The Voice of Canada News:

The replacement of the Pattullo Bridge, which will make moving across the Fraser River safer for all bridge users, is one step closer to completion.

A request for qualifications (RFQ) has been released to identify a contractor to design, build and finance a new Pattullo Bridge.

The new four-lane crossing will provide improvements for everyone using the bridge, including people who are driving, cycling or walking, as well as communities on either side of the bridge in New Westminster and Surrey.

Opened in 1937, the Pattullo Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in Metro Vancouver. The bridge was designed for a 50-year life, which has been exceeded by 30 years.

The new bridge will have modern, wider lanes, separated by a centre median barrier, and dedicated walking and cycling lanes, separated from traffic by a barrier on both sides of the structure.

As part of a competitive procurement process, the RFQ is an invitation for bidders to submit their qualifications. The RFQ will close in September 2018. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will select up to three respondent teams to participate in the next phase of the competitive selection process, which is the request for proposal stage.

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2019. The new bridge is expected to be open to traffic in 2023. Once the new bridge is open, the existing Pattullo Bridge will be removed.

The Pattullo Bridge Replacement Project will be delivered, owned and operated by the Government of British Columbia.