Tree clearing as part of the Fraser River Tunnel
The Government of B.C. is moving ahead with the Fraser River Tunnel Project, which will see a new toll-free, eight-lane tunnel constructed to replace the aging George Massey Tunnel. The new tunnel will feature a separate, multi-use path, giving people the option of walking or biking to Deas Island directly from Richmond or Delta.
Minimizing impacts to Highway 99 during construction is a top priority. To achieve this, we are building the new, larger crossing next to the existing highway and tunnel. This approach requires tree clearing to create space next to Highway 99.
The Province understands the importance of the trails in Deas Island Regional Park and Millennium Trail in Delta to the people who enjoy the peace and beauty of the area.
An Environmental Assessment is underway to ensure plans are in place to mitigate the project’s impact to surrounding areas.
On Deas Island, the Province is committed to restoring the trails and natural beauty of the Park after the project is completed so the area can be enjoyed for generations to come. The area will be remediated and restored in collaboration with Metro Vancouver.
In Delta, Millennium Trail will operate as it does today after the project is completed. The portion of the trail within the Ministry’s right-of-way will be paved and widened to five metres.
We recognize that building a new tunnel while keeping the existing one open creates disruptions for those who enjoy Deas Island Regional Park and Millennium Trail. Once completed, the tunnel will allow people to continue experiencing the area as they do today — with the highway going under the river.