The $21-million seismic refit of the Mission Bridge on Highway 11 is into its final phase, with work underway to improve the earthquake resistance of the ground and bridge footings in the event of an earthquake.

The first phase of repairs to the Mission Bridge was the structural retrofit. This included almost $12 million in improvements to the superstructure, including column and beam strengthening, concrete reinforcement, a new seismic restraint system, new deck joints and painting of various components.

New cycling railings and cycle approaches valued at $1.5 million were also completed as part of the superstructure improvements.

The final phase of the seismic retrofit is the ground densification work. Kani Foundations Technologies and Fraser River Pile and Dredge Inc. are carrying out the ground strengthening work and installing an earthquake drainage system. Future work includes slope stabilization, which is expected to begin this summer. The entire project is expected to finish in late 2013.

This project will create over 100 jobs during construction, and is part of the ministry's multi-year bridge rehabilitation and maintenance program.

Quotes:

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom -

"The Mission Bridge is an important crossing over the Fraser River, connecting the City of Abbotsford with the District of Mission. This project will create local jobs and ensure the bridge remains safe in the event of an earthquake."

Abbotsford-Mission MLA Randy Hawes -

"Road safety is a priority for our government, and the improvements to Mission Bridge will ensure the safety of local residents, tourists, and other motorists who use this route."

Quick Facts:

• Through a combination of building new bridges and retrofitting existing ones, the ministry continues to seismically upgrade its bridges.
• Since 1992, the ministry has invested approximately $95 million in seismic retrofits and bridge replacements ($80 million in retrofits plus $15 million in capital works).
• All ministry bridges built since 1985 have been designed to meet stringent seismic standards.

Learn More:

To view photos of the Mission Bridge cycle sidewalk, visit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/tranbc/sets/72157627001014819/

Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241