to the surrey exits, which pissed me off, so I hope someone has a different count. The new overpasses were right next to the highway, with markings so I don't know how there could be more.

Buuuut...if that's the case, then traffic is still going to line up to get onto the bridge. The surrey on ramps don't merge into them anymore though.

The five lanes (each way) are not all one wide road. I'm not ENTIRELY clear on the final configuration, but as I understand it, there will be something like "express lanes" that connect straight through from the bridge to 200th, and lanes that only enter/exit the bridge for the Cape Horn Interchange... so for example, if you're going from Langley to Coquitlam, you'd have dedicated lanes instead of mixing in all the traffic continuing on into Burnaby/Vancouver.

Like I say, I'm not 100% clear on the actual design, but that's the general idea. If you look at the project drawings, for example... it looks like you have four westbound lanes (one HOV, three regular) approaching 152nd... the far right lane splits off and goes around the 152 ramp; the 152 ramp is two lanes that split out, where the right one joins the "separated" far right lane and the left one merges into the other three main lanes. The two right-most lanes are separated from the other three by a barricade, and if memory serves, those split off at the Cape Horn Interchange... so if you're exiting at Cape Horn, you have to get into those lanes BEFORE getting on the bridge. Which, I think, will prove to be brilliant so you don't get those asswipes trying to cut over to the exit at the last second coming off the bridge.

And again, that's just my take based on bits I've read, the drawings I've seen, and how everything appears to be coming together. You can see project plans for the Surrey side here: Project Designs (http://www.pmh1project.com/in-your-community/surrey/Pages/Project-Designs.aspx) - they actually have a lot of detail in the PDFs so you can zoom WAY in.

All the info is out there though - instead of getting worked up over what you THINK will be happening based on construction that's not even finished yet... just look it up!

[inv4zn]

Got my decal a few days ago...can I put it on side of the window? Doesn't make sense to me that it wouldn't, but thought I'd ask anyway.

I ask because my dashcam is in the middle of the windshield...

http://i.imgur.com/83wwn.jpg

[blkgsr]

my commute home this past week has been absolute shit with the new bridge....not sure if everyone is just rubber necking the whols time or what but it's been backed up everyday

hurry the fuck up Elis Don and open the whole bridge

[inv4zn]

The bridge is fine, it's the interchanges/highways on either side of the bridge that's fucking things up.

Manager came to work very upset, told me traffic was fucked from 152nd all the way to willingdon.

[mb_]

^Yup once I get on the bridge (coming from Surrey) it's usually fine until I have to get off at Willingdon but not always lol

[MG1]

I hate the way things are right now. They need to put something down on the roads...... like lines or reflectors?

Eastbound early in the morning before the Port Mann is horrible. The lanes shift and you can barely see the lines when it is dark and wet. Old lines show up better than the new lines.

Then there's a huge ass series of pot holes between the Skytrain overpass and Brunette exit. I stay in the slow lane to avoid it.

Westbound in late afternoon/early evening is an absolute nightmare. If any of you want a short cut, take the 160th street exit. It starts way earlier than it used to, so you can bypass a shitload of traffic. Take exit towards the subdivision north of the freeway, then go back on freeway. The on ramp is rather long and you bypass another shitload of traffic. Don't merge early like all the noobs. I save minimum of 10 minutes and as much as 20 minutes (depending on backup). The westbound traffic starts to pile up at around 3:00 pm. Before then, no problem.

And what's up with 232nd exit? That place is like the Bermuda Triangle of the Fraser Valley. Accidents galore and shitty cell phone reception. They should call the exchange exit 666.

[Gridlock]

And what's up with 232nd exit? That place is like the Burmuda Triangle of the Fraser Valley. Accidents galore and shitty cell phone reception. They should call the exchange exit 666.

232 has always been weird. I used to live in Abby and work in Fort Langley and some afternoons the section just past the on ramp eastbound was bumper to bumper, then get up over the hill and...nothing. Everyone motors off at 120 and continues on.

[MindBomber]

And what's up with 232nd exit? That place is like the Burmuda Triangle of the Fraser Valley. Accidents galore and shitty cell phone reception. They should call the exchange exit 666.

That's so true. Accidents occur more frequently there than the entire balance of the stretch of the number one running through the Fraser Valley combined. Last night, there were accidents going Eastbound and Westbound at 232 at the same time.

The intersections there are terrible, it would be great if they were replaced with roundabouts like McCallum and Clearbrook.

[Traum]

Just saw this on News 1130:

Province, planners put positive spin on Port Mann concerns - News1130 (http://www.news1130.com/news/local/article/425963--province-planners-put-positive-spin-on-port-mann-concerns)

When James asked why the free tolls you get for signing up by the end of November run out in May, neither the transportation minister nor TI Corp/TReO gave him a reason why; they simply told him the promotion is meant to encourage people to register and to keep costs low.
Basically that means the $30 credit you got for signing up expires in May? :badpokerface:

[pingu81]

Got my decal a few days ago...can I put it on side of the window? Doesn't make sense to me that it wouldn't, but thought I'd ask anyway.

I ask because my dashcam is in the middle of the windshield...

Yes, you may.

[Graeme S]

Just saw this on News 1130:

Province, planners put positive spin on Port Mann concerns - News1130 (http://www.news1130.com/news/local/article/425963--province-planners-put-positive-spin-on-port-mann-concerns)


Basically that means the $30 credit you got for signing up expires in May? :badpokerface:
Makes sense. Encourages people to fall into the habit of using the bridge, which means that people (once they use their credits) will start spending their own money.

Part of it is about getting people to sign up, and part of it is about getting people into/back into the habit of using the Port Mann. Cant make money back with tolls if the bridge is empty.

[Soundy]

Makes sense. Encourages people to fall into the habit of using the bridge, which means that people (once they use their credits) will start spending their own money.

Part of it is about getting people to sign up, and part of it is about getting people into/back into the habit of using the Port Mann. Cant make money back with tolls if the bridge is empty.

And part of it is in the hope that people will have a chance to experience and appreciate the time and fuel savings rather than simply going knee-jerk off to the Patullo and creating the ultimate traffic clusterfuck there.

[Graeme S]

Right. That too.

[Lomac]

Well that sucks. Those free credits were enough to last me an entire year of crossing the bridge. :lol

[mb_]

Just got my decals.. is each decal designated to one car? Have 2 cars in my account

[fliptuner]

The first time you go through with decal A in car 1, the system attaches that decal to that plate. Then the same w/ decal B and car 2.

I said screw it and went into the Coq. office so I could get my stickers right away. 10 minutes for 2 cars = done. I don't particularly like the fact that you have to give them a CC so they can bill directly but that just a preference of mine.

[Hondaracer]

i dont wanna put my sticker on yet cause my windshield is cracked and i dont want to replace it till after christmas :(

[tiger_handheld]

anyone know if the 152nd st on ramp in surrey is going to be permanent 1 lane? Currently it has 3 lanes (2 flowing from 152nd street, and one coming from 108th (JP Automall side)) merging into 1 and it's slow as fcuk!

[fliptuner]

i dont wanna put my sticker on yet cause my windshield is cracked and i dont want to replace it till after christmas :(

You're reg'd anyways so they should just bill you via your plate, no?

Otherwise, rubberband it to the back of your rearview?

[Soundy]

anyone know if the 152nd st on ramp in surrey is going to be permanent 1 lane? Currently it has 3 lanes (2 flowing from 152nd street, and one coming from 108th (JP Automall side)) merging into 1 and it's slow as fcuk!

From what I can tell looking at the drawings, it will eventually be two lanes - one joining the two other "thru" lanes, one joining the separated lane that will lead to the Cape Horn exit.

[GabAlmighty]

Measured my truck and it comes out to 6.1m I'm hoping I don't get charged for a medium vehicle as i'm over the length limit but not the height limit.

[dL]

IMO, they should really begin charging when they finished the entire highway 1 project. Heck, the bridge isn't even completely done yet as they are only opening 4 lanes.

At least it's complimentary for the first 21 trips.

dL

[BlackV62K2]

Jimmies will be rustled if traffic is still backed up like how it is now between 152nd-176. Then add-on paying for a toll on top of that.

[tiger_handheld]

IMO, they should really begin charging when they finished the entire highway 1 project. Heck, the bridge isn't even completely done yet as they are only opening 4 lanes.

At least it's complimentary for the first 21 trips.

dL


how did you get 21 trips for FREE???

[murd0c]

first week is free then the $30 credit and the 1 free trip when you use the bonus code back last week.

[Hondaracer]

The last two weeks 160th on ramp has been - fucked- thank god I don't cross the bridge
Posted via RS Mobile

[Presto]

first week is free then the $30 credit and the 1 free trip when you use the bonus code back last week.

This post:
If anyone wants an extra free trip simply login to your account and apply the promo code REGEB1 on the right side of the page. You can also apply this code when you sign up a new account as well.

[mb_]

Did anyone else NOT put the decal below the rear view? I just put it on and it looks weird lol

[inv4zn]

Got my decal a few days ago...can I put it on side of the window? Doesn't make sense to me that it wouldn't, but thought I'd ask anyway.

I ask because my dashcam is in the middle of the windshield...

http://i.imgur.com/83wwn.jpg

I put mine here. Car's not an odyssey though.

[fliptuner]

Guys, just put it wherever. If it reads, great, if it doesn't, the cameras catch your plate and it still goes to your account.

I'll either stick them on the driver's top or top centre.

[striderblade]

got my decal. errr is the bar code suppose to facing inside the car or outside? cause mine only come with one side sticky side lol

[mb_]

Sticker goes inside the car, bar code facing you. Unless you're XplicitLuder :troll:

[Volvo-brickster]

Just got my decals.. is each decal designated to one car? Have 2 cars in my account

I think it is assigned to a license plate which is really really annoying if you change plates often.

I registered, got my decal, changed plates and went online to change my plate.

It said to delete the car and add again. I followed the instructions and once I did that, it said a new sticker would be sent.

I wonder what will happen when i use my existing sticker with the "old" plate while i wait for the new sticker.

[fliptuner]

I just went ing to reg. 2 more cars and get decals. The office was empty at 930. Apparently there was a long line all day til around 8pm.

[MG1]

........in other news, the almost completed South Fraser Perimeter Road opens December 1, 2012.

Welcome to the South Fraser Perimeter Road (SFPR) Project Website | (http://www.sfprconstruction.ca/)

I might go check it out on Sunday.

[fliptuner]

Measured my truck and it comes out to 6.1m I'm hoping I don't get charged for a medium vehicle as i'm over the length limit but not the height limit.

When I was at Treo earlier I asked about this, since I have an ext, longbox. They said as long as it's a 2 axle light duty truck, w/o trailer, it will be classified as small.

[blkgsr]

........in other news, the almost completed South Fraser Perimeter Road opens December 1, 2012.

Welcome to the South Fraser Perimeter Road (SFPR) Project Website | (http://www.sfprconstruction.ca/)

I might go check it out on Sunday.

not quite:

When will the SFPR be open to traffic?



The project is anticipated to be open to traffic in two phases:


176th Street to 136th Street in Surrey - December 2012

136th Street in Surrey to Deltaport Way in Delta - December 2013

[MG1]

^on Global, they said today (Saturday), albeit whatever is completed so far. <--- did that make grammatical sense?

From the looks of it, it hasn't gone all the way to Delta yet, so only phase one, I guess.

[dL]

So did anyone drive thru the bridge today? Are all 4 lanes accessible now from both ways?

I had to troll but at 12:00am it was still 2 lanes. I thought they said all lanes are open on December 1 :troll: